If you’re searching for a show-stopping centerpiece that will earn you endless compliments this holiday season, the Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish perfectly balances tender, juicy beef with a savory, garlicky breadcrumb stuffing that fills every bite with flavor and tradition. Its rich aroma and elegant presentation make it a festive crowd-pleaser, ideal for gathering loved ones around the table and creating delicious holiday memories.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients is the first step toward crafting your unforgettable holiday meal. Each component plays a vital role in delivering a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that makes this stuffed beef tenderloin truly stand out.
- Plain breadcrumbs (10 oz, about 2 cups): Provide the hearty base for the flavorful stuffing and a wonderful texture contrast to the tender beef.
- Minced garlic (2 tablespoons): Adds a warm, aromatic punch that enhances the overall seasoning of the stuffing.
- Large onion, chopped: Offers a subtle sweetness and moisture to keep the stuffing rich yet balanced.
- Melted unsalted butter (1 cup): Imparts luscious richness and helps bind the stuffing ingredients together perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (1 1/2 cups): Introduces a fresh, vibrant green color and bright herbal notes to the stuffing.
- Beef tenderloin roast (4 to 6 pounds): The star of the show, this premium cut promises tender, succulent slices that melt in your mouth.
- Salt (2 teaspoons): Essential for seasoning, drawing out the deep flavors of the beef and stuffing alike.
- Ground black pepper (2 teaspoons): Adds a gentle heat and depth to the overall profile without overpowering the other ingredients.
How to Make Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them until they become soft and fragrant. Then, mix in the plain breadcrumbs and chopped fresh parsley, stirring well to combine. This blend forms a flavorful stuffing that’s moist and aromatic, ready to complement the rich beef perfectly.
Step 2: Prep the Beef Tenderloin
Take your beef tenderloin roast and carefully slice it lengthwise without cutting all the way through, creating a large “butterfly” shape. This allows you to spread the stuffing evenly inside. Season the beef generously on both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance its natural flavors before layering the stuffing.
Step 3: Stuff and Roll the Beef
Spread the breadcrumb stuffing evenly over the opened beef tenderloin. Once covered, tightly roll the beef back into its original shape, securing it with kitchen twine or skewers to hold everything in place during roasting. This rolling technique ensures every slice contains delicious stuffing, making every bite a festive delight.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed tenderloin on a roasting rack in a shallow pan and roast for approximately 45 to 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness. Rest the beef for about 15 minutes before slicing to lock in those irresistible juices.
How to Serve Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the visual appeal and flavor, garnish this dish with sprigs of fresh parsley or rosemary for a holiday-inspired touch. Bright pomegranate seeds also add a festive pop of color and a slight tartness that complements the beef beautifully.
Side Dishes
This rich and hearty beef pairs wonderfully with classic holiday sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a fresh arugula salad tossed with balsamic vinaigrette. These sides provide a lovely balance of creaminess, earthiness, and brightness that enhance the overall meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving the stuffed beef tenderloin on a large wooden carving board adds rustic charm, perfect for a warm family gathering. Consider slicing it into medallions at the table, so guests can see the beautiful swirl of stuffing inside. For an extra festive feel, arrange the slices around a bed of sautéed greens with a drizzle of pan jus or red wine reduction.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your feast, wrap any leftover stuffed beef tenderloin tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, it will keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy the holiday flavors again without reheating the entire roast.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish well in advance, freezing is a great option. Once stuffed and rolled, wrap the beef tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, then thawed overnight in the fridge before roasting.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the slices in a low oven (around 275°F / 135°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave slices briefly, covering to keep moisture. Avoid overheating to maintain the tender texture and rich flavors of the beef and stuffing.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While the recipe is designed around beef tenderloin because of its tenderness and size, you can try a boneless ribeye or sirloin roast. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking times as these cuts vary in thickness and fat content.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the stuffing?
Absolutely! You can swap the breadcrumbs stuffing for a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, onions, and herbs bound together with a bit of cream cheese or goat cheese. This will add moisture and a robust flavor that complements the beef well.
How do I know when the beef tenderloin is done?
Using a meat thermometer is your best bet. Aim for about 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, which will continue to cook slightly while resting. This ensures juicy, tender meat without overcooking.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed tenderloin the day before roasting. Keep it well wrapped in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
What wine pairs best with stuffed beef tenderloin?
A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or a robust Syrah will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the beef and the savory stuffing, elevating your holiday meal to a new level.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the secret to the Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Recipe, it’s time to bring this impressive yet surprisingly simple dish to your holiday table. The combination of juicy beef and flavorful stuffing makes every bite an absolute joy. Trust me, once you try it, this will become your go-to Christmas feast that everyone asks for year after year.
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Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is a festive and flavorful centerpiece perfect for holiday celebrations. Tender and juicy beef tenderloin is generously stuffed with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, onions, butter, and fresh parsley, then seasoned and roasted to perfection. The dish delivers a rich, aromatic taste with a delightful texture, making it an impressive yet approachable recipe for any Christmas dinner.
Ingredients
Stuffing
- 1 can plain breadcrumbs (10 oz, approximately 2 cups)
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped (around 1 1/2 cups)
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 beef tenderloin roast (4 to 6 pounds)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the plain breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped onion, melted unsalted butter, and finely chopped fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a moist and flavorful stuffing.
- Prepare the beef tenderloin: Carefully butterfly the beef tenderloin roast by slicing it lengthwise to create a flat surface large enough to hold the stuffing. Lay the tenderloin open on a clean surface.
- Fill and roll the tenderloin: Spread the prepared stuffing mixture evenly over the inside surface of the butterflied tenderloin. Gently roll the meat back into its original shape enclosing the stuffing inside.
- Season the roast: Rub the outside of the rolled tenderloin with the salt and ground black pepper to enhance the flavor and create a savory crust during roasting.
- Roast the beef: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed beef tenderloin on a roasting pan or rack. Roast in the oven for approximately 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches about 135°F (57°C) for medium rare, adjusting time based on thickness and desired doneness.
- Rest and serve: Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice the tenderloin into thick pieces to reveal the delicious stuffed center, then serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure to let the roasted tenderloin rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your desired doneness, especially for a special occasion like Christmas.
- The stuffing mixture can be prepared a few hours in advance or even the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
- Adjust seasoning if needed; you can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional aroma.
- Butter or oil the roasting pan lightly to prevent sticking and help in browning.
