How To Cook Beef Tenderloin Perfectly
Now that you’re fully equipped – let’s get cooking. This beef tenderloin is truly a cinch to make. But first, let the beef tenderloin come to room temperature prior to cooking (about 1 to 2 hours). Then preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Make the herbed butter mixture. Stir together the softened butter, herbs, and minced garlic in a bowl and set aside.
Trim and cut the tenderloin. When you buy a whole beef tenderloin from the butcher it usually comes in this very long, oblong shape. Make sure the silverskin is trimmed off (you or your butcher can do this), tuck the thin end under (so that it’s more uniform in thickness), and then cut it in half (so it’ll fit in the pan).
Tie it up for even cooking. This part is really important. You must tie up your beef tenderloin for even cooking. Watch the video below to see how I tie up the tenderloin with kitchen twine (it’s really easy!). But you can also ask the butcher to do this.
Season the tenderloin. Use paper towels to pat out any excess moisture from the tenderloin. Then season both sides with salt and pepper.
Sear the tenderloin. Heat the oil in your cast iron pan until it’s shimmering. Then add the beef tenderloin and brown for a few minutes on each side (about 10 minutes total), creating that deliciously looking golden crust.
It’s roasting time! Slather the herbed butter mixture over the top side of the beef tenderloin, then transfer the entire pan to the oven. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, or until your preferred level of doneness (which you can reference in the chart below).
Let it rest before slicing! Transfer the tenderloin to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This will help the juices slowly redistribute throughout the meat making it extra tender and juicy! Then remove the twine and slice into 1-inch thick pieces.
How Long To Cook Beef Tenderloin In Oven
Since we’re searing the beef tenderloin first and letting it sit at the end for residual cooking, the roasting time is fairly short. I’m cooking a 4-pound tenderloin, which only needs 15 to 20 minutes for a perfect medium-rare. If you want a medium doneness, just cook it a couple of minutes more. But don’t guess on time (especially as all ovens cook differently). Use a thermometer for the perfect doneness!
Should you sear beef tenderloin before roasting?
FAQ
Should you sear tenderloin before cooking?
Which cooking method is best for beef tenderloin?
Is it better to cook a beef tenderloin slow or fast?