Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin

Name: Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole beef tenderloin (3-4 pounds); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 25 min

🍽 Serves: 6

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If you're looking for a show-stopping entrée that's surprisingly easy to prepare, this Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin is your ticket to culinary glory. With a fragrant blend of fresh herbs and a perfectly cooked, tender interior, it’s perfect for any special occasion or family gathering.

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Ingredients for Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin

The star of the show is the beef tenderloin, renowned for its tenderness and rich flavor. A good trim will remove any excess fat or silver skin, ensuring even cooking. Olive oil acts as a binder for the herbs and adds a touch of richness. The garlic introduces a savory depth, while fresh rosemary and thyme offer a fragrant, earthy aroma. Salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors of the beef, and a hint of Dijon mustard rounds out the crust with a subtle tang.

Tips & Tricks

Let the beef come to room temperature before cooking for even roasting.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Resting the meat is crucial for juicy results — don’t skip it!

Serving Suggestions

This herb-crusted beef tenderloin pairs beautifully with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus. A rich, red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the savory flavors of the beef, making for a perfect dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?: Yes, but use half the amount, as dried herbs are more potent.
How can I tell if the beef is medium-rare without a thermometer?: If you don’t have a thermometer, a good indicator is the color and firmness of the meat. It should feel similar to the fleshy part of your hand below the thumb when you make a loose fist.
Can I prepare the tenderloin ahead of time?: You can season the beef up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to roast.

Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C) — this high temperature will help create a beautiful crust on your tenderloin. While the oven heats up, take a moment to trim your beef tenderloin. Remove any excess fat and the silvery membrane called the silver skin. You want a nice, clean piece of meat ready to absorb all those delicious flavors.

Now, grab a small bowl and mix your minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This is your flavor powerhouse. Next, take your trimmed tenderloin and rub it all over with olive oil. This helps the herb mixture stick and adds a lovely richness.

With your herb mixture ready, press it firmly onto the oiled surface of the beef. You want an even coating so every bite is packed with flavor. Once your tenderloin is seasoned to perfection, place it on a roasting rack set inside a shallow pan. This setup ensures even roasting.

Pop the tenderloin in your preheated oven and roast it for about 20-25 minutes. For medium-rare, you're looking for an internal temperature of about 135°F (57°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Once done, let the beef rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your meat moist and tender. Finally, slice and serve. Enjoy the applause!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Simple preparation with impressive results.
Uses fresh, aromatic herbs to enhance flavor.
The tenderloin remains juicy and succulent.
Perfect for dinner parties or holiday meals.
Minimal ingredients with maximum impact.

Ingredients

1 whole beef tenderloin (3-4 pounds)

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).

2. Trim the beef tenderloin of any excess fat and silver skin.

3. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

4. Rub olive oil over the entire surface of the tenderloin.

5. Spread the garlic-herb mixture evenly over the beef, pressing it onto the surface.

6. Place the tenderloin on a roasting rack in a shallow pan.

7. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.