I have to tell you, this roasted garlic butter beef tenderloin recipe stole the show at our dinner table. The tenderloin is so rich and flavorful with a perfect balance between the buttery crust and tender, juicy center.
While making it, the aroma of roasted garlic and rosemary filled my kitchen, promising something truly special. And oh, that creamy sauce served on the side? Pure bliss. If you’re looking to make an impression, this recipe is everything you need.
Credit: primaverakitchen
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this stunning beef tenderloin along with a few tips to perfect it.
- 1.5 lbs beef tenderloin roast – Opt for fresh, high-quality meat; this cut is prized for its tenderness.
- Salt and pepper – Generously season to bring out the meat’s natural flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Aids in searing the beef for a golden crust.
- 1 tablespoon butter – Helps achieve that perfect, flavorful sear on the meat.
- A handful of garlic cloves – These will roast alongside the beef and contribute to the cream sauce.
- 3–4 sprigs of fresh rosemary – Adds robust, earthy notes that pair perfectly with beef.
- 1/3 cup broth or wine – Customize for your dish; wine offers depth while broth keeps it aromatic.
Garlic Butter
- 6 tablespoons butter, softened – Ensures even distribution over the beef.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic – Freshly minced garlic packs the most flavor.
- ½ teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
- ½ teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme
Cream Sauce (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/3 cup broth
- 1/3 cup heavy cream – For decadence and silkiness in the sauce.
- Salt and pepper – Adjust to taste.
Note: The recipe serves approximately six, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings.
Variations
Want to make this recipe your own? Try these twists on the classic preparation!
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with a vegan alternative and use coconut cream for the sauce.
- Herb Swap: Substitute rosemary and thyme with sage or parsley for a different aroma.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your broth or wine labels.
- Spiced-Up Version: Add a sprinkle of red chili flakes to the garlic butter for a hint of heat.
You can also enjoy similar beef recipes like Beef Drunken Noodles for a flavorful twist.
Cooking Time
Here’s the breakdown of how long you’ll be in the kitchen:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Equipment You Need
To make this recipe a breeze, gather these tools ahead of time.
- Cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan – Creates the perfect sear and transitions seamlessly into the oven.
- Sharp knife – Essential for trimming the tenderloin and precise slicing.
- Meat thermometer – Ensures your beef reaches the perfect doneness.
- Mixing bowl – For blending the garlic butter.
How to Make Roasted Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin?
Prepare the Garlic Butter
Start by making the star ingredient of the dish – the garlic butter. Combine softened butter with minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme in a small bowl. Mash it together until smooth and set it aside. Trust me, this mixture takes the flavor of the tenderloin to a whole new level.
Prep the Tenderloin
Before anything goes on the heat, preheat your oven to 425°F. Pat your beef dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture, and then coat it with olive oil. Generously season with salt and pepper on all sides. This seasoning acts as a flavor foundation.
Sear the Beef for a Gorgeous Crust
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat, add butter and a bit of olive oil, and wait until they sizzle. Lay the beef tenderloin into the pan, and sear each side until beautifully browned. This step locks in those rich juices and builds a lovely caramelized crust.
Coat with Garlic Butter
With the tenderloin still in the skillet, spoon the garlic butter over the top. It doesn’t need to be perfect because the butter melts and spreads as it roasts. Around the beef, add garlic cloves, rosemary sprigs, and a splash of broth or wine for moisture.
Roast to Tender Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the oven and allow the tenderloin to roast for 20–25 minutes. Use your meat thermometer to check doneness – 135°F is ideal for a pink center. Once fully cooked, remove it from the oven and rest for ten minutes (this ensures the juices evenly redistribute).
Make the Cream Sauce
While the beef rests, prepare the optional cream sauce. Roast the garlic cloves in the skillet, lightly smash them, and combine with butter, broth, and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir until reduced and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper before drizzling over the sliced beef.
Credit: lecremedelacrumb
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Based on my experience, these tips make all the difference when preparing this recipe!
- For an extra crispy crust, sear the beef longer on each side, making sure it doesn’t burn.
- Want foolproof tenderness? Always use a meat thermometer and avoid guessing doneness.
- If you’re cooking for a crowd, double the recipe but keep the cooking time similar (check doneness after the usual roasting period).
- Don’t skip the resting time! It’s essential for retaining the meat’s juiciness.
- Feel free to use vegetable or chicken broth instead of wine if you prefer not to cook with alcohol.
How to Serve Roasted Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin?
The best way to serve this is on a large platter that allows you to showcase the beautiful slices of beef. Layer the slices slightly overlapped, surrounded by the roasted garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs for a rustic, elegant presentation. The cream sauce can be served on the side or lightly drizzled on top for an indulgent touch.
Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, fluffy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. For more hearty beef dishes, check out this classic Beef Bourguignon.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving, so you can enjoy guilt-free.
- Calories: 412
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 35g
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can make the garlic butter up to two days in advance. Store it in the fridge and use it when ready.
- Storage: Keep leftover beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: Freeze slices of cooked beef for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat slices in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Curious why this beef tenderloin is worth trying? Here’s what makes it special.
- Impressive Yet Simple: Despite its elegant presentation, the recipe is approachable for any home cook.
- Unbeatable Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and butter makes for a steakhouse-quality meal.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or holiday feast, this dish shines.
- Customizable: The optional cream sauce and seasoning choices give you flexibility.
This roasted garlic butter beef tenderloin takes your meal to the next level with its rich flavors and simple execution. Whether you’re hosting a festive occasion or enjoying a quiet dinner, you’ll be coming back to this recipe time and time again! For more inspiration, explore our collection of Beef Recipes.