The Best Ever Beef Tenderloin is all about tender, juicy beef cooked just right to highlight its natural flavor. This cut is beautifully lean yet soft, making every bite melt in your mouth. Simple seasoning brings out the rich taste, so the beef itself really shines.
I love making this when I want something special without spending all day in the kitchen. A quick sear and oven roast are all you need, and it turns out perfectly every time. I always find that letting the meat rest a bit after cooking makes it even more tender and juicy.
Serving the tenderloin with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad makes for a wonderful meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser at dinner parties or family gatherings because it feels fancy but is so easy to prepare. Whenever I make this, people keep asking for seconds—and I don’t blame them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Tenderloin: This cut is prized for tenderness and mild flavor. If you can’t find whole tenderloin, filet mignon steaks work well for individual servings. For a budget-friendly option, try ribeye or strip loin.
Olive Oil & Butter: Olive oil helps the herbs stick and starts browning, while butter adds rich flavor. You can swap olive oil for avocado or canola oil. Using ghee or plant-based butter works if you want dairy-free.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary give a nice earthy aroma. If you only have dried herbs, use about a third of the amount since they are more concentrated. Oregano or sage can be good alternatives if you want a slightly different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a pungent kick. Garlic powder can work in a pinch but fresh is best for the vibrant taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Medium-Rare Finish on My Beef Tenderloin?
Timing and temperature are key for tenderloin. Here’s what works for me:
- Bring to Room Temperature: Let the beef sit out 30-45 minutes before cooking. It cooks more evenly this way.
- Sear Over High Heat: Get your pan very hot before searing all sides. This creates the tasty crust you want.
- Oven-Roast Gently: Finish the cooking in a 425°F oven. Use a meat thermometer to watch for 125°F internal temp for medium-rare.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, tent the meat loosely with foil and rest 10-15 minutes. This keeps juices locked inside.
Following these steps, you’ll get a tenderloin with a juicy, pink middle and a dark, flavorful crust every time. And don’t rush the resting — that’s where the magic happens!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Ovenproof skillet or cast iron pan – perfect for searing and then finishing the beef in the oven without extra dishes.
- Meat thermometer – helps you cook the tenderloin to your preferred doneness with ease and accuracy.
- Tongs – great for turning the beef without piercing it and losing juices.
- Cutting board – a sturdy board is best for resting and slicing the tenderloin cleanly.
- Aluminum foil – to tent the meat while it rests and keep it warm without drying out.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try a spice rub with smoked paprika and cumin for a warm, smoky twist on the classic herb crust.
- Top the beef with a blue cheese butter melt for a creamy, tangy flavor contrast after resting.
- Wrap the tenderloin in prosciutto before searing for a salty, crispy outer layer and extra flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions as a side or topping to bring earthiness and sweetness.
Best Ever Beef Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (3 to 4-pound) whole beef tenderloin, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 45 minutes for preparation and cooking combined, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for resting. You’ll spend a few minutes seasoning and searing the tenderloin, then roast it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes depending on the size. Resting ensures juicy, tender results, so don’t skip it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Take the beef tenderloin out of the fridge 30 to 45 minutes before cooking to let it come to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season the Tenderloin:
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels, then rub this herb mixture evenly all over the beef.
3. Sear the Beef:
Heat a large ovenproof skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Carefully sear the tenderloin on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side, turning with tongs. This creates a delicious crust.
4. Roast and Finish:
Place the skillet with the beef in the preheated oven. Roast until the inside temperature reaches about 125°F (51°C) for medium-rare, which usually takes 20-25 minutes. Remove from oven, add butter to the pan, and baste the tenderloin by spooning melted butter over it.
5. Rest and Serve:
Move the beef to a cutting board and loosely cover with foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes so the juices settle. Slice the tenderloin into thick rounds, drizzle with pan juices, garnish with fresh rosemary if you like, and serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly cooked, tender and juicy beef tenderloin!
Can I Use Frozen Beef Tenderloin for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours before cooking. Thawing slowly helps maintain texture and flavor. Always bring it to room temperature for 30-45 minutes before cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Beef Tenderloin?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to keep the meat tender and juicy.
Can I Cook the Tenderloin to a Different Doneness?
Absolutely! For medium, aim for an internal temperature of about 135°F (57°C), and for medium-well, around 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check and remove the beef slightly before your target temp, as it will continue to cook while resting.
What Should I Serve with This Beef Tenderloin?
This tenderloin pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. A simple pan sauce or chimichurri can also add a nice flavor boost.
