If you’re searching for an irresistibly tender, richly flavorful centerpiece for your next meal, look no further than this Garlic Butter Herb Beef Tenderloin Recipe. It’s a perfectly balanced dish where succulent beef meets fragrant garlic and fresh herbs, finished with a luscious butter glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You Should Make This Recipe
Unmatched tenderness: Beef tenderloin is one of the most tender cuts, making every bite melt in your mouth.
Elevated flavor profile: The garlic butter infused with fresh rosemary and thyme brings aromatic depth that’s simply divine.
Impresses effortlessly: This recipe looks and tastes like a gourmet dish but is surprisingly straightforward to prepare.
Versatile centerpiece: Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any special dinner that deserves a touch of elegance.
Ingredients & Substitutions
This recipe shines because it uses a few simple, high-quality ingredients that each play a vital role: the beef delivers richness and texture; garlic and herbs provide a fresh, fragrant punch; and butter adds that indulgent finish that makes it all come together beautifully.
- Beef tenderloin roast: The star of the show—choose a fresh 4 to 4½-pound cut for perfect serving size and tenderness.
- Softened butter: Acts as the carrier for flavors and helps lock in juiciness.
- Garlic cloves: Minced fresh to provide that pungent, irresistible aroma and flavor.
- Fresh rosemary and thyme: These herbs give the dish a woodsy, earthy freshness that complements the beef so well.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors.
- Olive oil: For browning the beef to create a flavorful crust before roasting.
How to Make Garlic Butter Herb Beef Tenderloin Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Take your beef tenderloin out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature, about 1 to 2 hours. This step is crucial to ensure even cooking and a juicy interior that’s tender from edge to edge.
Step 2: Mix the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, combine softened butter with freshly minced garlic and finely chopped rosemary and thyme. This flavorful butter mixture will create an incredible aroma and tenderize the beef while roasting.
Step 3: Prepare the Beef for Searing
Slice the tenderloin in half if needed, trim away any silver skin, and tie the roast with kitchen twine for even cooking. Pat the beef dry with paper towels, then generously season with salt and freshly ground pepper on all sides.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Brown the tenderloin on all sides, about 10 minutes total, until you achieve a rich, golden crust that locks in those flavorful juices.
Step 5: Roast with Herb Butter
Spread the garlic herb butter mixture all over the top of the seared beef, then transfer the pan to a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness, ideally using a probe thermometer for precision.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 to 15 minutes—this step is key for juicy slices. Then, remove the twine and carve into 1-inch thick pieces to serve.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Herb Beef Tenderloin Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme make a beautiful garnish and echo the herb flavors infused in the beef. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving can also elevate the dish’s texture and flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
Serve this garlic butter herb beef tenderloin alongside buttery mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. These sides balance richness and add vibrant colors to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange slices of the tenderloin fanned out on a large wooden board, garnished with herb sprigs and roasted garlic cloves. Pair with small bowls of horseradish sauce or Dijon mustard for guests to personalize their bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover slices tightly with aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container, then store in the refrigerator. Enjoy within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
Freezing
If you want to keep leftovers longer, slice and freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. When stored properly, the beef tenderloin stays delicious for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a low oven (around 275°F or 135°C), wrapped in foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, warm slices quickly on a skillet over low heat, adding a pat of butter to freshen up the flavor and texture.
FAQs
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What’s the best way to check doneness for this beef tenderloin?
The most foolproof method is using a meat thermometer. Aim for about 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Remember that the temperature will rise slightly while resting, so pull the roast from the oven just before it reaches your target.
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Can I prepare the garlic butter herb mix ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the herb butter up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully for even richer taste.
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What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried rosemary and thyme can be used when fresh herbs aren’t available—but use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh will always give the brightest flavor, though!
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Is it necessary to let the beef rest after roasting?
Yes! Resting allows the juices inside the meat to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy final bite. Cutting right away leads to precious juices running out and a drier texture.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Garlic Butter Herb Beef Tenderloin Recipe enough if you want to turn an everyday meal into something truly special. It’s easy to make, full of vibrant flavors, and perfect for creating memorable gatherings. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with its warmth and elegance in every succulent bite!
Print
Garlic Butter Herb Beef Tenderloin Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 52 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin recipe features a perfectly seared and oven-roasted beef tenderloin topped with a flavorful herb and garlic butter mixture. Ideal for special occasions or a decadent dinner, this dish combines the tenderness of premium beef with aromatic rosemary, thyme, and garlic to create an impressively juicy and savory centerpiece.
Ingredients
Beef Tenderloin
- 1 beef tenderloin roast, 4 to 4 ½ pounds
Garlic Herb Butter
- 6 tablespoons softened butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
Seasoning & Cooking
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Bring Beef to Room Temperature: Remove the beef tenderloin from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, finely chopped rosemary, and thyme. Mix well and set aside.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Beef: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice the beef tenderloin in half lengthwise if necessary, trim any excess fat, and tie it with butcher’s twine for even shape and cooking.
- Season Beef: Pat the beef dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear all sides until a deep brown crust forms, about 10 minutes total.
- Apply Herb Butter and Roast: Spread the garlic herb butter mixture evenly on top of the seared beef. If you have a probe thermometer, insert it into the center. Transfer the pan with the beef to the preheated oven and roast for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 to 15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Remove the twine, then slice the beef into 1-inch thick pieces and serve.
Notes
- Beef tenderloin is best served immediately after the resting period for optimal juiciness.
- Use a sharp knife when slicing to ensure clean cuts and preserve the meat’s texture.
- For deeper flavor, you can season the beef with salt and pepper up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it before cooking.
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