Beef Tenderloin Roast

While cooking a 5-pound beef tenderloin roast might seem intimidating, our straightforward recipe proves it’s simpler than you think. This five-ingredient dish transforms a lean cut of beef into a showstopping main course that will feed a dozen people.

The best part? Not only is it ready in under an hour, but this roast recipe is also highly customizable, allowing you to tailor the flavors to your preference.

Ingredients for Beef Tenderloin Roast

• Beef tenderloin: The star of the show, beef tenderloin is a lean and tender cut of meat prized for its buttery texture.
• Olive oil: Olive oil helps the seasoning adhere to the meat and promotes even browning in the oven.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds its characteristic pungency that beautifully complements the richness of the tenderloin.
• Sea salt and ground pepper: Sea salt enhances the natural flavors of the beef and aids in creating a flavorful crust, while coarsely ground pepper provides a slight kick and texture to the beef tenderloin roast.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the tenderloin

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Place the beef tenderloin on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.

Step 2: Season the tenderloin

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt and coarsely ground pepper. Rub this mixture all over the beef tenderloin till it’s coated evenly.

Step 3: Roast the tenderloin

Roast the beef tenderloin until it reaches your desired doneness, 45 to 65 minutes, depending on the size of the roast and your preference. Once it’s done, remove the beef from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Editor’s Tip: For a medium-rare roast, aim for an internal temperature of 135°; for medium, 140°; and for medium-well, 145°.

Beef Tenderloin Roast Variations

• Give it an herb crust: Add finely chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme and parsley to the garlic rub to add an aromatic and flavorful twist to this roasted beef tenderloin.
• Wrap it in bacon: Give the roast its own marbling layer by wrapping the seasoned tenderloin in bacon slices before putting it in the oven.
• Amp up the spice: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the rub to give this beef tenderloin roast a subtle kick.
• Baste it with wine: Baste the roast with red wine as it cooks for a richer flavor. Alternatively, you can serve it with a red wine reduction, balsamic glaze or creamy horseradish sauce for added flavor.

How to Store Beef Tenderloin Roast

Store leftovers of roasted beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To maintain the roast’s juiciness, slice only what you plan to eat and store the remaining roast whole.

Can you freeze roast beef tenderloin?

Yes, you can freeze beef tenderloin roast. Wrap the cooked meat tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag and freeze it for up to two months.

Beef Tenderloin Roast Tips

Why is my beef tenderloin tough?

Overcooking usually results in tough beef tenderloin, as it’s a lean cut of meat. The lack of fat marbling means overcooking it will leave you with meat that’s tough and chewy, and it’s also why you can’t use lean cuts of meat to create a melt-in-your-mouth pot roast in the slow cooker.

Check the internal temperature of your roast using an instant-read thermometer to ensure you’ve achieved just the right length of cook time. While it may be tempting to cut into it right out of the oven, let the meat rest for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the juices to reabsorb, so you’re left with a tender roast.

Is beef tenderloin the same as filet mignon?

Beef tenderloin and filet mignon are not the same, although they are related—the filet mignon is actually a very small part of the whole tenderloin. The tenderloin can be sold whole or divided into different cuts. The filet is the most tender part of the tenderloin, but there’s a tradeoff in flavor. To make up for it, filet is often served with rich accompaniments, like a savory sauce or bacon and mushrooms.

Should you sear beef tenderloin before roasting?

You do not have to sear this beef tenderloin roast, although you certainly can. You’ll find that many recipes call for searing as a first step to boost the flavor.

What are the best side dishes to serve with beef tenderloin roast?

Beef tenderloin pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad. For a more decadent meal, serve it with buttery lobster tails for a classic surf and turf.