Herbed Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe

If you’re looking to impress your guests or just treat yourself to something truly special, this Herbed Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe is absolutely the way to go. I promise, this recipe is fan-freaking-tastic – it combines juicy, tender beef with a flavorful garlic herb butter that melts perfectly over each bite. When you first make this, you’ll notice how the simple ingredients truly elevate the dish to something extraordinary, making it ideal for Christmas dinner or any celebration where you want to bring your A-game.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Herbed Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe is carefully chosen to bring out the best flavors. The fresh herbs blend beautifully with the butter and garlic, while the beef tenderloin itself is the star of the show—lean, tender, and perfect for roasting.

• Beef Tenderloin Roast: Look for a center-cut roast that’s trimmed and tied if possible; that’s the best cut for tenderness.
• Kosher Salt: It seasons evenly; I always keep this handy for proper seasoning.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and depth.
• Avocado Oil: Great for high-heat searing without smoking up your kitchen.
• Butter (softened): This forms the creamy base of the herb butter – make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Garlic Cloves (minced): Fresh garlic is a must here for that punch of rich aroma and flavor.
• Fresh Rosemary: Provides a piney, earthy fragrance that complements beef wonderfully.
• Fresh Thyme: Adds a subtle woodsy note that rounds out the herb butter.

Variations

I love making this Herbed Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe my own by switching up the herbs or playing with the butter flavors. Don’t hesitate to get creative based on what you have or what your family prefers!

• Herb Swap: I sometimes swap rosemary and thyme for sage and tarragon, which adds a whole new dimension to the flavor, especially around fall.
• Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes into the butter mix is a fun way to add a little heat without overpowering the beef.
• Dairy-Free Option: I’ve successfully used vegan butter or olive oil with minced garlic and herbs for a dairy-free twist that’s just as delicious.

How to Make Herbed Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Step 1: Bring Tenderloin to Room Temperature

This is a game-changer—I always take my beef tenderloin out of the fridge at least 1 to 2 hours before cooking. It ensures even cooking and helps you get that perfect crust without overcooking the inside. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any moisture; this step is key for a great sear.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter

Mix softened butter with freshly minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme in a small bowl. This fragrant mixture will coat your tenderloin and infuse every bite with rich, herby flavor. I like to set this aside while heating the oven and prepping the beef.

Step 3: Sear the Beef Tenderloin

Heat avocado oil in a heavy skillet (I swear by my cast iron) over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the beef on all sides until it’s a beautiful golden brown crust, about 10 minutes total. This locks in the juices and adds incredible flavor.

Step 4: Roast the Tenderloin with Herb Butter

Slather the garlic herb butter over the top of the seared beef and transfer the pan to your preheated 425°F oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes, depending on whether you prefer medium-rare or medium. A meat thermometer is your best buddy here: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.

Step 5: Let it Rest and Slice

This part is crucial. Transfer the beef to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, so when you slice, the meat stays juicy and tender instead of drying out. Remove the twine and slice into 1-inch pieces — serve immediately with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Herbed Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Garnishes

For garnishes, I usually keep it simple – a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme leaves on top for a fresh look and aroma. A dollop of horseradish sauce on the side adds a nice tangy contrast to the rich beef and butter.

Side Dishes

My go-tos are creamy mashed potatoes or roasted garlic Parmesan asparagus – both soak up the buttery goodness perfectly. Roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips or a crisp green salad are fantastic lighter options that balance the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays, I like serving the tenderloin on a wooden carving board surrounded by fresh sprigs of herbs and roasted garlic heads. It creates a rustic, inviting presentation that guests love. You can also slice the beef and fan the pieces on a platter with the herb butter drizzled on top for a restaurant-style touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Before storing, I like to spoon any remaining herbed butter over the meat to keep it moist and flavorful overnight.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked beef tenderloin slices, but I recommend wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

I reheat leftover slices gently in a low oven (about 275°F) wrapped in foil so they warm through without drying out. You can also add a bit of the leftover garlic herb butter on top before reheating to keep things moist and flavorful.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Herbed Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it balances simplicity with that wow-factor we all want when cooking special meals. Whether it’s Christmas dinner or a birthday, it’s become my go-to recipe to wow friends and family without fuss. Give it a try, follow the steps, and I promise you’ll feel like a kitchen rockstar. Happy cooking!

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