Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast

Beef tenderloin is the epitome of elegance and luxury in the world of roasts. When combined with a rich herb butter, this cut of beef becomes an even more spectacular dish, perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a truly indulgent dinner. The Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast is tender, juicy, and packed with bold flavors from fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, alongside the savory richness of garlic-infused butter. It’s an ideal centerpiece that will have everyone at the table raving.

This recipe is surprisingly simple, requiring only a few ingredients to achieve an incredibly delicious result. The key to the perfect beef tenderloin roast is in the seasoning, and this herb butter mixture is everything. As the roast cooks, the butter melts into the meat, creating a rich, flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a special meal for two, this roast will always impress with its depth of flavor and sophisticated presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Tender and Juicy Meat

Beef tenderloin is known for being one of the most tender cuts of beef, and with this herb butter rub, it stays juicy and flavorful from edge to edge.

2. Simple Ingredients

The recipe uses only a few basic ingredients—beef, butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and salt—making it both affordable and easy to prepare.

3. Perfect for Special Occasions

Whether it’s a holiday meal, anniversary, or birthday dinner, this roast is sure to be the star of any occasion. It looks impressive and tastes even better.

4. Quick and Easy Preparation

With just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require much hands-on effort. Simply season, roast, and let the oven do the work.

5. Versatile Flavor Profile

The garlic, rosemary, and thyme combination adds a depth of flavor that complements the beef beautifully, making this roast a crowd-pleaser for various tastes.

Ingredients

• Beef tenderloin roast (3 to 4 pounds)
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh rosemary (chopped)
• Fresh thyme (chopped)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Variations

• Add Dijon Mustard: Mix in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard with the herb butter for a subtle tang and extra depth of flavor.
• Crispy Crust: For an even crispier crust, rub the beef with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese before roasting.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the herb butter for a spicy twist.
• Herb Blend: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano, parsley, or tarragon to change the flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring it’s hot and ready for roasting.

Step 2: Prepare the Herb Butter

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Season the Roast

Rub the herb butter mixture all over the beef tenderloin roast. Make sure to coat the entire surface of the roast for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Roast the Beef

Place the prepared beef tenderloin in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the roast reaches your desired level of doneness (use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy: 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, and 140°F for medium).

Step 5: Rest the Roast

Once done, remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

After the resting period, slice the beef tenderloin into thick, even slices and serve. Pair with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Room Temperature Beef: Let the beef tenderloin sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to track the internal temperature of the roast. This ensures you get the exact doneness you prefer.
• Basting: Baste the beef with its own juices halfway through roasting for added moisture and flavor.
• Resting is Key: Always allow the meat to rest after roasting to ensure it stays juicy when sliced.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme give the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch—just use half the amount.

How to Serve

This Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast is perfect for a holiday feast or any special meal. Serve it with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It pairs beautifully with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, which complements the richness of the beef and the herb butter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover beef, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to preserve its tenderness.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover beef tenderloin for up to 2 months. Wrap the beef tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or a freezer bag. When ready to serve, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.

Reheating

To reheat, place the beef slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. Avoid overcooking to preserve the meat’s tenderness.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

While beef tenderloin is ideal for this recipe, you can also use a rib-eye roast or sirloin roast, although these cuts may not be as tender.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the herb butter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also season the roast and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking.

3. How do I know when my beef is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For rare, aim for 120°F, for medium-rare, aim for 130°F, and for medium, aim for 140°F.

4. Can I cook the beef at a lower temperature?

If you prefer a slower roast, you can cook the beef at a lower temperature, such as 350°F (175°C), but it will take longer to reach your desired doneness.

5. What should I do if I don’t have fresh herbs?

If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried rosemary and thyme. Use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

6. How can I make this roast spicier?

For a spicier version, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the herb butter mixture.

7. Can I cook the beef in a slow cooker?

While a slow cooker can be used for tougher cuts, it’s not ideal for tenderloin. Beef tenderloin is best roasted in the oven to maintain its tenderness and flavor.

8. How long should I let the roast rest after cooking?

Let the beef rest for at least 10 minutes after roasting. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.

9. Can I cook this roast without garlic?

If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can skip it or replace it with another seasoning like onion powder or shallots.

10. Can I make this recipe with a smaller roast?

Yes, you can adjust the cooking time based on the size of the roast. For smaller cuts, reduce the cooking time accordingly, but always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.

Conclusion

The Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast is the perfect dish for a celebratory meal. With its juicy, tender meat and rich, flavorful herb butter, this roast is sure to impress everyone at your table. Easy to prepare, quick to cook, and versatile enough for a variety of sides, it’s an elegant centerpiece that will make any meal feel special. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply indulging in a fine meal, this roast will always be a crowd-pleaser.

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