Filet of Beef: A Deliciously Tender Roast

A filet of beef is one of the most luxurious and tender cuts of meat you can prepare, and this simple recipe enhances its natural flavors without overpowering them. With just a few ingredients, including fresh herbs and garlic, this filet of beef roast turns into a mouthwatering centerpiece for any special occasion or weeknight dinner. The result is a beautifully cooked, melt-in-your-mouth tender piece of beef with a savory, aromatic crust that’s sure to impress.

Roasting the beef at a high temperature ensures a beautifully caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy and perfectly cooked to your liking. Whether you prefer your beef rare, medium, or well-done, this method ensures optimal tenderness and flavor every time. The fresh rosemary and thyme bring a fragrant herbaceous note that complements the richness of the beef, making each bite a flavorful experience.

This Filet of Beef is a sophisticated dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Tender and Juicy Meat

The beef tenderloin, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture, is the star of this recipe, delivering an incredibly tender roast that everyone will enjoy.

2. Quick and Easy Preparation

With only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-quality roast beef on the table in under an hour.

3. Fresh Herb Flavors

The garlic, rosemary, and thyme infuse the meat with a fresh, aromatic flavor that elevates the natural taste of the beef without overwhelming it.

4. Versatile Cooking Times

Whether you prefer your beef rare, medium, or well-done, this recipe allows you to adjust the roasting time to suit your desired level of doneness.

5. Perfect for Special Occasions

Filet of beef is a showstopper, making it an ideal dish for special celebrations, holiday dinners, or a sophisticated date night.

Ingredients

• Beef tenderloin
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic
• Fresh rosemary
• Fresh thyme

Variations

• Add More Herbs: For additional flavor, you can mix in other herbs like oregano or sage.
• Stuffed Filet: Make a pocket in the center of the tenderloin and stuff it with a mixture of mushrooms, spinach, or cheese for a delicious twist.
• Garlic Herb Butter: Top the roast with a homemade garlic herb butter just before serving for a rich finishing touch.
• Grilled Version: Instead of roasting, this recipe can be adapted for grilling, ensuring a slightly smoky flavor and a nice char on the outside.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a high-heat environment that will help achieve a beautifully roasted exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef

Rub the beef tenderloin with olive oil, and generously season with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Sprinkle the minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and thyme over the beef. These herbs will infuse the meat with fragrant flavors as it roasts.

Step 4: Roast the Beef

Place the prepared beef tenderloin in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The roasting time will vary depending on the size of the beef and your desired doneness. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer:

• 120-125°F for rare
• 130-135°F for medium-rare
• 140-145°F for medium
• 150-155°F for medium-well

Step 5: Rest the Meat

Once the beef is roasted to your desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the beef remains tender and flavorful.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

After the resting period, slice the beef tenderloin into thick, juicy slices and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beef, especially when roasting larger cuts.
• Rest the Meat: Letting the beef rest after roasting is crucial for keeping it tender and juicy. This also helps the juices settle and prevents them from spilling out when slicing.
• Sear Before Roasting: For an extra layer of flavor, sear the beef in a hot pan with olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side before roasting to create a delicious crust.
• Let the Beef Come to Room Temperature: Allow the beef tenderloin to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.

How to Serve

Filet of Beef is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a comforting meal. You can also pair it with a rich, creamy mashed potato or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the meat. For an elegant touch, drizzle the beef with a red wine reduction sauce or a béarnaise sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, store any leftover beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the beef is cooled completely before refrigerating to maintain its flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover cooked beef by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently in the oven or microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices of the beef in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, while beef tenderloin is ideal, you can also use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary depending on the cut.

2. How can I achieve a crust on the beef?

For a nice crust, sear the beef in a hot pan before roasting it in the oven.

3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, dried herbs can be used, but use about one-third of the amount called for with fresh herbs since dried herbs are more concentrated.

4. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook beef tenderloin in a slow cooker, though the texture may be different. It will be more tender, but you may miss the roasted crust.

5. How do I make sure the beef is cooked evenly?

Make sure to let the beef sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.

6. What sides go best with filet of beef?

Filet of beef pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or even a buttery risotto.

7. Can I add a sauce to the filet of beef?

Absolutely! Consider serving with a red wine reduction sauce, béarnaise sauce, or a simple garlic butter sauce.

8. Can I cook this beef on the grill?

Yes, you can grill the beef tenderloin over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side, then finish cooking it on low heat or in the oven to your desired doneness.

9. Can I make this recipe without garlic?

Yes, you can omit the garlic or substitute with other aromatics like shallots or onion powder.

10. What’s the best way to slice filet of beef?

Slice the beef against the grain to ensure the meat remains tender and easy to chew.

Conclusion

This Filet of Beef recipe is a straightforward and elegant way to prepare one of the most tender cuts of beef. With minimal effort and just a few key ingredients, you can achieve a perfectly roasted roast beef that is full of flavor and sure to impress your guests. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful, tender meat.

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