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Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe

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4.5 from 63 reviews

This Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin recipe features a tender, juicy beef tenderloin seared to perfection and roasted with a flavorful garlic butter sauce infused with fresh herbs. It's an elegant and delicious main course perfect for special occasions or a gourmet dinner at home.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

  • 2 lbs beef tenderloin, trimmed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Sear the Beef: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot. Add the beef tenderloin to the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until a nice brown crust forms. Make sure to sear all sides for even cooking.
  3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the minced garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice (if using). Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat.
  4. Roast the Beef: Once the beef is seared, brush half of the garlic butter sauce over the tenderloin. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and roast for about 15-20 minutes for medium-rare (135°F/57°C) or longer for your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
  5. Rest and Serve: Once cooked to your liking, remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Slice the beef into medallions and drizzle with the remaining garlic butter sauce. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness: 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium.
  • Resting the meat is crucial for juicy, tender slices.
  • If you prefer, substitute dried herbs for fresh but adjust quantities accordingly.
  • Lemon juice adds a nice brightness but can be omitted if preferred.
  • The garlic butter sauce can be made ahead and warmed before serving.