Few dishes announce a special occasion quite like Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin. It’s the kind of showstopper roast that draws everyone to the table with its incredible aroma—the golden, garlicky crust giving way to melt-in-your-mouth, juicy beef. Whether you’re planning a holiday dinner or simply want to treat your loved ones to something unforgettable, this recipe takes a handful of fresh ingredients to create restaurant-level flavor right at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin might look extravagant, but its secret is in the beautiful balance of simple, fresh ingredients. Every element plays a unique role: the beef for succulent richness, fresh herbs for a vibrant pop, garlic for warmth, and butter to pull it all together with silky texture.
- Beef tenderloin (about 4–5 pounds): The star of the show! Choose a well-trimmed cut for even cooking and tenderness.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): This is the magic that creates a luscious herb crust and locks in moisture.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic gives the butter and beef a rich, aromatic punch.
- Fresh rosemary (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Rosemary offers earthy, piney notes that complement the beef perfectly.
- Fresh thyme (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Thyme adds a subtle, savory lift that brightens up each bite.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Parsley brings a clean, fresh finish and a splash of green.
- Kosher salt (1 tablespoon): Essential for seasoning and building a flavorful crust.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): A hint of heat ties all the herb flavors together.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps get that beautiful, mouthwatering sear on the outside of the tenderloin.
How to Make Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin
Step 1: Prep the Beef Tenderloin
Pat the beef dry with paper towels and let it sit out for about 30 minutes as it comes to room temperature. This step is crucial—room-temperature beef cooks more evenly, giving you that juicy, rosy center we all crave. Make sure the tenderloin is trimmed and tied for the most uniform shape.
Step 2: Mix the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, blend your softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, kosher salt, and black pepper. Take a moment to inhale the incredible fragrance—this is the flavor foundation for your Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin and it’s what gives the roast its signature character.
Step 3: Coat the Beef
Rub the freshly mixed herb butter generously and evenly over the entire tenderloin. Use your hands (the best kitchen tool!) to press the mixture into every nook and cranny so each slice is packed with herby, buttery flavor.
Step 4: Sear for Color and Crust
Set a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, sear your tenderloin on all sides—about 3–4 minutes per side. This quick step gives the beef that crave-worthy caramelized crust, locking in the juices before roasting.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Slide the skillet into your preheated 450°F oven. Roast the tenderloin for 25–35 minutes, checking with a meat thermometer. For that classic medium-rare Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin, aim for 130°F at the thickest part. (130°F for medium-rare, 135°F for medium, and 145°F if you prefer it more done.)
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the roast rest for 15 minutes. Resting is key—it allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice unbelievably tender and moist. Slice thick or thin, and get ready to watch it disappear!
How to Serve Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or thyme wakes up the plate with color and freshness. For extra elegance, try scattering a few sprigs of fresh herbs or a light dusting of flaky sea salt over the top before serving.
Side Dishes
Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin loves company! Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or crisp green beans. A tangy horseradish sauce or red wine jus is also a classic addition that guests always appreciate.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange slices on a wooden board with a ramekin of any leftover herb butter for spreading, or pile high onto a platter layered with roasted vegetables. For a bit of drama, carve the tenderloin tableside and let your guests see (and smell!) the beautiful herb crust up close.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best flavor and texture. Cold slices make fantastic sandwiches or salad toppers!
Freezing
To freeze, slice the cooled beef and arrange pieces in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For the juiciest results, reheat slices gently in a low oven (around 250°F), covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also enjoy it cold or at room temperature, especially for sandwiches or picnic spreads.
FAQs
Can I make the herb butter in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the herb butter several days ahead and store it in the fridge. It’ll firm up beautifully, and you can use any leftovers on vegetables, bread, or even a fresh batch of Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin.
How do I know when the beef tenderloin is done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F at the thickest part. Remember, the temperature will rise by a few degrees as it rests, so don’t overcook!
Can I cook Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin on the grill?
You sure can! Sear the tenderloin over direct heat, then transfer to indirect heat, cover, and finish grilling until your desired temperature is reached. The herb butter still works its magic.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin is naturally gluten-free, so it’s perfect for guests with dietary restrictions. Just double-check that your butter and seasonings are certified gluten-free!
What’s the best way to tie a beef tenderloin?
Use kitchen twine to tie the roast at 1-inch intervals. This helps it cook evenly and keeps the shape neat, so your Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin slices up perfectly at serving time.
Final Thoughts
Sink your knife into Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin just once, and you’ll see why it deserves a special place in your recipe box. It’s savory, succulent, and endlessly versatile—which means you’ll be looking for any excuse to make it again. Surprise your family, impress your friends, or just treat yourself; this dish turns any meal into a real celebration!
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Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a decadent and flavorful Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin that is perfect for special occasions and holiday dinners. This tender and juicy roast is seasoned with a fragrant herb butter mixture and roasted to perfection, making it a show-stopping main course.
Ingredients
Beef Tenderloin:
- 1 whole beef tenderloin (about 4–5 pounds), trimmed and tied
Herb Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Other:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 450°F.
- Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Make Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Rub Herb Butter: Rub the herb butter evenly over the entire surface of the tenderloin.
- Sear the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Roast: Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 25–35 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 130°F for medium-rare.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the tenderloin rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can prepare the herb butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
- Use any leftover herb butter on vegetables or bread.
- Adjust cook time based on desired doneness—135°F for medium, 145°F for medium-well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 670 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
