Million Dollar Roast Beef Tenderloin: The Perfect Show-Stopping Main Course

Million Dollar Roast Beef Tenderloin is the kind of dish that transforms any dinner into an unforgettable occasion. The tenderloin is known as the most luxurious cut of beef, and this recipe takes it to the next level by searing and roasting it to perfection, resulting in an incredibly tender and flavorful centerpiece. What makes this roast truly worthy of the “million dollar” title is the combination of a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin with a savory herb butter crust, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Ideal for Christmas, New Year’s, or a milestone celebration, this beef tenderloin is incredibly simple yet elegant. It’s all about letting the quality of the beef shine through, enhanced by simple, high-quality ingredients. This dish is sure to impress your guests and will make any dinner feel like a true celebration. Let’s get started!

2. Ingredients

• 4-5 lb beef tenderloin, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Herb Butter Sauce:

• 1/2 cup dry red wine
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

3. Directions

1. Prepare the Tenderloin: Remove the beef tenderloin from the refrigerator about 30-45 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
2. Season the Beef: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with olive oil, then generously season with kosher salt and black pepper.
3. Make Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme. Set aside.
4. Sear the Beef: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a bit of oil to coat the pan. Sear the beef tenderloin on all sides, including the ends, for about 2-3 minutes per side, until it’s nicely browned.
5. Add Herb Butter: Remove the skillet from heat and spread the herb butter mixture all over the top and sides of the beef tenderloin.
6. Roast the Tenderloin: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the tenderloin until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy:
   • 120-125°F for Rare (about 20-25 minutes)
   • 130-135°F for Medium Rare (about 25-30 minutes)
   • 140-145°F for Medium (about 30-35 minutes)
7. Rest the Beef: Once cooked, transfer the tenderloin to a cutting board, tent it loosely with foil, and let it rest for 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the beef tender and juicy.
8. Prepare Herb Butter Sauce: While the tenderloin rests, place the skillet back on medium heat. Add the red wine and beef broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 5-6 minutes until reduced by half. Whisk in the cold butter, one cube at a time, until the sauce is smooth and velvety. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce if desired.
9. Serve: Slice the beef tenderloin into 1-inch thick slices. Drizzle with the warm herb butter sauce and serve immediately. Enjoy!

4. How to Prepare

To prepare Million Dollar Roast Beef Tenderloin, start by bringing the beef to room temperature—this ensures even cooking throughout. Sear the beef in a hot skillet to lock in all those juices and develop a flavorful crust. The herb butter, made with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, is then slathered all over the tenderloin before roasting. Roasting to your preferred doneness ensures that every slice is perfectly tender and juicy. As the tenderloin rests, prepare the herb butter sauce in the same skillet for extra flavor. The combination of a well-rested beef tenderloin and a luscious butter sauce is truly indulgent, making it a show-stopping dish.

5. Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes (depending on doneness)
• Resting Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

6. Servings

This recipe serves 8-10 people, making it ideal for a holiday dinner or special celebration.

7. FAQs

Q1: Can I prepare the tenderloin ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can season the tenderloin and rub it with herb butter a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator, then bring it to room temperature before cooking.

Q2: How do I know when the beef is done?
A: The best way to ensure your beef tenderloin is cooked perfectly is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat for an accurate reading.

Q3: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor. If using dried, use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.

Q4: What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
A: Any oven-safe skillet will work, or you can transfer the seared tenderloin to a roasting pan before placing it in the oven.

Q5: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or enjoy cold in sandwiches or salads.

8. Conclusion

Million Dollar Roast Beef Tenderloin is the perfect dish to serve when you want to make a lasting impression. The tenderloin itself, with its buttery crust and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, paired with the savory herb butter sauce, makes for an unforgettable meal. While this recipe may sound sophisticated, the steps are straightforward, and the reward is a restaurant-quality dish that will make any dinner feel extra special. Whether you’re cooking for a special holiday, a family gathering, or simply to indulge yourself, this recipe will deliver amazing results every time. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad for a complete meal that will leave everyone raving. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this magnificent roast!