Roasting Whole Tenderloin

Prep: 240 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Juicy, tender beef tenderloin roasted to perfection with garlic, onion, and flavorful marinades. Ideal for special occasions or impressive family dinners, offering rich, savory flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 whole beef tenderloin, tied for roasting (6 to 8 lb.)
  • garlic cloves, chopped

Instructions

  1. Allow the beef tenderloin to marinate for 3 to 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Preheat the oven to 500°F.
  3. Roast the meat for 7 minutes per pound for rare or 10 minutes per pound for medium doneness.
  4. Remove from oven and let rest before slicing and serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider marinating the tenderloin with herbs like rosemary or thyme, along with the garlic. If you don't have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a substitute. Ensure your oven is fully preheated to achieve a good sear. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: 125°F for rare and 145°F for medium. This technique works well for other beef recipes too.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the tenderloin against the grain for the best texture. It pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. For an elegant touch, serve with All Purpose Dinner Gravy drizzled over the top. A fresh salad or a side of Old Settler'S Butter Beans can complete the meal, making it suitable for any special occasion.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover beef tenderloin should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meat and place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it on low power in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Roasting Whole Tenderloin contains roughly 43 calories, with 3g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.

43 kcal 2% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3g 6% DV
Total Fat 3.2g 4% DV
Carbs 0.3g
Fiber 0g
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 10.5mg
Potassium 42mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 10.6mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.1mcg
Calcium 1.3mg
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell when the tenderloin is done cooking?

Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check doneness. For rare, aim for 125°F, while medium should reach 145°F. Remember that the meat will continue cooking slightly as it rests, so remove it from the oven a few degrees early.

Can I cook a frozen tenderloin?

Cooking a frozen tenderloin is not recommended as it may cook unevenly. It's best to thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours before marinating and roasting. This ensures even cooking and enhances flavor absorption.

What should I do if I want to cook a smaller tenderloin?

If using a smaller tenderloin, adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a 3 to 4 lb. tenderloin, roast for approximately 21 to 28 minutes total for medium doneness. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked to your preference.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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