Whole Beef Tenderloin
A tender, flavorful beef tenderloin roasted to perfection with a savory wine-based sauce, ideal for special occasions or elegant dinners with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the wine, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, butter, and water to make the sauce.
- Leave the tenderloin whole and form it into a log shape, folding under the thin end.
- Tie the tenderloin with string about 4 to 5 times to hold its shape.
- Cook the tenderloin as desired, then serve with the warm sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use a good quality wine that you enjoy drinking. If you don't have fresh herbs, dried oregano and basil can be used instead, but reduce the amounts as dried herbs are more potent. To ensure even cooking, allow the tenderloin to come to room temperature before cooking. Consider searing it in a hot pan before finishing in the oven for a beautifully browned crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tenderloin sliced with the warm sauce drizzled over the top. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a flavorful rice dish. This dish is also excellent with a side of garlic bread for soaking up the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, slice the tenderloin and warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, covered, to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whole Beef Tenderloin contains roughly 236 calories, with 14g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (53% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1241mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
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 do I know when the beef tenderloin is done cooking?
For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F (57°C); for medium, 145°F (63°C). Remember to let the meat rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While beef tenderloin is the star of this recipe for its tenderness, you could use a ribeye or sirloin as alternatives. However, cooking times may vary significantly, so adjust accordingly and keep an eye on the internal temperature.
What should I serve with beef tenderloin?
Beef tenderloin pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a cozy touch, homemade biscuits or garlic bread make excellent accompaniments, perfect for enjoying the sauce.
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).