Few dishes say “holiday celebration” quite like a Beef Tenderloin Roast. With its buttery tenderness, rich flavor, and golden crust, it’s the centerpiece that makes Christmas dinner unforgettable. What’s even better? It’s surprisingly simple to make. With a handful of quality ingredients and the right technique, you’ll serve a juicy, evenly cooked roast that feels straight out of a restaurant kitchen. In this guide, you’ll learn every step — from seasoning and searing to roasting and slicing — plus pro tips for perfect results every time.
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Why You’ll Love This Beef Tenderloin Roast
This Beef Tenderloin Roast is everything you want in a holiday centerpiece: tender, juicy, and deeply flavorful. Each slice practically melts in your mouth, thanks to the buttery herb crust that seals in all those rich beef juices. It looks fancy but comes together with minimal effort, making it ideal for both experienced cooks and first-timers. The aroma of garlic, rosemary, and thyme fills your kitchen while the roast turns perfectly golden in the oven. Best of all, it’s a stress-free recipe that guarantees success — perfect for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or any special gathering with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything for the ultimate Beef Tenderloin Roast:
- Center-cut beef tenderloin roast, trimmed and tied
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Avocado oil
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Fresh garlic, minced
- Fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- Fresh thyme, finely chopped
The butter, herbs, and garlic create a rich, flavorful crust that locks in the beef’s juices and aroma. The avocado oil helps develop a beautiful golden sear without smoking. Prep time is quick, and the total cook time, including searing and roasting, takes about half an hour, making this dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant Christmas feast.
Essential Tools for Success
You’ll need a few key tools to make your Beef Tenderloin Roast flawless. A cast-iron or oven-safe pan ensures even searing and roasting. Kitchen twine keeps the roast evenly shaped for consistent cooking. A meat thermometer is your best friend — it helps you hit the perfect internal temperature without overcooking. These small details make the difference between good and restaurant-quality results.
How to Cook Beef Tenderloin Roast (Step-by-Step)
Prep the Beef
First, let the tenderloin rest at room temperature for one to two hours. This helps it cook evenly. Pat it completely dry with paper towels to encourage a beautiful crust. If it’s uneven in shape, tie it with kitchen twine every two inches so it cooks evenly from end to end.
Season and Sear
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Season the roast generously with kosher salt and black pepper on all sides. Heat avocado oil in a cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the beef on all sides until it’s browned and caramelized — about 10 minutes total. This locks in flavor and gives that irresistible golden crust.
Add the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Once the beef is seared, remove it from the heat and spread the herb butter evenly over the top and sides. The butter will melt into the meat as it roasts, creating a rich, aromatic finish.
Roast to Perfection
Transfer the pan to the oven and roast for 15–20 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness. Use a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the roast: remove at 120°F for medium-rare or 130°F for medium. Remember, it will continue to cook while resting.
Rest, Slice, and Serve
After roasting, transfer the tenderloin to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every slice moist and flavorful. Cut off the twine, slice into 1-inch pieces, and serve with creamy horseradish sauce or your favorite gravy.
Beef Tenderloin Cooking Times and Temperature Guide
Getting the perfect doneness is easy with a thermometer. For rare, remove the roast at 110°F (rest to 115–118°F). For medium-rare, remove at 120°F (rest to 125–128°F). For medium, remove at 130°F (rest to 135–138°F). Always insert the thermometer in the thickest part, avoiding fat or bone. Remember, residual heat will raise the temperature as it rests, so pull it a few degrees early.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Roast
Always let your meat rest before slicing — it’s the secret to juicy results. Ask your butcher to trim and tie the roast for you to save time. For extra flavor, mix a bit of Dijon mustard into your herb butter or add a touch of smoked paprika. Using twine keeps the shape consistent, ensuring every slice cooks evenly. And don’t skip the thermometer — guessing leads to overcooking!
What to Serve with Beef Tenderloin Roast
This roast pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted brussels sprouts, or buttery green beans. Add a festive touch with a crisp salad or Yorkshire pudding. For a complete Christmas menu, try serving it alongside Classic Christmas Prime Rib Feast or Homemade Dinner Rolls Christmas Recipe. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with The Best Carrot Cake Christmas Favorite to finish the meal.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. Avoid overheating to keep the meat tender. If you prefer, reheat in a skillet with a touch of butter for a few seconds per side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to cook a beef tenderloin?
The best method is to sear it first, then finish roasting in the oven until your desired internal temperature.
How long does it take to roast tenderloin?
Usually about 15–20 minutes in the oven after searing.
Is beef tenderloin very tender?
Yes, it’s the most tender cut of beef, with a buttery texture and mild flavor.
What’s the difference between roast beef and beef tenderloin?
Roast beef can be made from various cuts, but tenderloin is a specific, lean, and extremely tender cut from the loin section.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Easy Roast Turkey Christmas Recipe
- Cranberry Brie Bites Festive Recipe
- Garlic Butter Steak Bites Easy Dinner
Conclusion or Final Thoughts
A Beef Tenderloin Roast is the perfect way to make your holiday dinner unforgettable. With simple prep and a few smart steps, you’ll serve a roast that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Whether it’s your first time or your family tradition, this dish delivers every single time. For more festive inspiration, check out my latest creations on Pinterest.
Beef Tenderloin Roast
Equipment
- Cast-iron or oven-safe pan For even searing and roasting.
- Kitchen twine Helps keep the roast evenly shaped.
- Meat thermometer Ensures accurate doneness.
Ingredients
- Center-cut beef tenderloin roast, trimmed and tied
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Avocado oil
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Fresh garlic, minced
- Fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- Fresh thyme, finely chopped
Instructions
- Let the beef sit at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours before cooking. Pat it dry and tie it evenly with kitchen twine if needed.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper. Heat avocado oil in a cast-iron pan and sear the roast on all sides until golden brown.
- Combine softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Spread the herb butter over the top of the seared roast.
- Transfer the pan to the oven and roast for 15–20 minutes, depending on doneness. Use a thermometer to check internal temperature (120°F for medium-rare).
- Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Cut into 1-inch slices and serve with horseradish sauce if desired.
