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Beef Tenderloin with Herb Butter. Christmas eve dinner ideas

Beef Tenderloin with Herb Butter

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Makes 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 whole beef tenderloin center-cut, about 4 lbs, trimmed and tied
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon coarse black pepper
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

  • Remove the tenderloin from the fridge 1 hour before cooking so it comes closer to room temperature.
  • Preheat the oven to 425F and set a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet.
  • Pat the tenderloin dry, rub it with olive oil, then season on all sides with the salt and pepper.
  • Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat and sear the tenderloin 2 minutes per side, about 8 minutes total, until a deep brown crust forms.
  • Transfer the seared tenderloin to the wire rack.
  • In a small bowl, mash the butter with the garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley and lemon zest until combined.
  • Spread half the herb butter over the top of the tenderloin.
  • Roast 25 to 35 minutes, until a thermometer inserted at the thickest part reads 125F for medium rare.
  • Remove from the oven, top with the remaining herb butter, tent loosely with foil and rest 15 minutes, during which the internal temperature will climb to about 135F.
  • Slice into 3/4 inch medallions and serve.

Good to Know

The herb butter can be mashed, rolled in parchment and chilled up to 3 days ahead; let it soften at room temperature before using.