Savory Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Welcome to a culinary delight that will elevate any special occasion – Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin. This exquisite recipe takes a luxurious cut of beef tenderloin and transforms it into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your guests coming back for more. The key to this dish’s success lies in the slow roasting process, infusing the meat with a blend of fresh herbs and butter, and finishing it under the broiler for a golden, flavorful crust.

Picture this: a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin, tender and juicy on the inside, with a delectably crisp exterior, all enveloped in the rich flavors of herb-infused butter. Accompanied by sweet caramelized onions and a creamy, tangy horseradish sauce, every bite is a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your guests in awe. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a special dinner party, this showstopping Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin is sure to impress with its restaurant-quality results and straightforward technique.

Quick Benefits

• Elevates an already luxurious cut into a mouthwatering masterpiece perfect for special occasions
• Foolproof method delivers restaurant-quality results with straightforward techniques
• Make-ahead components reduce day-of stress and allow for a relaxed hosting experience
• Versatile accompaniments complement the beef beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience

Why You’ll Love This Savory Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe Recipe

• Luxurious Flavor: Herb and butter-roasted beef tenderloin is incredibly tender and flavorful, perfect for a special occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: The slow-roasting method followed by a quick broil creates a beautiful balance of tender, pink meat inside and a flavorful, browned crust outside.
• Restaurant-Quality Results: The foolproof method ensures that you achieve professional-grade results in your own kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Components: Prepare elements of the dish in advance to reduce stress on the day of serving.
• Versatile Accompaniments: The caramelized onions and tangy horseradish sauce perfectly complement the beef, enhancing every bite.
• Memorable Experience: Guests will rave about the aroma, flavor, and tenderness of the herb butter beef tenderloin, making it a lasting memory of your event.
• Patience Rewarded: Caramelizing onions slowly creates a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the savory beef.
• Balanced Horseradish Sauce: The creamy horseradish sauce provides a delightful contrast to the rich beef, adding a touch of heat without overpowering the dish.
• Efficient Preparation: With strategic planning, much of the dish can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your gathering without last-minute stress.
• Expert Tips: Follow pro tips such as using a meat thermometer, adding alcohol to the butter, and saving beef trimmings for future use to elevate your cooking skills and the dish.

Ingredients for Savory Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe

• 1 bunch fresh thyme
• 1 to 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 bunch fresh sage
• 1 bunch fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, for melting
• 3 pounds trimmed beef tenderloin

Caramelized Onions with Thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
• 2 sweet onions, thinly sliced

Horseradish Sauce

• 1/4 cup prepared horseradish
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Pro Tips for Savory Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe

For this herb butter beef tenderloin recipe, make sure to season the beef generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, and let it rest in the fridge overnight. This step enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat significantly. When roasting, use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness, aiming for 120–125°F for medium-rare. Tying the tenderloin with kitchen twine using butcher’s knots helps it cook evenly, resulting in a beautifully tender and juicy roast.

When caramelizing the onions, patience is key. Cook them slowly over low heat with butter and salt, stirring occasionally for at least 45–60 minutes until deeply golden and sweet. The addition of fresh thyme at the end enhances the aroma and flavor of the onions. Additionally, the horseradish sauce can be prepared ahead of time and benefits from resting in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld. Following these pro tips will help you create a showstopping dish that impresses your guests and makes any special occasion memorable.

How to Make Savory Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Securely tie kitchen twine around the beef tenderloin for even cooking. Place the tenderloin on a wire rack on a baking sheet, season generously with kosher salt and cracked black pepper, and refrigerate uncovered overnight.

Step 2: Step 02

Take the tenderloin out of the fridge 1 hour before roasting. Preheat the oven to 225°F (107°C). Secure fresh sage, rosemary, and thyme under the kitchen twine on the tenderloin.

Step 3: Step 03

Roast the beef on a baking sheet in the center of the oven for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until the internal temperature reaches 120°F to 125°F (about 49°C to 52°C). Rest the tenderloin for 10 minutes before serving.

Step 4: Step 04

In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter over low heat until slightly browned. Remove from heat. Adjust oven rack to 6 inches (15 cm) from the broiler, set to high. Spoon melted butter over beef, then broil for 2-3 minutes, turning and basting every 30 seconds. Drizzle with remaining butter, let beef rest for 10 minutes, then slice.

Step 5: Step 05

1. Heat butter in a skillet over low heat. Add sliced sweet onions and salt, stir occasionally until golden brown and caramelized, about 45-60 minutes. Add chopped thyme after 45 minutes.

Step 6: Step 06

Combine sour cream, heavy cream, horseradish, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Chill for 30-60 minutes. Garnish with fresh chives before serving.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the herb butter beef tenderloin, it is essential to store any leftovers properly to maintain freshness and flavor. Store the cooked beef in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It is best to consume the leftovers within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality.

When storing the caramelized onions, place them in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Caramelized onions can last for up to a week when stored correctly. Reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving to bring back their delicious flavor.

The horseradish sauce can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This sauce will keep well for about 3-4 days. Before serving, give it a good stir to recombine any separated ingredients. Enjoy the leftover beef tenderloin, caramelized onions, and horseradish sauce in sandwiches, salads, or as part of a delicious meal the next day.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin recipe, there are a few ingredient substitutions you can consider. If you are looking to make this dish a bit lighter, you can opt for olive oil instead of butter for basting the beef and caramelizing the onions. Olive oil will still provide flavor and moisture to the dish. Additionally, if you prefer a different herb profile, you can use a mix of thyme, oregano, and parsley instead of the sage and rosemary. This swap will bring a slightly different flavor but will still complement the beef beautifully.

If you are lactose intolerant or prefer dairy-free options, you can substitute the butter in the horseradish sauce with a plant-based butter alternative or coconut oil. This substitution will still give the sauce a creamy texture without dairy. Moreover, if you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can use Greek yogurt as a replacement in the horseradish sauce. Greek yogurt will provide a tangy flavor similar to sour cream and maintain the desired consistency of the sauce. These substitutions can help tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences or ingredient availability while still achieving delicious results.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, serve slices of herb butter beef tenderloin on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, topped with a generous spoonful of caramelized onions and a drizzle of the tangy horseradish sauce. Garnish with fresh herb sprigs and a sprinkle of chopped chives for a pop of color and added freshness. This dish is sure to impress your guests and elevate any special occasion dinner!

For a more casual yet equally delicious serving suggestion, slice the herb butter beef tenderloin thinly and use it to make gourmet sliders. Toast mini brioche buns, layer with the beef slices, caramelized onions, and a dollop of horseradish sauce. Serve alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a delightful and indulgent meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a fancy weeknight dinner.

FAQs for Savory Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Can I prepare any components of this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can season the beef a day before, caramelize the onions ahead of time, and mix the horseradish sauce a few hours in advance for convenience.

How can I ensure the beef tenderloin is cooked to the desired doneness?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 120–125°F if you prefer medium-rare doneness.

What is the purpose of broiling the beef tenderloin at the end of the cooking process?

Broiling creates a golden, crisp crust on the outside of the beef, adding both flavor and texture to the dish.

What is the key to successfully caramelizing onions for this recipe?

Start with a heavy-bottomed pan over genuinely low heat. Add butter and sliced onions, then settle in for a slow transformation. The key is consistent low heat and occasional stirring, allowing the onions to gradually release their moisture and natural sugars to caramelize.

Conclusion

As you embark on creating this Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin, remember that cooking is an act of love and creativity. The joy of preparing a special meal for your loved ones is as rewarding as savoring each delicious bite together. The aromas that will fill your kitchen and the smiles around the table are what make the effort truly worthwhile. So take your time, enjoy the process, and revel in the satisfaction of serving a dish that is sure to impress.

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in a special meal, this Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin is a culinary masterpiece that will elevate any occasion. The succulent, herb-infused beef paired with sweet caramelized onions and tangy horseradish sauce is a symphony of flavors that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. So go ahead, embrace the art of cooking, and let this recipe be a delicious expression of your passion for creating memorable dining experiences. Cheers to good food, good company, and good times ahead with Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin!