How to cook a Small Beef Tenderloin Recipe at home. Cooking beef tenderloin might sound intimidating because it’s one of the most luxurious and tender cuts of beef, but preparing a small beef tenderloin at home is surprisingly easy. With its buttery texture, rich flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, this cut deserves special attention. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, holiday feast, or a romantic meal, this guide will walk you through how to cook a small beef tenderloin recipe perfectly every time.
What Is Beef Tenderloin?
Beef tenderloin is a long, lean, and tender muscle that runs along the spine of the cow. It’s the cut from which filet mignon steaks are sliced. Because it has very little connective tissue, it cooks quickly and doesn’t need slow cooking methods like tougher cuts.
For smaller meals, a small beef tenderloin (about 1–2 pounds) is ideal. It cooks faster, is easier to handle, and is perfect for 2–4 servings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 small beef tenderloin (1–2 pounds, trimmed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Dijon mustard or balsamic glaze for finishing
Step-by-Step: How to Cook a Small Beef Tenderloin
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1. Prepare the Beef
- Remove the tenderloin from the fridge 30–45 minutes before cooking so it comes to room temperature.
- Pat it dry with paper towels for a better sear.
- Rub with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps create a golden crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
3. Sear the Tenderloin
- Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil or butter.
- Place the tenderloin in the skillet and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned all over.
4. Roast in the Oven
- Transfer the skillet (or place the beef on a baking sheet if using a different pan) into the preheated oven.
- Roast until your desired doneness is reached:
| Doneness | Internal Temp | Approx. Cook Time (for small tenderloin) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 120–125°F | 15–18 minutes |
| Medium Rare | 130–135°F | 18–22 minutes |
| Medium | 140–145°F | 22–25 minutes |
(Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—tenderloin cooks quickly!)
5. Rest the Meat
Remove from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
6. Slice and Serve
Slice into thick medallions and serve with your favorite sides like roasted potatoes, garlic green beans, or a simple salad.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a thermometer: Because beef tenderloin is expensive and cooks quickly, a digital meat thermometer is your best friend.
- Don’t overcook: Tenderloin is best served rare to medium-rare. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Add flavor layers: A drizzle of balsamic glaze, Dijon mustard rub, or compound butter can elevate your tenderloin.
- Make a pan sauce: After searing, deglaze the skillet with red wine or beef broth, add butter and herbs for a quick sauce.
Variations
- Garlic Herb Crust: Mix butter, garlic, and herbs into a paste and spread over the tenderloin before roasting.
- Peppercorn Crust: Coat in crushed black peppercorns for a bold, steakhouse-style finish.
- Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the tenderloin in bacon strips for extra flavor and moisture.
What to Serve with Beef Tenderloin
This elegant dish pairs beautifully with classic sides:
- Roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes
- Steamed asparagus or green beans almondine
- A crisp garden salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, to complement the richness
Conclusion
Cooking a small beef tenderloin at home is easier than it seems. With a good sear, oven roasting, and proper resting, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results in under an hour. This cut of beef is tender, flavorful, and perfect for special occasions—or simply when you want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal.
Now that you know how to cook a small beef tenderloin recipe, you can impress your family and friends with a dish that looks elegant but is simple to prepare.
