Beef tenderloin is one of the most prized cuts of meat – tender, flavorful, and perfect for special occasions. But when it comes to buying the right size, many people wonder: how big of a beef tenderloin do I need? Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a family gathering, getting the portion size right ensures everyone leaves happy without wasting money on too much meat.
Let’s break down everything you need to know to confidently choose the perfect beef tenderloin size for your meal.
How Much Beef Tenderloin Per Person?
The general rule of thumb for beef tenderloin is to plan for 6 to 8 ounces of raw meat per person. This amount accounts for shrinkage during cooking and leaves enough for a satisfying main course portion.
– 6 ounces per person is a good baseline for average appetites.
– 8 ounces per person is ideal if you expect hungry guests or want generous servings.
– For lighter eaters or if you’re serving many side dishes, you can lean toward the lower end of the scale.
Calculating Total Beef Tenderloin Size
To figure out the total size of beef tenderloin you need, multiply the number of guests by the ounces per person, then convert ounces to pounds (16 ounces = 1 pound).
For example:
– For 6 people at 8 ounces each: 6 × 8 = 48 ounces → 3 pounds
– For 12 people at 6 ounces each: 12 × 6 = 72 ounces → 4.5 pounds
Because beef tenderloin loses about 20-25% of its weight during cooking due to moisture loss, buying a bit more than your calculation is wise to ensure enough cooked meat.
Beef Tenderloin Size Recommendations by Group Size
| Number of Guests | Beef Tenderloin Size (Raw) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4-6 | 2-3 pounds | Perfect for small dinner |
| 6-8 | 3-4 pounds | Ideal for medium gatherings |
| 8-10 | 4-5 pounds | Allows for leftovers |
| 12 | 5-6 pounds | Great for larger parties |
If you want leftovers or have big eaters, increase the size by about 1 pound per every 4 guests.
Different Cuts and Buying Options
Beef tenderloin is sold in various sizes and forms:
– Whole tenderloin (5-6 pounds): Best for large groups or multiple meals.
– Half tenderloin (2.5-3 pounds): Good for 4-5 people; buy two halves for 8-10 guests.
– Petite tenderloin (1-2 pounds): Suitable if serving other mains or smaller groups.
– Individual filet mignon steaks (6-8 ounces each): Allows precise portion control for any number of guests.
Tips for Buying and Serving Beef Tenderloin
– Buy a little extra: It’s better to have leftovers than run short, especially since tenderloin is expensive.
– Consider your menu: If you have many sides or appetizers, you can reduce the beef portion slightly.
– Account for cooking loss: Expect about 20-25% shrinkage during roasting or grilling.
– Use a meat thermometer: To achieve perfect doneness and avoid overcooking.
– Trim excess fat: This affects the final weight and presentation.
Measuring Beef Tenderloin Length for Portions
If you want to be precise, measure the length of the tenderloin and divide by the portion size (usually 6-8 ounces per serving). This helps especially if you buy a whole tenderloin and want to slice it evenly.
Summary
– Plan for 6-8 ounces of raw beef tenderloin per person.
– Multiply by your guest count and convert to pounds.
– Buy slightly more than calculated to account for cooking loss.
– Choose the cut size based on your group size and serving style.
– Consider leftovers and appetite size when deciding.
With this guide, you’ll confidently pick the perfect beef tenderloin size for your next meal, ensuring a delicious and stress-free dining experience.
Enjoy your perfectly portioned, melt-in-your-mouth beef tenderloin feast!
Mastering beef tenderloin portions means happier guests and less waste. Remember: 6-8 ounces per person is your golden rule. Happy cooking!