Planning a special dinner for six adults and wondering how big a beef tenderloin you need? Whether it’s a holiday feast, a birthday celebration, or a fancy weekend dinner, getting the right size beef tenderloin is key to impressing your guests without wasting food or money. Let’s break down exactly how much beef tenderloin you should buy to serve six adults perfectly.
Understanding Beef Tenderloin Portions
Beef tenderloin is a luxurious, tender cut prized for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and mild flavor. Because it’s a premium cut, it’s important to buy the right amount-not too little, not too much.
How Much Beef Tenderloin per Person?
– General rule of thumb: Plan for about 8 to 10 ounces (225 to 280 grams) of raw beef tenderloin per person if it’s the main course.
– This accounts for some shrinkage during cooking (roughly 10-15%), so the cooked portion will be slightly smaller but still generous.
– If you are serving many sides or appetizers, you can lean toward the lower end of the range, around 6 ounces per person.
How Big Should Your Beef Tenderloin Be for 6 Adults?
For six adults, here’s what the numbers say:
– 2 pounds (900 grams) of beef tenderloin can serve 6 people if you have plenty of sides or other dishes.
– 3 pounds (about 1.36 kilograms) is a safer bet for six adults if the tenderloin is the star of the meal and you want hearty portions.
– Some sources suggest buying between 1.5 to 2.25 pounds for 4 to 6 guests, but for six adults, aiming for around 3 pounds ensures everyone gets enough.
Summary:
| Number of Adults | Recommended Raw Beef Tenderloin Size |
|---|---|
| 6 | 3 pounds (approx. 1.36 kg) |
Tips for Buying and Serving Beef Tenderloin
Trimmed vs. Untrimmed
– Beef tenderloin comes either trimmed (ready to cook) or untrimmed (with fat and silver skin).
– If you’re confident with a knife, untrimmed tenderloin can save money, but trimmed is easier and looks elegant on the plate.
Cooking and Portioning
– Beef tenderloin shrinks during cooking, so buy a little extra to account for that.
– For a perfect roast, sear the tenderloin at high heat first, then finish cooking at a lower temperature for even doneness and a tender interior.
– Slice the roast into 1/2-inch thick slices for serving; this typically yields 3-4 slices per person.
Leftovers and Flexibility
– If you want leftovers or are serving a crowd with big appetites, increase the size slightly.
– If you have many side dishes or appetizers, you can reduce the amount per person.
How to Calculate Beef Tenderloin Size Yourself
- Decide portion size: 8-10 ounces raw per person (about 1/2 pound).
- Multiply by number of guests: For 6 adults, 6 x 0.5 lbs = 3 pounds.
- Consider shrinkage: Cooking reduces weight by about 10-15%, so buying 3 pounds raw will yield approximately 2.5 to 2.7 pounds cooked.
- Adjust for sides: If you have many sides, you can reduce slightly.
Final Thoughts on Buying Beef Tenderloin for 6 Adults
Buying a 3-pound beef tenderloin for six adults is a perfect choice for a generous, elegant meal. It ensures everyone enjoys a tender, juicy portion with room for sides and possibly leftovers. Remember, it’s better to have a little extra than not enough, especially with such a special cut of meat.
Enjoy your cooking and the delicious meal ahead!