When planning a special dinner for 8 guests, one of the most common questions is: How big should the beef tenderloin be? Whether it’s a holiday feast, a celebration, or just a fancy dinner party, getting the right size beef tenderloin ensures everyone enjoys a delicious, satisfying portion without waste or shortage. Let’s dive into the details of how much beef tenderloin you need to buy for 8 people, plus tips on portion sizes and cooking.
Understanding Beef Tenderloin Portions
Beef tenderloin is a premium cut prized for its tenderness and flavor. Because it’s lean and cooks down a bit, portioning it correctly is key.
– Standard serving size: For a formal dinner where beef tenderloin is the main attraction, plan on about 8 ounces (1/2 pound) of raw beef per person. This generally yields a generous cooked portion of 6 to 8 ounces after some moisture loss during cooking.
– Total for 8 people: Multiply 8 ounces by 8 guests, and you get 64 ounces or 4 pounds of raw beef tenderloin. This amount will comfortably feed 8 adults with hearty portions.
Why Buy a Little Extra?
Beef tenderloin loses about 10-25% of its weight during cooking due to moisture evaporation. Buying a slightly larger piece accounts for this shrinkage and ensures no one leaves hungry. Also, consider if you want leftovers:
– For leftovers or larger appetites, increase the purchase to 4.5 to 5 pounds for 8 people.
– If serving alongside many sides or other main dishes, you can reduce the portion to about 6 ounces cooked per person, which means buying around 3 to 3.5 pounds of raw tenderloin.
Choosing the Right Tenderloin Size and Cut
Beef tenderloins come in various sizes and trims:
– Full tenderloin (5-6 pounds): Great for large gatherings but may be more than needed for 8 people.
– Half tenderloin (2.5-3 pounds): Provides about 4-5 servings. You would need two halves to feed 8 guests.
– Petite tenderloin (1-2 pounds): Ideal if you have other mains or smaller appetites. You’d need multiple petite tenderloins to serve 8.
– Individual filet mignon steaks (6-8 ounces each): Buying individual portions gives precise control over servings. For 8 people, get 8 to 10 pieces.
If you’re not confident trimming the tenderloin yourself, opt for a trimmed, tied tenderloin for a neat, uniform roast that cooks evenly and looks beautiful on the plate.
Tips for Serving Beef Tenderloin for 8
– Plan for about 1/2 pound per person raw to ensure generous portions.
– Consider your guests’ appetites and whether you want leftovers.
– Buy a slightly larger tenderloin to account for cooking shrinkage.
– If serving multiple dishes, reduce the portion size accordingly.
– Use a sharp, long knife to slice the tenderloin neatly for elegant presentation.
Cooking and Presentation Suggestions
The best way to cook beef tenderloin is to roast it in the oven starting at a high temperature to sear the outside, then lower the heat to cook it gently inside. This method creates a flavorful crust and tender, juicy interior.
Serve with classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to complement the rich beef.
Beef tenderloin is a luxurious centerpiece that deserves the right portion size. For 8 adults, aim for about 4 to 5 pounds of raw beef tenderloin to ensure everyone enjoys a generous, memorable meal. This way, you’ll have a perfect balance of flavor, tenderness, and quantity for your special occasion.