Grilling beef tenderloin might seem intimidating, but with the right steps, you can impress your guests with a juicy, tender, and flavorful steak. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to grill beef tenderloin perfectly every time.
What Makes Beef Tenderloin Special?
Beef tenderloin is one of the most tender cuts of beef because it comes from a muscle that doesn’t do much work. It has very little fat and connective tissue, which means it cooks quickly and stays tender when done right. However, its leanness also means it’s easy to overcook, so careful temperature control is key.
Preparing Your Beef Tenderloin for the Grill
1. Trim and Tie
Start by trimming any excess fat and silver skin (the silvery membrane) from the tenderloin. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures even cooking. Then, tie the tenderloin with kitchen twine at regular intervals. This keeps the roast in a uniform shape, which promotes even grilling and a nicer presentation.
2. Season Generously
Brush the tenderloin with olive oil to help the seasonings adhere. Use a simple but flavorful rub made from salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. You can also add spices like dry mustard or cayenne for a little kick. Let the seasoned beef rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before grilling-this helps it cook evenly.
Setting Up Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and clean the grates well. Oil the grates to prevent sticking. For best results, set up a two-zone fire: one side with direct heat for searing and the other with indirect heat for slower cooking.
How to Grill Beef Tenderloin Step-by-Step
Step 1: Sear Over Direct Heat
Place the tenderloin on the hot side of the grill. Sear it for about 15-20 minutes, turning every 3-5 minutes to develop a nice crust on all sides. This locks in juices and adds flavor.
Step 2: Move to Indirect Heat
After searing, move the tenderloin to the cooler side of the grill. Close the lid and cook slowly until it reaches your desired internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check:
– Rare: 125°F to 130°F
– Medium-rare: 130°F to 135°F
– Medium: 140°F to 145°F
This usually takes 20-30 minutes depending on the size of your tenderloin.
Step 3: Rest Before Slicing
Once done, transfer the tenderloin to a cutting board and let it rest for 10-20 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicy and tender when sliced.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Beef Tenderloin
– Bring to Room Temperature: Letting the meat sit out before grilling ensures even cooking.
– Use a Meat Thermometer: This takes guesswork out of grilling and prevents overcooking.
– Tie the Tenderloin: Keeps the shape uniform for even cooking.
– Don’t Skip Resting: Resting is crucial for juicy meat.
– Rotate Often While Searing: This helps create an even crust.
Serving Suggestions
Beef tenderloin pairs wonderfully with creamy horseradish sauce, herb butter, or a simple chimichurri. Serve alongside grilled vegetables, foil-pack potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Grilling beef tenderloin is easier than you think when you follow these simple steps. With a little prep and patience, you’ll have a restaurant-quality steak that’s juicy, tender, and full of flavor. Ready to fire up the grill?