Beef tenderloin steaks are the epitome of tender, juicy, and flavorful beef. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or just treating yourself, knowing how to cook beef tenderloin steaks perfectly can elevate your meal to restaurant-quality delight. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know-from selecting the right cut to mastering cooking techniques that bring out the best in this prized steak.
What Makes Beef Tenderloin Special?
Beef tenderloin comes from a muscle that does very little work, making it the most tender cut of beef available. It’s lean, buttery, and melts in your mouth. Because of its tenderness and subtle flavor, it’s often reserved for celebrations or elegant dinners. The steaks you get from this cut are sometimes called filet mignon, prized for their delicate texture and mild beefiness.
Choosing the Perfect Beef Tenderloin Steak
Before cooking, selecting a high-quality tenderloin steak is key:
– Look for marbling: Small streaks of fat running through the meat add flavor and juiciness.
– Color and texture: Choose steaks with a vibrant deep red color and firm texture.
– Size: Individual steaks are usually around 6 ounces each, perfect for a single serving.
Preparing Your Beef Tenderloin Steaks
Bring to Room Temperature
Take your steaks out of the fridge about 30 to 60 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and develop a better crust.
Season Generously
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels, then season both sides liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor without overpowering it.
Cooking Methods for Beef Tenderloin Steaks
1. Pan-Seared and Oven-Finished
This is a classic and foolproof method to get a beautifully seared exterior and juicy interior.
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Heat a skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add a mix of butter and olive oil for flavor and browning.
– Sear the steaks for about 2-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks while cooking to keep them moist and flavorful.
– Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 5 to 10 minutes depending on your preferred doneness:
– Rare: 120-125°F (about 4 minutes)
– Medium rare: 130-135°F (5-6 minutes)
– Medium: 140-145°F (6-7 minutes)
– Medium well: 150-155°F (8-9 minutes)
– Well done: 160°F (10 minutes).
Use a meat thermometer for precision. Remove the steak when it’s about 5°F below your target temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting.
– Rest the steaks for 5-10 minutes loosely covered with foil to allow juices to redistribute.
2. Grilling
Grilling imparts a smoky flavor and is perfect for outdoor cooking.
– Preheat your grill to high heat and oil the grates.
– Sear the steaks for about 2-3 minutes per side to develop grill marks.
– Move the steaks to indirect heat and cook to your desired doneness, using a meat thermometer to check temperatures (130°F for medium-rare is ideal).
– Let the steaks rest before serving to keep them juicy.
3. Oven Roasting (Whole Tenderloin or Thick Steaks)
If you have a thicker cut or a whole tenderloin:
– Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
– Sear the tenderloin on all sides in a hot skillet with oil.
– Add aromatics like garlic and fresh thyme to the pan for extra flavor.
– Transfer to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting time based on thickness.
– Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Beef Tenderloin Steaks
– Use a meat thermometer: This is the only way to guarantee your steak is cooked exactly how you like it.
– Don’t skip resting: Resting is crucial to keep the steak juicy and tender.
– Butter basting: Spoon melted butter over the steaks while searing for extra richness.
– Avoid overcooking: Because tenderloin is lean, cooking it beyond medium can dry it out.
– Tie your tenderloin: If cooking a whole tenderloin, tying it helps it cook evenly.
Flavor Enhancements
Beef tenderloin’s mild flavor pairs beautifully with simple seasonings, but you can also:
– Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during roasting.
– Serve with a pan sauce made from red wine, garlic, and butter.
– Top with herb butter or béarnaise sauce for a luxurious finish.
Final Thoughts
Cooking beef tenderloin steaks perfectly is easier than you think. With a hot sear, careful oven finishing, and proper resting, you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful steaks that impress every time. Whether pan-seared, grilled, or roasted, the key is simple seasoning and precise temperature control.
Enjoy your delicious beef tenderloin steak, the star of any meal!