The easiest way is to pop the beef tenderloin in the oven and roast it at high heat.
The pan’s sides should be 2 to 3 inches high.
For easy cleanup, choose a nonstick or dishwasher-safe pan.
Credit:Carson Downing
You’ll also need an oven-goingmeat thermometer.
A common question beef tenderloin newbies ask is, “Should I roast beef tenderloin on a rack?”
The answer is yes!
Credit:BHG / Cara Cormack
Placing the meat on a rack set in a roasting pan keeps it above the juices.
This allows the heat to circulate all around the meat.
How to Cook Beef TenderloinThe Fast Way
What temperature should you cook a beef tenderloin?
If you stick to our basic high-heat method, 425F is your number.
Here’s how to roast beef tenderloin at this temperature.
Tent with foil and let stand 15 minutesbefore carving.
The beef tenderloin temperature will rise to medium-rare (145F) or medium (160F) while it stands.
Naturally, the beef tenderloin roast time will be different for this two-temperature method than for a single-temp method.
For a 2-1/2-pound beef tenderloin, roast the meat uncovered for 20 minutes at 250F.
Then turn up the heat to 425F.
Remove from the oven.
Cover loosely with foil.
Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
Test Kitchen Tip:Cooking beef tenderloin roast in the slow cooker isn’t recommended.
That’s because a slow cooker uses moist heat for cooking.
Dry heat works best for beef tenderloin, making the oven your best option for roasting.
On the other hand, your slow cooker is ideal for conveniently making many otherbeef recipes.
Beef tenderloin comes from the loinunder the backbone and tucked between the rib and sirloin.
Because it’s lean and boneless, it’s a cinch to work with.
Many butchers tie the tail to the middle-center portion to create a bigger roast that will cook evenly.
If you are hosting a small-ish gathering we suggest purchasing the center cut.
It usually weighs 2 to 3 lb.
and has a more uniform shape, which allows for even cooking.
The center cut slices hold their shape well because theyre made up of one muscle, not multiple.
This does not effect flavor or doneness but are less pristine on the plate.
Plan to purchase 6 to 8 oz.
of meat per person.
How to Buy Beef Tenderloin
Beef tenderloin ranges in price from $26/lb.
to $39/lb., depending on grade and location.
Your best bet might be buying at a big-box store.
Heres what to shop for.
Beef tenderloinis indeed expensive.
When served a juicy medium-rare or medium, this cut impresses beef lovers.
Think of a roasted beef tenderloin as your entertaining go-to when only the best will do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly.
You may find beef tenderloin in your store labeled “beef loin tenderloin roast.”
It’s sometimes referred to as chateaubriand, the French term for the center cut of the tenderloin.
Many chefs recommend searing beef tenderloin before slow-roasting it at a low temperature.
A fresh green salad such as thisRadicchio Caesar Saladis always a welcome crunch.
