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    You are here: Home » Beef Recipes » Best Damn Beef Tenderloin

    Best Damn Beef Tenderloin

    Last Modified: December 10, 2025

    Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

    This Beef Tenderloin recipe is one of the best and easiest ways to cook a luxurious cut of meat. We start by searing it at a high temperature, and then the beef roasts to a perfect medium-rare in the oven. It’s great for those special occasions, whether it’s a celebration or when you feel like treating yourself to something fancy at home.

    Sliced beef tenderloin presented on a plate with fresh thyme sprigs.

    Easy Melt-In-Your-Mouth Beef Tenderloin

    Every now and then, I love to splurge on some fancy beef tenderloin. Despite having little fat, it’s renowned as the most tender cut of beef. But if it’s your first time making it, don’t be scared off by its prestige. This simple recipe will guide you step-by-step to cook the perfect beef tenderloin every time!

    To start, I always sear the beef tenderloin in a hot skillet. Searing creates a beautiful crust on the outside, locking in the juices and adding a deep, savory flavor. Once it’s browned, I transfer it to the oven to roast until the inside is deliciously tender and juicy. Master it, and you’ll never look back!

    Need more beef recipe ideas? Try these 20 Easy Beef Recipes to Satisfy Any Craving.

    Ingredients for best damn beef tenderloin.

    Made with Only 3 Ingredients

    1. Beef tenderloin: Grab a whole tenderloin that’s already peeled and trimmed. You can always peel and trim it yourself too.
    2. High-temp oil: Since we are cooking at a high temperature, use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil.
    3. Salt & pepper mix: All you need to season your beef! Try my mix here.

    Try My Beef Tenderloin Sauce!

    Nothing completes a beef tenderloin quite like a delicious sauce. My Beef Tenderloin Sauce uses the leftover beef scraps and pan drippings to create a rich, savory base. Combined with a red wine reduction and fresh herbs, it adds depth and aroma for a true restaurant-quality dish.

    Sliced beef tenderloin on a cutting board with fresh thyme sprigs.

    Preparation

    First, place your tenderloin on a sheet pan or cutting board. Then, generously rub the salt and pepper mix all over the meat, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

    Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours for deeper seasoning.

    Rub the tenderloin with a high-temperature oil, then get a large sauté pan nice and hot over high heat.

    Rubbing oil on a whole beef tenderloin.

    Cooking

    Next, carefully place the tenderloin in the hot pan and sear each side for 3-5 minutes. Once done, transfer the tenderloin to a baking rack set over a sheet pan.

    Raw beef tenderloin searing in a skillet.
    Searing beef tenderloin on a skillet.

    Roast at 350°F for 10-12 minutes per pound, or until the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 125°F with an instant-read thermometer.

    Seared beef tenderloin on a baking rack ready to go in the oven.

    Serving

    Keep the tenderloin on the rack and rest for 20 minutes. This will give you a perfect medium-rare center, with the ends being a little more done. Enjoy!

    Sliced beef tenderloin on a cutting board with fresh thyme sprigs.

    Great Sides to Go with Beef Tenderloin

    While your beef tenderloin roast is definitely the star of the show, you can’t go wrong with a few tasty side dishes. My Best Damn Mashed Potatoes or Roasted Rosemary and Garlic Potatoes are always a hit. It would also be amazing with some roasted veggies like Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus or Garlic Parmesan Broccoli.

    Sliced beef tenderloin presented on a plate with fresh thyme sprigs.

    Storage & Reheating

    If you have any leftover beef tenderloin, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It should last for up to 3 days.

    To reheat, you can either slice it cold and heat individual portions in the microwave for about a minute or two, or you can gently reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

    Print

    Recipe

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    Sliced beef tenderloin presented on a plate with fresh thyme sprigs.

    Best Damn Beef Tenderloin


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    • Author: Jason N.
    • Total Time: 42 minutes
    • Yield: 6-8 servings
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    Description

    This beef tenderloin recipe is first seared to create a flavorful crust, then roasted to perfection. A simple way to prepare a fancy, melt-in-your-mouth meal!


    Ingredients

    • Peeled and trimmed beef tenderloin
    • 3 oz high-temp oil
    • 3 tablespoons salt and pepper mix

    Instructions

    1. Place the tenderloin on a sheet pan or cutting board. Rub the salt and pepper mix all over the meat, coating it evenly.
    2. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours for deeper seasoning.
    3. Rub the high-temperature oil all over the tenderloin, then heat a large sauté pan over high heat.
    4. Carefully place the tenderloin in the hot pan and sear each side for 3-5 minutes. Once done, transfer the tenderloin to a baking rack set over a sheet pan.
    5. Roast at 350°F for 10-12 minutes per pound, or until the thickest part reaches 125°F internally.

    Notes

    If you have any leftover beef tenderloin, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It should last for up to 3 days.

    • Rest Time: 20 minutes
    • Cook Time: 22 minutes
    • Category: Dinner
    • Method: Stovetop & Oven
    • Cuisine: American

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    Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    Jason of Recipeteacher.com

    Hi, I’m Jason and i’m here to help you make easy, delicious homemade recipes. My approach is to provide the easy-to-understand instructions, use simple ingredients, and have you make the best meals possible.

    More about me →

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