This Garlic Herb Beef Tenderloin paired with a rich, Creamy Mushroom Sauce is an elegant yet easy dish, perfect for special occasions or indulgent weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Beef Tenderloin:
- 1.5 lbs beef tenderloin steak (about 2 steaks, 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Directions
1. Season the Beef Tenderloin
- Rub the beef tenderloin steaks with olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Let the steaks rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to enhance flavor and ensure even cooking.
2. Cook the Steaks
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time for your preferred doneness.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet, cover loosely with foil, and let them rest for 5-10 minutes.
3. Prepare the Mushroom Sauce
- In the same skillet, add butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown and tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Create the Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream, beef broth, and Dijon mustard.
- Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to infuse the sauce with flavor.
- Simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve
- Place the beef tenderloin steaks on plates.
- Spoon the creamy mushroom sauce generously over the steaks.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip Resting: Allowing the steaks to rest ensures the juices redistribute evenly, making the meat tender and flavorful.
- Choose the Right Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms are great, but feel free to use wild mushrooms like shiitake or oyster for added depth.
- Adjust Sauce Thickness: For a thicker sauce, simmer longer. For a thinner sauce, add a splash more beef broth.
- Temperature Guide: Use a meat thermometer for precision:
- Medium-Rare: 135°F
- Medium: 145°F
FAQs
Can I use another cut of beef?
Yes, filet mignon or sirloin are excellent alternatives to beef tenderloin for this recipe.
What sides pair well with this dish?
This dish is beautifully complemented by garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered asparagus.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the mushroom sauce can be made earlier and reheated gently before serving. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a combination of milk and a touch of butter can be used for a lighter sauce, though the texture may vary.
Conclusion
This Garlic Herb Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish you can effortlessly recreate at home. The tender, flavorful beef paired with the luscious mushroom sauce is sure to impress your family or guests. Serve it with your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal.
Enjoy your gourmet experience!