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barefoot contessa beef tenderloin

Barefoot Contessa Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Sharon Brown
Ah, the summer months. As the sun shines brightly, many of us dream about juicy barbecues and delectable feasts.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 7
Calories 342 kcal

Equipment

  • Small bowl
  • Shallow dish

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 teaspoons sea salt
  • 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 10 to 15 sprigs of fresh tarragon
  • 1 whole beef tenderloin trimmed (around 4½ pounds)

Instructions
 

  • Grab a small bowl. Combine the Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sea salt, and cracked black pepper. Whisk this mixture until it's fully blended.
  • Next, take that beautiful beef tenderloin and place it in a shallow dish. Pour your marinade over the meat, making sure every inch is well-coated. Remember, this is where the flavor starts! Cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour. If you're feeling bold, let it sit longer—up to four hours will deepen the flavor.
  • While the beef lounges in that marinade, heat your grill or preheat your oven to 425°F. If you’re grilling, oil the grates; if you’re roasting, a baking sheet will do just fine.
  • Take the beef out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15—20 minutes. This step ensures even cooking.
  • If using a grill, place the tenderloin directly onto the grates. Sear it for about 5 minutes on each side. If you’ve opted for the oven, place it in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes to reach medium rare. Remember to use a meat thermometer—130°F is your target for that perfect juicy tenderness.
  • Once it reaches that glorious temperature, remove it from the grill or oven. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This trick allows juices to redistribute, ensuring that every bite is flavorful.
  • Slice the tenderloin against the grain into thick medallions. Serve it with a dollop of Basil Parmesan Mayonnaise. This tangy, creamy topping perfectly complements the rich beef, making it a match made in culinary heaven.

Notes

  • Use a good quality mustard: The better the mustard, the more flavor it brings.
  • Always let your meat rest post-cooking to keep it juicy.
  • If you have leftover marinade, boil it for a few minutes before serving as a sauce.
  • For a lovely crust, pat the meat dry before placing it on the grill. This helps in achieving that sear.
  • Consider using fresh herbs if you can find them—they’ll make a noticeable difference.

Nutrition

Calories: 342kcal
Keyword barefoot contessa beef tenderloin recipe
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