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Barefoot Contessa Filet Of Beef Recipe

Sharon Brown
Before diving into the juicy details of the Barefoot Contessa Filet of Beef, let’s explore the perfect accompaniments that enhance this delectable main dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 196 kcal

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon coarsely cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 whole beef tenderloin 4 to 5 pounds, trimmed and bound with kitchen twine
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 4 cups heavy cream
  • 3 to 4 ounces crumbled Gorgonzola avoid creamy or “dolce” varieties
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese replacement for Parmesan
  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Start by taking the beef out of the fridge. Let it come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This will help it cook evenly.
  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Season the beef generously with kosher salt, cracked black pepper, and minced garlic. Don’t be shy—this is your flavor base.
  • In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef. Sear all sides until they develop a rich brown crust, usually about 3-4 minutes per side.
  • After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the beef until it reaches your desired doneness—about 20-25 minutes for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check for 130°F (54°C).
  • While the beef is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and simmer gently.
  • Add the Gorgonzola, salt, and pepper, whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Stir in the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, parsley, and lemon juice. Let it simmer for a few minutes more.
  • Remove the beef from the oven, and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more succulent.
  • Slice the beef into equal portions. Drizzle the rich Gorgonzola sauce over each serving. You can add freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Notes

  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Always use a thermometer for perfect doneness. This takes the guesswork out of cooking.
  • Let the Beef Rest: Never skip the resting step. It improves flavor and moisture.
  • Quality Matters: Choose high-quality beef tenderloin. It makes a significant difference.
  • Adjust the Sauce: Not a Gorgonzola fan? Experiment with other cheeses or skip it altogether for a lighter sauce.
  • Plan Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 196kcal
Keyword barefoot contessa filet of beef recipe
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