Introduction
Christmas is a time for indulgence and celebration, and what better way to impress your friends and family than with a stunning stuffed beef tenderloin? This dish brings together the elegance of tenderloin and the richness of a flavorful stuffing, making it perfect for a festive gathering.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. With a few quality ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a five-star restaurant. It's a centerpiece that will undoubtedly steal the show during your holiday dinner.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef tenderloin
The star of the dish, beef tenderloin is known for its tenderness and rich flavor. It serves as the perfect vessel for the delicious stuffing while remaining juicy and fork-tender when cooked. - 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
Mushrooms add an earthy richness to the stuffing, providing depth of flavor. Their moisture also helps keep the filling from being too dry as it cooks, enhancing the overall texture of the dish. - 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
Onions lend a sweet aromatic flavor when sautéed, balancing the richness of the beef and mushrooms. They also help create a flavorful base for the stuffing mixture. - 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic infuses the stuffing with its aromatic essence, enhancing the dish's overall flavor profile. It complements both the beef and the vegetables wonderfully. - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs act as a binding agent for the stuffing, absorbing moisture and holding the mixture together. They also add a delightful texture to the filling. - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese enriches the stuffing with savory umami flavor, accentuating the savory aspect of the dish. It also adds creaminess and enhances the overall mouthfeel. - 1 egg, beaten
The beaten egg serves as a binder for the stuffing, helping to hold all the ingredients together without making the filling too dense. It ensures a cohesive and easy-to-handle mixture. - Salt and pepper to taste
Salt and pepper are essential for elevating the flavors of the dish. They enhance the natural tastes of the beef and stuffing, providing the final touch to this impressive recipe. - Olive oil for cooking
Olive oil is crucial for sautéing the vegetables without sticking to the pan, while also contributing its rich flavor. It adds a healthy fat component to the dish.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Preheating the oven is a critical first step that ensures even cooking and optimal browning of the beef tenderloin. By setting the right temperature in advance, you prepare the cooking environment for a beautifully roasted dish.
Step 2: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
Sautéing the onions and garlic is about building flavor. Cooking them gently releases their natural sweetness and fragrance, forming a delicious aromatic base for the stuffing that will appeal to all your senses.
Step 3: Add the chopped mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture.
This step is important because it helps to concentrate the mushroom flavor while ensuring they don’t release too much liquid into the stuffing, which could make it soggy. Cook until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and the beaten egg.
Combining the cooked vegetables with breadcrumbs and cheese ensures they absorb the flavors well. The egg adds moisture and helps bind the stuffing while preventing it from drying out during baking.
Step 5: Prepare the beef tenderloin by trimming any excess fat and slicing it down the middle, lengthwise, without cutting all the way through.
Preparing the tenderloin properly is crucial for even cooking and stuffing. The cut allows for maximum filling without compromising the structure of the meat, ensuring each slice reveals a beautiful cross-section.
Step 6: Stuff the tenderloin with the mixture and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
Correctly stuffing and securing the tenderloin is essential to maintaining the integrity of the filling during cooking. This ensures each slice showcases your flavorful stuffing and avoids any spillage.
Step 7: Season the exterior with salt and pepper and sear in a hot skillet on all sides until browned.
Searing locks in the juices and creates a beautiful crust on the meat, which enhances both flavor and presentation. It's a step that adds depth, ensuring a flavorful crust for the finished dish.
Step 8: Transfer the seared tenderloin to a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the desired doneness.
Roasting in the oven allows for gentle cooking and even heat distribution. Monitoring the internal temperature is key; for medium-rare, aim for 130°F (54°C) before resting, ensuring the meat remains juicy and tender.
Step 9: Remove from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Resting the meat is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful tenderloin. Slicing too early may lead to loss of moisture, so patience is vital for the perfect serving.
Elevate Your Stuffing with Seasonal Ingredients
While the recipe calls for mushrooms and cheese, feel free to experiment with seasonal additions such as cranberries or chestnuts. These ingredients not only elevate the flavor profile but also add a festive touch, making your dish even more special for holiday gatherings.
Choosing the Right Cut for Stuffing
Selecting a beef tenderloin of good quality is crucial for ensuring tenderness and flavor. Look for a cut with even marbling, as this will contribute to its juiciness when cooked. Remember, quality ingredients yield the best results in this sophisticated dish.
Presentation Tips for a Show-Stopping Dish
To serve, arrange the sliced tenderloin on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. A drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of coarse salt can enhance the presentation. Remember, we eat with our eyes first, and a beautifully presented dish makes a lasting impression.
FAQs
What should I do if my stuffing is too dry?
If the stuffing seems too dry, add a tablespoon of broth or melted butter gradually until the mixture reaches the desired moisture without becoming soggy.
Can I scale this recipe for a larger gathering?
Absolutely! You can increase the weight of the beef tenderloin and proportionally adjust the stuffing ingredients to match the increased meat volume. Just ensure your oven is large enough to accommodate the larger cut.
How can I ensure my tenderloin is cooked to the right doneness?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F (54°C) before resting. Remember, the meat will continue cooking as it rests.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar flavor profile, or try a creamy, tangy cheese like feta for a different twist.
What if my beef tenderloin is overcooked?
If you've overcooked the tenderloin, serving it with a rich sauce can help add moisture and flavor, making it more palatable.
What can I do if the stuffing spills out while slicing?
To prevent stuffing from spilling, ensure it’s packed tightly before securing. Also, try to slice carefully and slowly to maintain the integrity of the meat.
Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just make sure to let it return to room temperature before stuffing the tenderloin.
What if my mixture is too thick?
If the mixture feels too thick, adding a touch of olive oil or broth can help loosen it. This will make it easier to spread without compromising its integrity.
Conclusion
This quick Christmas stuffed beef tenderloin offers a perfect way to impress your loved ones during the holiday season. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it stands as a testament to the idea that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated.
As you gather around the table, enjoy the flavors and the company of those you cherish. This dish is a celebration of togetherness, making it not just a meal but a cherished memory.
Recipe Card
Creating a Delicious Burrata Pasta Experience
Ingredients
- 400 g pasta spaghetti or fettuccine
- 250 g burrata cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 300 g cherry tomatoes halved
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet.
- Combine the drained pasta with the tomato mixture in the skillet.
- Fold in the burrata gently, allowing it to melt slightly.
- Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
