Introduction
When it comes to festive celebrations, serving a dish that impresses guests is paramount. A quick Christmas stuffed beef tenderloin ticks all the right boxes—it's elegant, packed with flavor, and simple enough to prepare without spending all day in the kitchen.
This recipe combines savory beef with a delightful stuffing featuring a medley of herbs, cheese, and perhaps some sautéed vegetables. It’s a wonderful centerpiece that can make your holiday meal feel special, without causing stress.
Whether you are new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this dish promises both impact and simplicity. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef tenderloin
The star of the dish, beef tenderloin is known for its tenderness and rich flavor, making it perfect for holiday festivities. Choosing a good quality cut ensures a delicious main attraction. - 1 cup spinach, chopped
Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and provides essential nutrients. Its mild flavor complements the beef while keeping the stuffing vibrant and healthy. - 1 cup ricotta cheese
Ricotta brings creaminess to the filling, balancing the flavors and adding moisture, which helps the stuffing hold together inside the tenderloin. - 1 cup breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs serve as a binder and provide structure to the stuffing. They absorb moisture while cooking, enhancing the texture without making it soggy. - 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic imparts a fragrant aroma and rich flavor to the dish. It's fundamental for enhancing the overall taste, making each bite savorier. - 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Thyme offers a warm, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with beef. Its herbal notes elevate the stuffing and bring a delightful fragrance. - Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning is crucial to highlight the inherent flavors of the beef and the stuffing. A good balance of salt and pepper can completely transform your dish. - Olive oil for sautéing
Using olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps in cooking the garlic and greens just right, contributing to a well-rounded stuffing mixture.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the beef tenderloin by trimming and slicing it open to create a pocket.
Trimming the beef ensures that you remove any excess fat that could lead to flare-ups during cooking. Slicing it open carefully creates a pocket for the stuffing, allowing for maximum flavor integration when cooked.
Step 2: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Sautéing garlic in olive oil enhances its sweetness and removes any raw bite. This step is essential as it builds the foundational flavor for your stuffing, making sure the garlic is cooked while releasing its aromatic oils.
Step 3: Add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking the spinach reduces its volume and removes any bitterness, ensuring that it blends seamlessly into the filling. The quick cooking also maintains its bright color and nutritional value, making your dish visually appealing.
Step 4: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Mixing the ingredients in a bowl ensures an even distribution of flavors and textures. The ricotta forms the creamy base, while the breadcrumbs provide necessary structure, ensuring the filling holds up during cooking.
Step 5: Stuff the beef tenderloin with the cheese and spinach mixture and secure it with kitchen twine.
Stuffing the beef properly ensures that the filling stays inside while it cooks, maximizing the flavor infusion. Securely tying it helps retain its shape, allowing for even cooking and an attractive presentation.
Step 6: Season the outside of the beef with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot skillet.
Searing the beef forms a beautiful crust, which locks in juices and enhances the flavor with a delicious Maillard reaction. This step is vital for adding depth and creating a contrasting textural experience.
Step 7: Transfer the seared beef to a preheated oven and roast until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
Roasting helps the beef cook evenly throughout while allowing the filling to heat up. Using a meat thermometer ensures you achieve the perfect doneness, and being mindful of carryover cooking is essential for a juicy outcome.
Step 8: Remove the beef from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Resting the beef allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring they don't run out when you slice it. This step is crucial for maintaining the tenderness and moisture in each piece.
Herb-Infused Flavor Profile
The combination of fresh herbs like thyme infuses the beef and the stuffing with aromatic notes, elevating the dish. Herbs bring a brightness that complements the richness of lasagna, making every bite feel festive and special. Don't skimp on fresh herbs; they can really make a difference in flavor.
Cheese Alternatives for Stuffing
While ricotta serves as a creamy base, feel free to experiment with other cheese options for a unique twist. Cream cheese or goat cheese can also provide beautiful textures and flavors that pair well with beef. Mixing up cheeses can help tailor the dish to your family’s taste preferences.
Pairing Sides for a Festive Feast
To elevate your holiday meal even further, consider pairing your stuffed beef tenderloin with sides like roasted vegetables or a light salad. These accompaniments add color and variety to your plate, balancing the richness of the beef while enhancing the overall dining experience.
FAQs
What should I do if the beef is overcooked?
If you find the beef overcooked, try serving it with a rich sauce or gravy to add moisture and flavor, which can help compensate for the dryness.
Can I use other greens besides spinach for the stuffing?
Absolutely! Kale or Swiss chard can be great alternatives, providing a different flavor and texture to your stuffing while still being nutritious.
What can I do if my stuffing is too thick?
If the stuffing feels too dry or thick, adding a little more ricotta or a splash of broth can help achieve a creamier consistency.
Can I prepare the stuffed beef tenderloin in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and stuffing a few hours in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
What should I do if the meat is tough?
If the meat turns out tough, ensure you slice it against the grain when serving to make it more tender. Additionally, marinating it beforehand next time can help with tenderness.
How can I scale this recipe for a larger group?
To scale the recipe, increase the ingredients proportionally based on the number of guests. Ensure you choose a larger cut of beef, such as a larger tenderloin or even a beef roast, and adjust cooking times accordingly.
Conclusion
Quick Christmas stuffed beef tenderloin is more than just a recipe; it's an opportunity to create memorable moments with loved ones around the dinner table. The combination of tender beef and flavorful stuffing guarantees satisfaction for all guests.
With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, this dish makes festive cooking less daunting. Enjoy your holiday preparations and watch your loved ones delight in the flavors of your hard work!
Recipe Card
Irresistible Cheesy Spinach & Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients
- 20 large cremini or white mushrooms
- 1 cup fresh spinach chopped
- 1 cup artichoke hearts chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add chopped spinach and artichokes; cook until spinach wilts and moisture evaporates.
- In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, sautéed spinach and artichokes, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each mushroom cap generously with the mixture.
- Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
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.
