Easy Oven Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter Sauce

When you want a show-stopping main dish that feels luxurious yet surprisingly easy to prepare, nothing compares to Easy Oven Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter Sauce. This elegant cut of beef is known for its buttery tenderness, mild flavor, and ability to impress guests without requiring complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen.

Beef tenderloin is often reserved for holidays, special occasions, or celebratory dinners—and for good reason. When roasted properly, it delivers restaurant-quality results right from your home oven. Paired with a rich garlic butter sauce infused with fresh herbs, this recipe transforms a premium cut of meat into an unforgettable meal that’s both comforting and refined.

The best part? Despite its upscale reputation, oven roasted beef tenderloin is remarkably straightforward. With the right seasoning, proper temperature, and a short resting period, you’ll achieve a perfectly cooked tenderloin that’s juicy, flavorful, and beautifully sliced every time.

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Why Beef Tenderloin Is Worth It

Beef tenderloin comes from the loin section of the cow and is prized for its tenderness. It contains very little connective tissue, which means it doesn’t require long cooking times or slow braising. Instead, quick roasting at a high temperature locks in moisture while creating a beautifully caramelized exterior.

This cut is:

• Naturally tender
• Mild and buttery in flavor
• Perfect for roasting
• Ideal for special occasions

When paired with garlic butter, the subtle flavor of the tenderloin shines without being overwhelmed.

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Ingredients

For the Beef Tenderloin

• Beef tenderloin, trimmed
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• Unsalted butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh rosemary
• Fresh thyme
• Lemon juice

Optional additions:

• Dijon mustard
• Shallots
• Red pepper flakes
• Parsley

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Instructions

1. Bring Beef to Room Temperature
   Remove the beef tenderloin from the refrigerator 45–60 minutes before cooking. This ensures even roasting.
2. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a roasting pan or baking sheet with foil and place a rack on top if available.
3. Season the Beef
   Pat the tenderloin dry. Rub with olive oil, then season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
4. Roast the Tenderloin
   Place the beef on the prepared pan and roast uncovered for 25–30 minutes for medium-rare, or until internal temperature reaches 125–130°F.
5. Rest the Meat
   Remove from the oven, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 10–15 minutes. The temperature will continue to rise.
6. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
   In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Add garlic and cook gently until fragrant. Stir in rosemary, thyme, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
7. Slice and Serve
   Slice tenderloin into thick medallions and drizzle generously with warm garlic butter sauce.

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Internal Temperature Guide

• Rare: 120–125°F
• Medium-rare: 125–130°F
• Medium: 135–140°F

Always remove beef from the oven a few degrees early and allow it to rest.

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Tips for Perfect Oven Roasted Beef Tenderloin

• Always use a meat thermometer.
• Don’t skip resting time.
• Season generously—tenderloin benefits from bold seasoning.
• Slice against the grain.
• Spoon butter sauce just before serving.

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Garlic Butter Sauce Secrets

The garlic butter sauce should enhance, not overpower, the beef. Cook garlic gently to avoid bitterness, and finish with lemon to brighten the richness. Fresh herbs make all the difference here.

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Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Season the beef up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate uncovered.
• Leftovers keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Reheat gently or enjoy cold in sandwiches.

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Flavor Variations

Herb-Crusted: Add chopped herbs and breadcrumbs before roasting.
Peppercorn Crust: Press cracked peppercorns onto the surface.
Mustard Garlic: Brush with Dijon before roasting.
Holiday Style: Add a splash of red wine to the butter sauce.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve oven roasted beef tenderloin with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• Creamy au gratin potatoes
• Simple arugula salad
• Crusty bread

It’s a centerpiece-worthy main dish for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or Sunday dinner.

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Why This Recipe Works

High heat roasting locks in juices, while resting ensures tenderness. The garlic butter sauce adds richness without masking the beef’s natural flavor. It’s a foolproof method that delivers consistent, elegant results.

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Final Thoughts

This Easy Oven Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter Sauce proves that impressive meals don’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to whenever you want to elevate dinner effortlessly.