Master the Art of Grilling Beef Tenderloin

    Master the Art of Grilling Beef Tenderloin

 You’ve invited some friends over for a summer barbecue and you want to impress them with an amazing cut of meat. Look no further than the beef tenderloin. This melt-in-your-mouth cut is the perfect choice for your grilling extravaganza. Before you fire up the grill though, there are a few tips and tricks you should know to ensure your beef tenderloin turns out perfectly tender and full of flavor.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to select the best cut of beef tenderloin at the store, the secret to creating an herb crust that will make your guests’ mouths water, how long to grill the tenderloin to reach the ideal internal temperature, and a killer béarnaise sauce recipe to serve alongside. Grilling beef tenderloin does require some precision to achieve a perfect medium-rare, but with a few helpful hints, you’ll be slicing into a gorgeous rosy pink center in no time. Impress your friends with your culinary skills and whip up a meal they won't soon forget. Let’s get grilling!

Choosing the Perfect Beef Tenderloin for Grilling

When it comes to grilling beef tenderloin, choosing a high-quality cut of meat is key. Look for a tenderloin that’s well-marbled, with thin layers of fat running through the meat. This fat will melt as it cooks, keeping the meat juicy. For the best results, select a center-cut piece that’s at least 1 1⁄2 to 2 pounds.

Size matters

A larger cut, around 3 to 4 pounds, is ideal for feeding a crowd and allows you to make extra slices for leftovers. A smaller 1 to 2 pound tenderloin is perfect for a special meal for two. In either case, choose a roast that’s evenly thick from end to end for even cooking.

Freshness first

For the best flavor, choose a beef tenderloin that’s been dry-aged for at least 14 to 21 days. Dry-aging helps break down connective tissues in the meat, resulting in an ultra-tender texture. Look for a roast that’s fresh, with a deep red color and little to no excess moisture in the package. The meat should have a clean, beefy aroma.

Patience pays off

Beef tenderloin can be pricey, so take time to find a high-quality roast that you’ll be proud to serve. Visit a butcher shop or upscale grocer where you have the opportunity to evaluate different cuts of meat side-by-side. Don’t just grab the first roast you see—compare a few options to get the best value for your money. Your patience will be rewarded when you slice into a perfect, juicy grilled beef tenderloin!

Grilled Beef Tenderloin Marinades That Pack a Flavor Punch

If you want to take your grilled beef tenderloin to the next level, marinating it first is key. Here are a couple flavorful marinades guaranteed to make your guests ask for seconds.

Asian-Inspired Marinade

For an Asia twist, combine 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger, and 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or lime juice. Add 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper for some heat. Marinate the beef for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate. The salty-sweetness pairs perfectly with the tender meat.

Robust Red Wine Marinade

For a more robust flavor, whisk together 1 cup dry red wine, 1/4 cup olive oil, 3 rosemary sprigs, 3 thyme sprigs, 2 bay leaves, 5 whole black peppercorns, and 4 minced garlic cloves. Simmer for 10 minutes, then strain and cool. Marinate the tenderloin in the infusion for at least 4 hours. The wine adds richness while the fresh and dried herbs provide an aromatic, earthy undertone.

With marinades this flavorful, the beef tenderloin will shine through in all its glory. All that's left to do is fire up the grill, cook the meat to your desired doneness, and enjoy! Using a flavorful marinade is one of the easiest ways to make grilled beef tenderloin a showstopper at your next cookout. Your guests will be begging you to host another barbecue soon.

Mastering the Grilled Beef Tenderloin Cooking Method

To master grilling beef tenderloin, follow these key tips:

Choose a High-Quality Cut of Meat

Select a cut of beef tenderloin that is evenly marbled with fat for the most flavor and tenderness. Look for terms like “choice” or “prime” grade. Grass-fed, organic or locally-sourced beef tenderloin are also excellent options.

Bring the Meat to Room Temperature

Take the tenderloin out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This will ensure even cooking.

Generously Season the Meat

Coat all sides of the tenderloin generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. You can also rub the meat with olive oil and sprinkle with your favorite herbs like rosemary, thyme, garlic or chili powder for extra flavor before grilling.

Use a Hot Grill and Indirect Heat

Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to 450 F. For charcoal, pile the coals to one side of the grill, leaving the other side empty. Place the tenderloin over the empty side of the grill, away from direct heat. Cover and cook until the internal temperature reaches 125 F for medium-rare, about 25 to 35 minutes.

Flip Only Once

Resist the urge to flip the tenderloin more than once while it's grilling. Flip the meat only a single time while cooking. Flipping too frequently can cause the meat to dry out.

Check the Internal Temperature

The only way to know if the tenderloin is cooked to your desired doneness is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Medium-rare is around 125 F, medium is around 135 F and well-done is around 145 F.

Let the Meat Rest

Let the grilled tenderloin rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps the meat retain moisture. Slice the tenderloin into 1/2-inch thick slices and serve. Enjoy!

Top 3 Grilled Beef Tenderloin Recipes to Try This Summer

Summer and grilling go hand in hand. If you want to impress your guests at your next BBQ, grilling a beef tenderloin is sure to do the trick. Beef tenderloin is a premium cut of meat that is naturally tender. When grilled, it becomes even more flavorful and juicy. Here are three of the best grilled beef tenderloin recipes to try this summer:

Rosemary Garlic Grilled Beef Tenderloin

For extra flavor, marinate the beef tenderloin in a mixture of olive oil, rosemary, garlic, and red wine. Let it sit for at least 2 hours to absorb all the flavors. Discard the marinade and pat the meat dry before grilling over high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side. The rosemary and garlic infuse so much flavor into the meat. Your guests will think you're a gourmet chef.

Chili Lime Grilled Beef Tenderloin

If you want to give your grilled beef tenderloin a bit of a kick, marinate it in a chili lime vinaigrette. Combine chili powder, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cilantro. Pour over the beef tenderloin and marinate for at least 30 minutes. The tangy, spicy flavors pair perfectly with the richness of the beef. Grill as directed until the beef reaches your desired doneness.

Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Beef Tenderloin

Take your grilled beef tenderloin to the next level by wrapping it in bacon before grilling. The bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor and helps keep the meat juicy. To make, simply wrap uncooked bacon strips around the beef tenderloin, securing with toothpicks. Discard the toothpicks before serving. Grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the beef is cooked to your liking. The combination of beef tenderloin and bacon is drool-worthy.

Grilling beef tenderloin may seem intimidating, but with these flavorful recipes, you'll be grilling like a pro in no time. Your guests will surely appreciate your newfound grilling skills and request seconds (and thirds!) of these mouthwatering grilled beef tenderloin recipes. Fire up the grill and get ready for a memorable summer BBQ!

Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly With Grilled Beef Tenderloin

When grilling a perfect beef tenderloin, you’ll want some classic side dishes to serve alongside. Here are some crowd-pleasing options that pair perfectly with this premium cut of meat.

Baked Potatoes

A simply baked russet potato is always a good choice. Prick the potato a few times with a fork, rub with olive oil and salt, and bake at 400 F for about an hour until tender. Top with butter, sour cream, chives, bacon, and cheese. The starchy, filling potato offsets the richness of the beef tenderloin.

Creamed Spinach

Sauteed spinach with a creamy sauce is a delicious accompaniment. Wilt fresh spinach in butter with garlic and shallots, then stir in cream, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and salt and pepper. Simmer until thickened. The earthy, vegetal notes of the spinach provide balance to the savory beef.

Grilled Asparagus

For extra smokiness, grill some asparagus spears alongside the beef tenderloin. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper and grill over high heat, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and tender-crisp, about 5 to 8 minutes. The bright, fresh flavor of the asparagus is a perfect complement to grilled beef.

Twice-Baked Potatoes

For an indulgent side, make twice-baked potatoes. Bake russet potatoes, then cut in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh. Mash with butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, and bacon and spoon the mixture back into the potato skins. Broil briefly until the filling is hot. The creamy, cheesy potatoes pair decadently with grilled beef tenderloin.

Any of these classic side dishes would make a wonderful accompaniment to grilled beef tenderloin. And don’t forget a simple salad to add some freshness. With sides like these, you’re sure to have a memorable meal.

Conclusion

So there you have it, everything you need to know to master the art of grilling the perfect beef tenderloin. With the right cut of meat, a few simple ingredients, and by following these helpful tips, you’ll be serving up a restaurant-quality meal in no time. Grill that tenderloin low and slow, baste frequently with the herb butter to keep it moist, and don’t overcook it. Once it reaches medium-rare, pull it off and let it rest. Your patience will be rewarded, and your guests will be thoroughly impressed. Fire up the grill, pour yourself a glass of bold red wine, and enjoy this special treat. You’ve got this!