As I stood by the stove, the aroma of sizzling garlic and butter danced through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy bistro. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Juicy Beef Tenderloin Medallions, a dish that’s both gourmet and surprisingly quick to whip up. These tender medallions take center stage, enveloped in a rich garlic herb butter that promises an exquisite dining experience without the fuss of a complicated recipe. Perfect for date nights or family gatherings, this dish elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, allowing you to store leftovers for a convenient, delicious future dinner. Are you ready to impress your loved ones with a plate of culinary mastery? Let’s dive into the mouthwatering details!
Why Are Beef Tenderloin Medallions Special?
Elevated dining experience: These delicious medallions are a fantastic way to impress guests without the lengthy prep!
Quick to prepare: Just a few steps transform simple ingredients into a gourmet dish in mere minutes.
Rich flavor: The combination of garlic and herb butter creates an irresistible savory sauce that perfectly enhances the beef’s natural tenderness.
Flexible serving options: Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables for varied and satisfying meals.
Freezer-friendly: Make a batch and freeze leftovers for an effortless, elegant dinner on busy nights. If you’re enchanted by beef recipes, check out my Beef Taquitos Comfort or the delightful French Onion Beef options for more inspiration!
Juicy Beef Tenderloin Medallions Ingredients
• To create your juicy beef tenderloin medallions, gather these essential ingredients for a gourmet delight.
For the Medallions
- Beef Tenderloin Medallions – Look for cuts with a deep red hue and minimal fat for the best flavor and texture.
- Garlic – Use fresh for a robust aroma; it brings out the best in your sauce.
- Herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary) – These add earthy notes; fresh herbs give a vibrant flavor while dried offers convenience.
- Butter – Unsalted is best to control the seasoning while providing a rich sauce.
- Boursin Cheese – This creamy topping enhances richness; it can be substituted with any soft cheese like goat cheese.
For the Marinade (Optional)
- Soy Sauce – Adds umami depth; perfect for flavor enhancement.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Brings a tangy complexity that complements the beef.
- Brown Sugar – A touch of sweetness; can be swapped with honey for a lighter option.
- Minced Garlic – For extra garlic punch; use the same fresh garlic for consistency in flavor.
Feel free to experiment with these ingredients to craft your ideal juicy beef tenderloin medallions experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Juicy Beef Tenderloin Medallions
Step 1: Preparation
Begin by prepping your beef tenderloin medallions. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove any silver skin for tenderness, then place the medallions in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. If using a marinade, mix soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and brown sugar, and pour it over the beef. Let them marinate for 1–2 hours, and then allow the medallions to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Searing the Medallions
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to reach optimal temperature for a perfect sear. Once hot, add a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking and gently place the beef tenderloin medallions in the skillet. Sear each side for 3–4 minutes without moving them until a rich golden-brown crust forms. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium.
Step 3: Resting the Medallions
Once beautifully seared to your desired temperature, carefully remove the medallions from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 5–10 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring your juicy beef tenderloin medallions are tender and bursting with flavor upon cutting.
Step 4: Sauce Preparation
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let the butter melt and foam, then add minced garlic and your choice of fresh herbs (like thyme and rosemary). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and the garlic is lightly golden, creating a mouthwatering aroma. This garlic herb butter sauce will beautifully complement the flavors of your juicy beef tenderloin medallions.
Step 5: Serving
To serve, plate the rested medallions and drizzle the garlic herb butter sauce generously over them. For an elegant touch, crumbled Boursin cheese or your preferred soft cheese can be added atop the medallions. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete gourmet meal, showcasing your juicy beef tenderloin medallions in all their glory.
Storage Tips for Juicy Beef Tenderloin Medallions
Fridge: Store cooked medallions in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful as they wait for their next appearance at your dinner table.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze medallions in a single layer and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay good for about 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then gently reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the juiciness of your tender medallions.
Make-Ahead: Prepare a big batch and keep leftovers for quick meals; the juicy beef tenderloin medallions are perfect for a gourmet touch on busy nights!
What to Serve with Savory Beef Tenderloin Medallions
Elevate your dinner experience by pairing these succulent medallions with complementary sides that enhance their rich flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, velvety texture contrasts beautifully with the tender beef, creating a comforting combination that’s hard to resist.
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Grilled Asparagus: The slight char and crispness adds a fresh, earthy element that lifts the dish’s richness and brings a pop of color to your plate.
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Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Crispy edges and a cheesy layer provide a delightful crunch, making this side an excellent way to balance the medallions’ tenderness.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light, zesty salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette cleanses the palate and offers refreshing brightness to your meal.
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Red Wine Reduction Sauce: This sophisticated sauce heightens the gourmet nature of the dish, perfectly harmonizing with the beef’s natural flavors for an indulgent touch.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal with this decadent dessert, whose rich molten center is the perfect sweet finale that contrasts with the savory beef tenderloin medallions. Enjoy the delightful balance of flavors in every bite!
Juicy Beef Tenderloin Medallions Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into the kitchen and transform this delightful dish to suit your tastes and occasions!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute Boursin cheese with a creamy dairy-free option like cashew cream for a rich texture without the dairy.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic herb butter for a delightful heat that contrasts with the rich beef.
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Herb Boost: Switch up the herbs! Experiment with fresh basil or oregano to give the dish a completely new flavor profile.
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Grilled Variation: Fire up the grill! Sear the medallions on the grill for a smoky flavor that perfectly pairs with the garlic herb butter.
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Umami Twist: Replace the marinade with balsamic vinegar and add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for an added layer of tangy complexity.
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate the zest of a lemon or orange into the garlic herb butter for a refreshing, bright flavor that cuts through the richness.
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Gourmet Sauce: For an elevated experience, finish off with a red wine reduction sauce, bringing a sophisticated touch to your tender medallions.
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Asian Fusion: Marinate the medallions in teriyaki sauce and serve with stir-fried vegetables, creating an exciting twist on your classic dish.
If you’re looking for more beef inspiration, try the comforting flavors of Cheesy Hot Beef or indulge in the decadent richness of my Gordon Ramsay Beef for a varied menu that delights!
Tips for the Best Juicy Beef Tenderloin Medallions
- Choose Quality Beef: Select well-marbled beef tenderloin medallions with a deep red color for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Marinate Wisely: While optional, marinating enhances flavor. Keep to a short time frame to avoid overpowering the meat.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness; overcooking can lead to dry, tough medallions.
- Let Them Rest: Always rest the medallions after cooking to lock in juices; this ensures your juicy beef tenderloin medallions are moist and flavorful.
- Sauce Savvy: Don’t skip the garlic herb butter; it adds irresistible depth. Consider reducing it for a more concentrated flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These juicy beef tenderloin medallions are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the medallions up to 24 hours in advance by placing them in a zip-top bag with your marinade mix, which helps enhance flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic herb butter sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply sear the medallions as directed for a few minutes, reheat the sauce gently in the same skillet, and drizzle it over the medallions. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Juicy Beef Tenderloin Medallions Recipe FAQs
How do I know when my beef tenderloin medallions are ripe and ready to cook?
Absolutely! When selecting beef tenderloin medallions, look for cuts that are deep red with minimal fat. Freshness is key; ask your butcher for the freshest cuts available. If the meat has a dull color or dark spots, it’s best to avoid it.
What is the best way to store leftover beef tenderloin medallions?
Very good question! After cooking, store your medallions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To retain their flavor, gently reheat them on low heat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or butter to keep them moist.
Can I freeze beef tenderloin medallions? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cooked medallions, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm. Afterward, transfer the medallions to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator and reheat gently in a skillet to preserve their juiciness.
What should I do if my beef tenderloin medallions are overcooked and tough?
Oh no! If your medallions end up overcooked, you can try slicing them thinly against the grain to increase tenderness. Alternatively, drizzle them with a bit of sauce or broth to help mitigate the dryness. Next time, be sure to use a meat thermometer to catch them at 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium; this will help prevent overcooking!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind when serving beef tenderloin medallions?
Yes, definitely! Make sure to check for allergies related to certain ingredients like garlic or butter. For those with lactose intolerance, consider using plant-based butter or omitting the cheese. Always ask your guests if they have any dietary restrictions so that everyone can enjoy this juicy beef tenderloin medallions dish!
Irresistibly Juicy Beef Tenderloin Medallions in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep beef tenderloin medallions by removing silver skin, place in a zip-top bag. If marinating, mix soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and brown sugar, pour over beef, and let marinate for 1–2 hours. Allow medallions to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before cooking.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and sear the medallions for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden-brown. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
- Remove medallions from the skillet and let them rest on a plate, covered loosely with aluminum foil for 5–10 minutes.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add 2 tablespoons of butter, then minced garlic and fresh herbs. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Serve the rested medallions with the garlic herb butter sauce drizzled over them, and garnish with crumbled Boursin cheese. Pair with mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables.
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