If you’re searching for an elegant yet approachable dinner that promises to impress, the Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Horseradish Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish brings together the succulent, tender flavor of perfectly roasted beef tenderloin and the zesty, tangy brightness of a creamy horseradish sauce that complements it beautifully. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something special on a cozy night in, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients, this dish truly shines by highlighting quality and freshness. Each component plays a vital role in elevating the flavor, texture, and aroma, making the final result rich and inviting.
- Beef tenderloin (3 to 4 pounds): The centerpiece of this dish, trimmed and tied for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds moisture and helps create a golden, flavorful crust on the beef.
- Kosher salt (2 teaspoons): Essential for seasoning meat deeply and enhancing natural flavors.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Provides a mild heat and aromatic complexity.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a gentle savory note that pairs beautifully with beef.
- Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): Brings an earthy, pine-like fragrance that complements the rich meat.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Forms the creamy base of the horseradish sauce, adding smoothness and tang.
- Prepared horseradish (2 tablespoons): Delivers that classic pungent kick essential for the sauce’s signature flavor.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle sharpness and depth to the sauce.
- White wine vinegar (1 teaspoon): Introduces brightness and balances the creamy elements.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/8 teaspoon): Season the sauce just right to enhance every bite.
How to Make Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Horseradish Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Beef
Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 475 degrees Fahrenheit to get ready for roasting. Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels to ensure a nice crust forms when it’s in the oven. Next, rub the entire tenderloin with olive oil; this not only helps the seasonings stick but also encourages that gorgeous caramelization we all crave. Season it evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and the finely chopped rosemary, making sure every inch is coated with flavor.
Step 2: Roasting the Tenderloin
Place the seasoned beef on a wire rack positioned over a roasting pan or baking sheet—this allows heat to circulate evenly around the meat. Pop it into the preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, depending on how you like your beef cooked. For a medium-rare finish, aim for an internal temperature of around 130 degrees Fahrenheit; it’s the sweet spot for maximum juiciness and tenderness. Once done, remove the tenderloin and tent it loosely with foil. Resting for 15 minutes is crucial here—it lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat so every slice is succulent and flavorful.
Step 3: Making the Creamy Horseradish Sauce
While the beef is resting, whip together the sauce to accompany your roast. In a small bowl, whisk sour cream, prepared horseradish, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper until perfectly smooth. Chill the sauce in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This creamy horseradish sauce provides a cool, zesty counterpoint to the rich beef that’s irresistible.
Step 4: Slicing and Serving
Once rested, carve your tenderloin into thick, beautiful slices. Serve them alongside a generous dollop of the creamy horseradish sauce. The combination of tender beef with the punchy, creamy sauce is an absolute showstopper on any dinner table.
How to Serve Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Horseradish Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or additional rosemary can add a fresh pop of color and aroma to your plate. A few cracks of fresh black pepper on top bring a subtle bite that heightens the flavor contrast beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic roasted baby potatoes tossed in garlic and herbs, buttery green beans, or a refreshing arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. These sides provide texture variety and help balance the richness of the beef and sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, slice the tenderloin thickly and fan the pieces out on a wooden cutting board or elegant platter. Serve the horseradish sauce in a small ramekin on the side, allowing guests to control how much zing they want with each bite. Adding a few sprigs of rosemary or edible flowers elevates the look and makes it feel truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store the beef and horseradish sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The tenderloin keeps best within two to three days, maintaining its flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked beef tenderloin slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. However, for best flavor and texture, it’s ideal to consume within one month. The horseradish sauce freezes less well due to its creamy base, so it’s best made fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
To gently reheat, warm your beef slices in a low oven or covered skillet to prevent drying out, aiming for just enough heat to warm through without cooking further. Serve immediately with chilled horseradish sauce to replicate that perfect contrast of temperatures and textures.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While beef tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you could use a beef strip loin or ribeye roast. Just keep in mind cooking times and resting needs may vary.
How spicy is the horseradish sauce?
The sauce delivers a mild to moderate spicy kick that awakens your palate without overpowering the beef; you can adjust the amount of prepared horseradish to suit your taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Horseradish Sauce Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious choice for gluten-sensitive diners.
Can I prepare the horseradish sauce in advance?
Absolutely. The horseradish sauce actually benefits from being made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
What’s the best way to check if the beef is done?
An instant-read meat thermometer is your best friend here. Aim for an internal temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare, and remember the beef will continue cooking slightly as it rests.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Horseradish Sauce Recipe is truly a classic that elevates any meal into a memorable occasion. From the simple yet powerful ingredients to the mouthwatering interplay of flavors, it’s a dish that I can’t recommend enough. Give it a try—you’ll be rewarded with tender, juicy beef and a sauce that adds just the right zing to keep you coming back for more.
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Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Horseradish Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus 15 minutes resting)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A succulent roasted beef tenderloin seasoned with rosemary and garlic, paired with a tangy and creamy horseradish sauce. Perfect for special occasions and holiday dinners, this elegant main course balances rich flavors with a smooth, zesty accompaniment.
Ingredients
Beef Tenderloin
- 1 (3 to 4-pound) whole beef tenderloin, trimmed and tied
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
Horseradish Sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Beef: Preheat your oven to 475°F. Pat the beef tenderloin dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear.
- Season the Tenderloin: Rub the entire surface of the beef with olive oil. Evenly season it with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and freshly chopped rosemary to infuse it with flavor.
- Roast the Beef: Place the tenderloin on a wire rack set inside a roasting pan or baking sheet to allow even heat circulation. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare doneness.
- Rest the Meat: Remove the beef from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15 minutes; this helps the juices redistribute, making the meat tender and juicy.
- Prepare Horseradish Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, prepared horseradish, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Chill the sauce in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the tenderloin into desired portions and serve alongside the chilled creamy horseradish sauce for a delicious complement.
Notes
- Use an instant-read thermometer for precise doneness and to avoid overcooking.
- Allowing the beef to rest after roasting ensures juiciness and better texture.
- The horseradish sauce can be made up to a day in advance and stored covered in the fridge to enhance flavors.
