Tasty Million Dollar Tenderloin is a rich, elegant beef recipe that turns a simple roast into a truly special centerpiece. This dish features ultra-tender beef tenderloin, perfectly seasoned and seared, then roasted with a luxurious garlic herb butter that melts into every bite. The result is juicy, flavorful beef that tastes like it came from a high-end steakhouse, yet it is surprisingly easy to make at home.
This is the kind of recipe people request again and again for holidays, celebrations, and dinner parties. Once you try it, you will understand why it earns the name Million Dollar Tenderloin.
Why You Will Love This Tasty Million Dollar Tenderloin
This recipe delivers big flavor with minimal stress. Beef tenderloin is naturally tender, so there is no complicated marinade or long cooking time required. The garlic herb butter adds richness and depth without overpowering the meat. A quick stovetop sear locks in juices, while oven roasting finishes the tenderloin evenly.
You will also love how versatile this dish is. It works beautifully for Christmas dinner, Thanksgiving, anniversaries, or anytime you want an impressive main course. Best of all, it slices cleanly and serves a crowd, making it perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients for Tasty Million Dollar Tenderloin
Beef Tenderloin
- 4 to 5 pound beef tenderloin, trimmed and tied
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
Garlic Herb Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish or Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If horseradish is not your favorite, Dijon mustard adds gentle tang without heat. Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount by half. Always choose a high quality beef tenderloin for the best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tenderloin
Trim excess fat and silver skin from the tenderloin if needed. Tie the roast with butcher’s twine at even intervals so it cooks evenly. Season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides. For best results, refrigerate uncovered overnight to help dry the surface and improve browning, though this step is optional.
Step 2: Bring to Room Temperature
Remove the tenderloin from the refrigerator about 1 1/2 to 2 hours before cooking. Letting the meat warm slightly helps it cook evenly from edge to center.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the tenderloin in the skillet. Sear on all sides for about 3 to 5 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, horseradish or Dijon mustard, and chopped herbs. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Roast the Tenderloin
Remove the skillet from heat and rub the garlic herb butter evenly over the seared tenderloin. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes for medium rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 120°F to 125°F.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Transfer the tenderloin to a cutting board and loosely tent with foil. Let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist. Slice into thick medallions and serve.
Pro Tips for Success
- Always use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Searing is essential for flavor, so do not skip it.
- Resting the meat is just as important as cooking it.
- Tie the tenderloin evenly to prevent thin ends from overcooking.
- Slice with a sharp knife for clean, beautiful pieces.
Flavor Variations
- Peppercorn Crust: Add cracked black pepper to the butter for steakhouse flavor.
- Herb Blend: Use parsley, thyme, and rosemary together for a more complex profile.
- Garlic Lover’s Version: Increase garlic to 1 tablespoon for bolder flavor.
- Smoky Finish: Add smoked paprika to the butter for subtle warmth.
- Mustard Forward: Use whole grain mustard instead of horseradish.
Serving Suggestions
Million Dollar Tenderloin pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a crisp salad. For a holiday spread, serve with gravy or a simple pan sauce made from the skillet drippings. Leftovers are excellent in sandwiches, wraps, or sliced over salads.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven at 300°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the meat. This recipe is best enjoyed fresh and is not ideal for freezing.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 560 |
| Protein | 33 g |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| Fat | 47 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
FAQ About Tasty Million Dollar Tenderloin
What makes this tenderloin taste so rich?
The combination of high quality beef, proper searing, and garlic herb butter creates deep, luxurious flavor without heavy sauces.
Can I cook this to medium instead of medium rare?
Yes, roast until the internal temperature reaches 130°F to 135°F for medium doneness. Keep in mind the meat will continue to cook while resting.
Do I need a cast iron skillet?
A cast iron skillet works best for searing, but any heavy oven-safe skillet will work.
How do I know when the tenderloin is done?
A meat thermometer is the most reliable method. Visual cues are not accurate for tenderloin.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can season and tie the tenderloin a day in advance. Cook it fresh for best texture and flavor.
Tasty Million Dollar Tenderloin
Equipment
- oven safe skillet or cast iron pan
- meat thermometer
- butcher’s twine
- cutting board
- sharp chef knife
Ingredients
- 4-5 lb beef tenderloin, trimmed and tied
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp prepared horseradish or Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped
Instructions
- Trim excess fat and silver skin from the tenderloin if needed and tie with butcher’s twine at even intervals. Season all sides generously with salt and black pepper. For best browning, refrigerate uncovered overnight if time allows.
- Remove the tenderloin from the refrigerator 1 1/2 to 2 hours before cooking to bring it closer to room temperature for even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Heat oil in a large oven safe skillet over medium high heat. Sear the tenderloin on all sides for 3 to 5 minutes per side until deeply golden.
- In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, horseradish or Dijon, and chopped herbs. Mix until smooth.
- Remove the skillet from heat and spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the tenderloin. Insert a meat thermometer and transfer to the oven. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 120°F to 125°F for medium rare.
- Transfer the tenderloin to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 15 to 20 minutes. Slice into thick medallions and serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Tasty Million Dollar Tenderloin is proof that simple ingredients and proper technique can create an unforgettable meal. This recipe delivers tender, juicy beef with rich garlic herb flavor that feels luxurious yet approachable. Whether you are hosting a holiday dinner or celebrating a special occasion, this tenderloin is guaranteed to impress.
