Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, many of us seek ways to impress our guests with festive yet manageable dishes. A Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin fits the bill perfectly, combining elegance and ease. This dish not only delivers on flavor but also showcases the spirit of celebration with minimal stress in the kitchen.
Beef tenderloin is a luxurious cut that often graces holiday tables. When stuffed with a flavorful filling, it creates a hearty and satisfying main course that looks stunning when presented. In this recipe, the tenderness of the beef merges beautifully with a savory stuffing, making it a memorable experience for everyone at your gathering.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef tenderloin, trimmed
The centerpiece of this dish, beef tenderloin is incredibly tender and flavorful. Trimming it properly ensures uniform cooking and a beautiful presentation. - 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
Mushrooms add an earthy depth to the stuffing, enhancing the umami profile of the beef. Their moisture also helps keep the filling rich and succulent. - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs act as a binding agent in the stuffing, helping to hold all the ingredients together while also providing some texture. They absorb juices from the meat, contributing to a moist filling. - 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
Ricotta cheese introduces creaminess to the stuffing, balancing the flavors with its mildness. It also helps bind the stuffing, making it cohesive without being overly dense. - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the dish and elevates the overall taste of the stuffing. The cheese helps to create a crust on top when baked, giving a satisfying finish. - 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Fresh thyme adds an aromatic note that complements the beef and other ingredients well. Its herby flavor enhances the overall Christmas spirit of the dish. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
Olive oil not only provides moisture during cooking but also helps the seasoning adhere to the meat. It aids in browning, which adds flavor and visual appeal. - Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning is crucial for enhancing the natural flavors of the beef and stuffing. It balances the richness of the cheese and the earthiness of the mushrooms. - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the dish. It also helps tenderize the meat and intensifies the overall flavor.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Preheating ensures that your beef tenderloin cooks evenly and achieves a desirable crust. Starting in a hot oven helps to caramelize the outside of the meat, locking in moisture and flavor.
Step 2: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped mushrooms until they are soft and any liquid has evaporated.
Sautéing the mushrooms intensifies their flavor and helps avoid a soggy filling. This step also reduces moisture content, ensuring the stuffing doesn’t compromise the tenderness of the beef.
Step 3: In a bowl, combine the sautéed mushrooms, breadcrumbs, ricotta, Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Mixing the ingredients in a bowl helps evenly distribute flavors. The combination of cheeses and breadcrumbs creates a creamy and cohesive stuffing that contrasts perfectly with the beef.
Step 4: Butterfly the beef tenderloin by cutting it lengthwise, ensuring you do not cut all the way through.
Butterflying allows for a greater surface area to stuff, which enhances the flavor infusion throughout the meat. This technique helps achieve better cooking times for even results.
Step 5: Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over one half of the butterflied tenderloin.
Adding the stuffing on one side enables you to roll the tenderloin back over itself, creating a beautiful presentation. Distributing the stuffing evenly ensures each slice will have a balance of flavors.
Step 6: Roll the tenderloin tightly, securing it with kitchen twine at intervals to hold the stuffing in place.
Securing the rolled tenderloin ensures the filling stays intact during cooking. It also helps maintain the shape of the meat, creating an appealing appearance once sliced.
Step 7: Rub the outside of the tenderloin with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season generously with salt and pepper.
This coating allows for enhanced browning while also infusing flavor directly into the meat. Proper seasoning contributes significantly to the final taste of the dish.
Step 8: In a hot skillet, sear the tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Searing the meat develops a flavorful crust through the Maillard reaction, enhancing the dish's overall appeal. This step also adds layers of flavor that contrast beautifully with the stuffing.
Step 9: Transfer the seared tenderloin to a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked to your desired doneness.
Roasting in the oven completes the cooking process evenly. Using a meat thermometer ensures accuracy—aim for around 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, letting the meat rest afterward for juiciness.
Step 10: Remove the tenderloin from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice into medallions and serve.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful. Slicing into medallions showcases the beautiful stuffing, making for an impressive holiday presentation.
Elevating Your Stuffed Tenderloin
Consider incorporating additional ingredients like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into your stuffing for added flavor and visual appeal. These elements not only enhance the taste but also introduce vibrant colors, making your dish more festive. Adjust the spices according to your preference to create a stuffing that’s uniquely yours.
Pairing Suggestions for Your Dish
Serve the stuffed beef tenderloin with seasonal sides like roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete holiday meal. A robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the richness of the beef perfectly. Consider using a salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the savory notes of the tenderloin and stuffing.
The Art of Presentation
Presentation is key during the holidays, and slicing the tenderloin reveals the beautiful stuffing. Arrange the slices on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Serve with a drizzle of balsamic reduction to accentuate the dish's flavors, turning a simple dinner into a stunning centerpiece for your table.
FAQs
What is the best way to check if the beef tenderloin is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or adjust to your preferred doneness for the best results.
Can I substitute the breadcrumbs with something gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in equal amounts. This maintains the binding texture while accommodating dietary needs.
What should I do if my stuffing is too thick?
If your stuffing feels too thick, add a little extra ricotta or some broth to achieve a creamier consistency. This adjustments will help it spread evenly and retain moisture.
Is it important to let the beef rest after cooking?
Yes, allowing the beef to rest is crucial as it helps redistribute the juices, making each slice more tender and flavorful. Aim for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
How can I adjust the seasoning if the stuffing is bland?
Taste the stuffing mixture before cooking and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or herbs. A splash of lemon juice or vinegar can also brighten the flavors.
Can I prepare the stuffing the night before?
Absolutely, preparing the stuffing in advance is a great time-saver. Just store it in the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before stuffing the beef.
What if my beef tenderloin seems overcooked?
If overcooked, using a sauce or gravy can help add moisture back into the meat when serving. Consider slicing thinly and serving with a flavorful sauce to enhance the overall dish.
Conclusion
A Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin not only showcases the beauty of festive cooking but also emphasizes the joy of coming together over a shared meal. The balance of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable experience for both the cook and the diners.
With careful preparation and attention to detail, this dish is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Let the delicious aromas fill your kitchen, and enjoy the season of celebration with this stunning centerpiece.
Recipe Card
Elevate Your Dinner with Burrata Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet.
- Cook until tomatoes soften and release juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, and stir in torn basil leaves.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the tomato sauce.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the burrata, breaking it into pieces.
- Serve immediately, garnished with more fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
