If you’re hunting for a mouthwatering tenderloin steak recipe, you’ve landed in the right place. As someone who’s grilled, flipped, and savored more steaks than I can count, I can tell you this is the one recipe you need to nail that perfectly succulent, melt-in-your-mouth tenderloin steak. Let’s dive straight into the goodness without any fluff—because, let’s be honest, when you’re facing a beautiful cut of tenderloin, you want the steak to do all the talking.

Table of Contents

Recipe Overview

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Total Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes
Total Time: 25 Minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before we get our hands on that tenderloin steak, make sure you’ve got the right tools for the job. You’ll need:

A cast iron skillet or a heavy-duty grill pan
Meat thermometer
Tongs
Cutting board
Sharp chef’s knife

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Tenderloin steak	4 pieces (200g each)
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Salt	to taste
Freshly ground pepper	to taste
Garlic, minced	2 cloves
Butter	4 tbsp
Fresh rosemary	2 sprigs
Fresh thyme	2 sprigs

Fact: Did you know that tenderloin is one of the most tender cuts of beef? This muscle does very little work, which is why it’s so soft.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Steak

Remove the tenderloin steak from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
Pat the steak dry with paper towels.
Rub each steak with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground pepper.

Note: Bringing your steak to room temperature is crucial for even cooking.

Step 2 – Heat the Pan

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot.
Add a splash of olive oil.

Step 3 – Sear the Steak

Place the steaks in the hot skillet.
Sear each side for 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preference.
Add butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the pan in the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Warning: Keep the kitchen well-ventilated; the searing process can get a bit smoky!

Step 4 – Rest the Steak

Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes before slicing.
This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful.

Note: Never skip resting your steak unless you fancy a dry, tough meal.

Additional Tips

For an extra flavor kick, marinate your tenderloin steak in a mixture of soy sauce, olive oil, and crushed garlic for at least an hour before cooking.
Always use tongs to flip your steak to avoid piercing the meat and losing those precious juices.

Pairing Suggestions

A stellar tenderloin steak should be accompanied by sides that complement its richness. Here’s what I recommend:

Garlic mashed potatoes
Steamed asparagus
A simple arugula salad

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	450
Protein	47g
Carbohydrates	0g
Fat	30g
Cholesterol	125mg
Sodium	110mg

Approximation: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and sizes.

Dietary Information

This tenderloin steak recipe is a superb choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet. For a gluten-free version, just make sure all your seasonings are certified gluten-free.

FAQs about Tenderloin Steak

What’s the best way to ensure my tenderloin steak is tender?

The key to a tender steak starts with proper cooking time. Overcooking can turn even the best cut into a tough chew.

How can I tell when my steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 155°F for well-done.

Are there alternative methods to cook tenderloin steak?

Absolutely! Besides pan-searing, you can grill it over high heat or broil it in the oven.

What should I do if I can’t find tenderloin?

Substitute with another tender cut like ribeye or strip steak; adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can tenderloin steak be marinated?

Yes, marinating can add flavor and tenderness, especially if you include an acid like lemon juice or vinegar.

Is tenderloin steak suitable for a weekly diet plan?

While tenderloin is leaner than some other cuts, its high-fat content makes it ideal for occasional indulgence.

What are some common mistakes when cooking tenderloin steak?

One common mistake is not resting the steak after cooking. Always allow it to rest so the juices can redistribute.

Conclusion

There you have it—a foolproof guide to cooking the perfect tenderloin steak. Simple, straightforward, and absolutely delicious. Remember, the key is in the preparation and letting those fantastic flavors speak for themselves.

Feel free to leave comments, questions, or feedback below—I’d love to hear how your steak turned out!

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