Beef Tenderloin Roast with Herbed Garlic Butter Recipe
Introduction
This herbed garlic butter beef tenderloin roast is a succulent and elegant centerpiece perfect for special occasions or a luxurious dinner. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic butter brings out the natural flavors of the tenderloin, creating a dish that’s both simple and impressive.

Ingredients
- 1 center-cut beef tenderloin roast (4 to 4 ½ pounds) (trimmed and tied)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 6 tablespoons softened butter
- 6 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Step 1: Remove the beef tenderloin from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours before cooking.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme. Set this herb butter mixture aside.
- Step 3: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). If the roast is not already tied, slice it in half lengthwise, trim as needed, and tie it up securely.
- Step 4: Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels and season both sides evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Step 5: Heat the avocado oil in a large cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Brown the beef tenderloin on all sides for about 10 minutes in total, creating a golden crust.
- Step 6: Spread the herb garlic butter mixture generously over the top of the beef tenderloin. Transfer the entire pan to the preheated oven.
- Step 7: Roast the beef tenderloin for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness. Insert a probe thermometer if available to monitor internal temperature.
- Step 8: Remove the roast from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Step 9: After resting, remove the twine and slice the tenderloin into 1-inch thick pieces. Serve warm, optionally with horseradish sauce.
Tips & Variations
- Use a meat thermometer to achieve your preferred doneness: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium.
- Substitute avocado oil with olive oil if preferred.
- Try adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the herb butter for an extra layer of flavor.
- Letting the meat rest after roasting is crucial for tender, juicy slices.
Storage
Store leftover beef tenderloin wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F) or in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking. Slicing the roast before reheating helps warm the meat evenly.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the herb butter ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the garlic and herb butter a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bring it to room temperature before spreading it on the roast for easier application.
What should I do if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried rosemary and thyme can be used in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Add them to the butter mixture and proceed as usual.
PrintBeef Tenderloin Roast with Herbed Garlic Butter Recipe
This Herbed Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast is a tender, juicy centerpiece perfect for special occasions. The beef tenderloin is seasoned simply with kosher salt and black pepper, browned to develop a flavorful crust, then roasted with a rich garlic and herb butter. The fresh rosemary and thyme in the butter accentuate the beef’s natural flavors, making this roast succulent and aromatic. Resting after roasting ensures juicy, tender slices every time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Beef Tenderloin
- 1 center-cut beef tenderloin roast (4 to 4 ½ pounds), trimmed and tied
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
Garlic Herb Butter
- 6 tablespoons softened butter
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Bring to room temperature: Remove the beef tenderloin from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare garlic herb butter: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Set this mixture aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat oven and prepare tenderloin: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If not already done, slice the beef tenderloin in half lengthwise, trim any excess fat or silver skin, then tie it back together tightly with kitchen twine.
- Season the beef: Pat the beef dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season all sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Brown the beef: Heat the avocado oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the beef tenderloin and brown on all sides for about 10 minutes total to develop a golden crust, which enhances flavor and texture.
- Apply herb butter and roast: Spread the prepared garlic herb butter evenly over the top side of the browned beef. Place the whole pan directly into the preheated oven. Roast the tenderloin for 15 to 20 minutes depending on your preferred doneness (internal temperature should be 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
- Rest the roast: Remove the beef from the oven and transfer it onto a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes covered loosely with foil. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat giving a tender and juicy slice.
- Slice and serve: Remove the kitchen twine and cut the roast into 1-inch thick slices. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by horseradish sauce or your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Allowing the beef to reach room temperature ensures even cooking throughout the roast.
- Using avocado oil is preferred for its high smoke point, ideal for browning.
- If possible, use a probe thermometer to monitor internal temperature during roasting for perfect doneness.
- Letting the roast rest after cooking significantly improves juiciness.
- Herb butter can be prepared ahead and kept refrigerated.
- Beef tenderloin can be expensive; consider trimming and tying carefully to avoid waste.
Keywords: beef tenderloin, roast beef, garlic herb butter, holiday beef roast, tenderloin roast, beef dinner

