Grilled Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
If you’re craving a steak that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, you absolutely have to try this Grilled Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe. It’s a beautiful celebration of simplicity where prime beef tenderloin steaks meet a heavenly garlic herb butter, transforming an everyday meal into something truly special. The rich, buttery topping melts gently over the hot steak, creating layers of flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion or just because, this recipe promises a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to master.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Grilled Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: from the fresh garlic that wakes up your senses to the herbs that bring aromatic depth, every item is essential for that perfect steak experience.
- Beef tenderloin steaks (6–8 oz each): Choose high-quality, well-trimmed steaks for ultimate tenderness and juiciness.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps create a beautiful sear and prevents sticking on the grill.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the beef’s natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat and complexity to the seasoning mix.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Provides a mellow, savory garlic note deeply infused in the meat.
- Dried rosemary or thyme (½ teaspoon): Offers an aromatic herbal essence that pairs perfectly with beef.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, room temperature): The base for the luscious garlic herb butter that crowns each steak.
- Garlic clove (1, minced): Fresh garlic gives the butter a punchy, irresistible flavor.
- Fresh parsley or chives (1 teaspoon, chopped, optional): Adds a fresh, green finish that brightens the rich butter.
How to Make Grilled Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Grill and Steaks
Start by heating your grill to medium-high, aiming for about 425°F (218°C). While it’s warming up, pat your tenderloin steaks dry with paper towels; this helps develop a gorgeous crust. Lightly brush them with olive oil to keep the meat from sticking, then mix your salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary or thyme. Rub this aromatic blend evenly over the both sides of each steak, making sure every bite will be packed with flavor.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
While your grill gets ready, combine softened unsalted butter with the freshly minced garlic and your choice of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This butter is where the magic hides—it melts slowly over the hot steaks to add richness and a lovely herbaceous kick that elevates the whole dish.
Step 3: Grill the Steaks
Place the steaks on your hot grill. Cooking times will vary based on thickness but aim for 4–5 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare, which means an internal temperature of 130–135°F. For the most precise results, a meat thermometer is your best friend here. Resist the urge to flip repeatedly; a good sear will lock in the juices beautifully.
Step 4: Rest and Top with Butter
Once off the grill, don’t rush into slicing. Immediately spoon the garlic herb butter over each steak and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step is absolutely essential because resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender, juicy steak that feels like a warm hug on your plate.
How to Serve Grilled Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or even a few sprigs of thyme add a pop of green and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich garlic herb butter. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt at the end can also enhance the texture and crunch.
Side Dishes
This steak shines alongside grilled vegetables such as asparagus or bell peppers, a fluffy baked potato loaded with sour cream and chives, or even a crisp, refreshing salad that cuts through the richness. These sides create a balanced plate perfect for any season.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or just treat yourself, consider slicing the tenderloin thinly against the grain and fanning the slices on a warm serving platter. Drizzle any leftover garlic herb butter on top and serve with vibrant lemon wedges for an added zingy contrast. It’s rustic yet elegant, making every bite feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Grilled Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe leftovers (and you might!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the garlic butter separate if possible to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezing
While fresh is best with this recipe, you can freeze leftover cooked tenderloin steaks wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months for best taste and texture. Freeze the garlic butter in small portions separately if you want to preserve it too.
Reheating
To gently reheat, set your oven to low (around 250°F), place the steak on a baking sheet, and warm until just heated through, about 10–15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible to prevent drying out. Add fresh garlic herb butter after reheating to bring back that luscious flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for the Grilled Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe?
Yes! While beef tenderloin is perfectly tender, other cuts like ribeye or sirloin can work well too, though cooking times and texture will vary. Adjust seasoning and grill time accordingly.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature between 130 and 135°F. The steak will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
Can I prepare the garlic herb butter in advance?
Absolutely! Making the garlic herb butter ahead saves time and can even enhance flavors as they meld. Keep it refrigerated until ready to use and bring to room temperature before topping your steak.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, the Grilled Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
What’s the best way to achieve a nice crust on the steak?
Patting the steak dry before seasoning and grilling, keeping the grill hot, and not moving the steak too much on the grill surface all help create that sought-after sear and flavorful crust.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe is one of those dishes that brings warmth and joy to the table every time. It’s tender, flavorful, and delightfully simple—perfect for treating yourself or impressing friends. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the unbeatable combination of juicy steak and savory garlic butter that never fails to satisfy.
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Grilled Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Grilled Tenderloin with Butter and Seasoning recipe delivers perfectly cooked, juicy beef tenderloin steaks infused with a flavorful blend of garlic, herbs, and spices. Finished with a rich garlic herb butter, this classic American main course offers an elegant yet simple dish ideal for summer grilling or any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Steaks
- 2 beef tenderloin steaks (6–8 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme
For the Garlic Herb Butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley or chives (chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 425°F (218°C), ensuring it’s hot enough to sear the steaks and lock in flavors.
- Prepare the Steaks: Pat the beef tenderloin steaks dry using paper towels. Lightly brush both sides of each steak with olive oil. In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried rosemary or thyme. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the steaks for enhanced flavor.
- Make the Garlic Herb Butter: In a separate small bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter with the minced garlic and fresh herbs if using (parsley or chives). Set this flavorful butter aside to let the flavors meld.
- Grill the Steaks: Place the seasoned steaks on the preheated grill. Cook for 4–5 minutes on one side without moving, then flip and cook for another 4–5 minutes for medium-rare doneness (internal temperature 130–135°F). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Adjust cooking time if you prefer a different level of doneness.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the steaks from the grill and immediately spoon the garlic herb butter over each steak. Allow the steaks to rest for 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute. Serve hot alongside grilled vegetables, baked potatoes, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Allow the steaks to come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
- The garlic herb butter can be made ahead of time and refrigerated; chill it for easier slicing and spreading.
- Use a meat thermometer to achieve your preferred steak doneness accurately.
- Pair this tenderloin with complementary sides like grilled asparagus or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
