Introduction
The holiday season is all about sharing delicious meals with loved ones, and there’s no dish more fitting for a festive gathering than a stuffed beef tenderloin. This impressive yet quick-to-prepare dish brings both flair and incredible flavor to your table, ensuring your Christmas celebration stands out.
By using a tender cut of beef filled with savory ingredients, you create an unforgettable centerpiece that requires minimal effort. This recipe not only saves you time but also allows for personalization, enabling you to incorporate flavors that resonate with your family traditions.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef tenderloin
The star of this dish, beef tenderloin is incredibly lean and tender, making it perfect for special occasions. Its mild flavor serves as the perfect backdrop for the rich, savory stuffing. - 1 cup spinach, chopped
Spinach adds both color and nutrition to the stuffing. Its mild flavor complements the beef, while also providing a healthy boost. - 1 cup mushrooms, diced
Mushrooms lend a deep, earthy flavor and a meaty texture to the stuffing, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. - 1 cup ricotta cheese
Ricotta adds creaminess and a subtle tang, helping to bind the stuffing ingredients together while keeping it moist. - 1 egg
The egg acts as a binder, helping the stuffing hold its shape during cooking. It enriches the filling’s texture. - 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall profile and bringing a delightful kick to the filling. - Salt and pepper to taste
Essential seasonings that elevate the flavors, ensuring every bite is well-rounded and delicious. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
Olive oil provides a source of fat that helps to cook the beef tenderloin evenly while also contributing to the flavor of the stuffing. - Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary), for garnish
Herbs add freshness and a festive note to the dish, making it visually appealing and enhancing its flavor.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Starting with a preheated oven ensures that your beef tenderloin will cook evenly. This high temperature sears the outside, locking in juices while allowing the stuffing to cook through.
Step 2: Prepare the stuffing by sautéing mushrooms and garlic in olive oil until golden.
Sautéing the mushrooms and garlic separately allows them to develop their flavors. This step reduces moisture in the mushrooms, preventing the stuffing from becoming soggy.
Step 3: Add chopped spinach to the sautéed mixture and cook until wilted.
Cooking the spinach briefly helps it lose its water content and brightens its color. This will enhance the texture and prevent excess moisture in your stuffing.
Step 4: In a bowl, combine sautéed vegetables, ricotta, egg, salt, and pepper to form the stuffing.
Mixing the ingredients in a bowl helps distribute flavors evenly. The ricotta and egg create a cohesive filling that holds together during roasting.
Step 5: Butterfly the beef tenderloin to create space for the stuffing.
Butterflying involves slicing the tenderloin lengthwise without cutting all the way through, enabling you to open it like a book. This technique increases the surface area for stuffing.
Step 6: Fill the beef with the stuffing mixture and tie it with kitchen twine.
Stuffing the beef ensures that the flavors are infused throughout the meat. Tying the tenderloin helps it maintain its shape and ensures even cooking.
Step 7: Season the outside of the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper before placing it in a roasting pan.
Seasoning helps develop a flavorful crust on your beef while roasting. The seasoning should be applied generously to enhance the dish’s overall profile.
Step 8: Roast the stuffed tenderloin in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes.
Roasting at this temperature allows the meat to brown nicely while accessing the juiciness within. Using a meat thermometer ensures it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 9: Let the beef rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Allowing the meat to rest is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute, keeping your tenderloin moist and flavorful when you slice into it.
Step 10: Slice and serve garnished with fresh herbs.
Slicing against the grain ensures tenderness in each bite. Garnishing with fresh herbs elevates presentation, making your dish festive and appealing.
The Charm of Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Stuffed beef tenderloin presents a striking centerpiece for any holiday table, combining elegance with robust flavors. The method of stuffing not only infuses the meat with savory goodness but also allows you to play with seasonal ingredients, making it a versatile choice for both Christmas and other celebrations. This dish strikes a balance between homey comfort and gourmet sophistication.
Savory Stuffing Variations
One of the joys of this recipe lies in the versatility of the stuffing. While spinach and mushrooms provide a great base, you can easily incorporate ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, or even prosciutto for added layers of flavor. Personalizing the stuffing to reflect your family's taste preferences or holiday traditions can make this dish even more special.
Creating a Festive Atmosphere with Your Dish
Dressing up your stuffed beef tenderloin can enhance the festive spirit of your meal. Consider serving it with a red wine reduction sauce or alongside seasonal vegetables like roasted root vegetables or Brussel sprouts. Setting the table with festive decor and thoughtfully plated dishes elevates the dining experience, making the meal memorable.
FAQs
What should I do if my stuffing is too dry?
If the stuffing feels dry, consider adding a bit more ricotta cheese or a splash of broth before stuffing the tenderloin to ensure moistness.
Can I scale this recipe for a larger gathering?
Absolutely! Just increase the quantity of beef and stuffing ingredients proportionally, ensuring you have a larger roast and ample filling.
What if my tenderloin is overcooked?
If overcooked, the tenderloin will be less tender. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer and pull it at about 140°F (60°C) for medium-rare.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the stuffing?
Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile while maintaining creaminess.
What can I do if my mushrooms release too much moisture?
Ensure you sauté the mushrooms over medium-high heat to help them release and evaporate moisture quickly before adding them to the stuffing.
Can I add nuts to the stuffing for extra crunch?
Adding chopped walnuts or pecans can introduce a delightful crunch and depth to your stuffing, but be sure to chop them finely.
Conclusion
Quick Christmas stuffed beef tenderloin is not just a meal; it’s an experience that captivates the senses and brings loved ones together. This dish showcases your culinary skills while allowing you to enjoy the festive flavors of the season with ease.
With its rich flavors and impressive presentation, this tenderloin will surely become a staple holiday recipe. Embrace the joy of cooking and make this celebration special with a dish that speaks of warmth, love, and tradition.
Recipe Card
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.