Stuffed beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe)

If you’re looking for a special main dish for your Christmas dinner, you’ve come to the right place! This stuffed beef tenderloin recipe has become my go-to holiday centerpiece over the years. It’s not just about flavor; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table with family and friends. The combination of savory ingredients and tender beef makes this dish feel truly festive and worthy of any gathering.

This delicious recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Trust me, once you try this stuffed beef tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe), it will quickly become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this stunning dish ready without stress.
• Family-friendly appeal: The mix of flavors makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep some elements ahead of time, making your day easier on special occasions.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of sage, spinach, and goat cheese creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! These items not only create a delightful meal but also fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas as they cook together.

For the Stuffing

• 1 sweet onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
• 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 6 ounces crumbled goat cheese

For the Beef

• 1 boneless beef tenderloin (approx. 1 to 2 pounds)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

What I love about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have or your family’s tastes.

• Swap the cheese: If goat cheese isn’t your thing, try feta or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can be mixed into the stuffing for an extra crunch.
• Change the greens: Kale or Swiss chard works beautifully instead of spinach if you’re looking for something different.
• Season it up: Try adding some red pepper flakes or Italian herbs to give the stuffing an added kick.

How to Make Stuffed beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by sautéing the sweet onions in butter over medium heat until they are soft and translucent. This step is crucial because it brings out their natural sweetness, which balances perfectly with the savory ingredients we’ll add next.

Step 2: Add Spinach and Herbs

Once your onions are ready, add in the chopped garlic, fresh sage, and spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts down. This not only adds vibrant color but also infuses the mixture with beautiful herbaceous notes that elevate our stuffing.

Step 3: Combine with Cheese and Cranberry Sauce

Now it’s time to stir in that creamy crumbled goat cheese and luscious cranberry sauce! Mixing these ingredients together creates a wonderfully rich filling that complements our tender beef so well.

Step 4: Prepare the Beef Tenderloin

While you let that filling cool slightly, season your boneless beef tenderloin generously with salt and pepper. Make a pocket in the center by slicing it lengthwise without cutting all the way through. This step is essential because it creates space for our delicious stuffing!

Step 5: Stuff and Tie

Carefully stuff your tenderloin with that flavorful mixture we prepared earlier. Once filled, tie it up using kitchen twine to keep everything snug inside while cooking. This helps retain moisture during roasting, ensuring every bite is juicy!

Step 6: Roast & Serve

Preheat your oven and roast your stuffed tenderloin until it reaches your desired doneness. Letting it rest before slicing allows those juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a perfectly succulent dish. Serve slices drizzled with any pan juices for an extra burst of flavor!

And there you have it—a beautiful stuffed beef tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe) that will surely impress at any holiday gathering! Enjoy every moment spent sharing this wonderful meal with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe)

Creating the perfect stuffed beef tenderloin is easier than you think, and these pro tips will ensure your dish shines at the holiday table!

• Choose the right beef: Opt for a high-quality, well-marbled beef tenderloin. This not only enhances flavor but also ensures tenderness during cooking.
• Sear before baking: Searing the beef in a hot skillet before transferring it to the oven creates a beautiful crust and locks in moisture, resulting in a juicier final product.
• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the tenderloin to rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This step helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat, making every slice flavorful and juicy.
• Season generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! A good seasoning enhances all the flavors of your stuffing and brings out the natural taste of the beef.
• Experiment with stuffing ingredients: While this recipe features spinach and goat cheese, feel free to experiment with other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or different herbs to customize your dish!

How to Serve Stuffed beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe)

Presentation can elevate your stuffed beef tenderloin from delicious to absolutely stunning. Here are some ideas on how to serve this festive dish that will impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling fresh sage or parsley on top adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Cranberry drizzle: A light drizzle of cranberry sauce over the sliced tenderloin not only enhances presentation but also ties back to the stuffing’s flavors.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized pairs wonderfully with the richness of the beef.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that balances out the savory flavors of your main dish.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a light contrast to the stuffed tenderloin.
• Green beans almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add crunch and brightness, making them an excellent accompaniment to this hearty meal.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your stuffed beef tenderloin is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition! Enjoy every moment around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This stuffed beef tenderloin is not only a showstopper for special occasions, but it’s also fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time, making it easier to serve during your holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed beef tenderloin to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, slice the stuffed beef tenderloin into portions.
• Wrap each portion individually with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slices in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish.

Can I make Stuffed beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe) ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing and fill the beef tenderloin a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it.

What sides pair well with Stuffed beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe)?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Consider also serving cranberry sauce on the side for a delightful contrast.

Can I use different cheese in the Stuffed beef Tenderloin?

Absolutely! While goat cheese adds a nice tangy flavor, you could substitute it with feta cheese or even a creamy ricotta for a different taste experience.

Is there a way to adjust this recipe for larger gatherings?

Definitely! Simply increase the size of your beef tenderloin and proportionately adjust the ingredients for stuffing. It’s easy to scale up!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try this stuffed beef tenderloin recipe during your next holiday gathering! It’s truly a special dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Remember, cooking should be enjoyable; take your time and savor each step. I can’t wait for you to experience how delicious this recipe is—happy cooking!