Introduction to Juicy Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Every holiday season, I find myself reminiscing about the warmth of family gatherings and the delicious meals that brought us together. This Juicy Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is one of those dishes that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart. It’s perfect for impressing your loved ones without spending all day in the kitchen. With its rich flavors and festive presentation, this recipe is a delightful centerpiece for your Christmas table. Trust me, your family will be talking about this meal long after the last bite is gone!
Why You’ll Love This Juicy Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
This Juicy Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is a game-changer for your holiday feast. It’s not just about the taste—though the combination of savory mushrooms, creamy cheese, and tender beef is simply divine. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy cooks. In just under an hour, you can serve a stunning dish that will leave your guests raving. It’s a festive meal that brings joy without the stress!
Ingredients for Juicy Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this festive masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
Beef Tenderloin: The star of the show! This cut is tender and flavorful, perfect for special occasions.
Fresh Spinach: Adds a pop of color and a nutritious touch to the stuffing.
Mushrooms: Finely chopped, they bring an earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
Cream Cheese: This creamy ingredient binds the stuffing together, adding richness.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated for a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little bursts of flavor add a sweet and tangy element to the mix.
Garlic: Minced for that aromatic kick that makes everything better.
Dried Thyme: A classic herb that brings warmth and depth to the stuffing.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and searing, it adds a lovely richness.
Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle before roasting adds a tangy sweetness that balances the dish.
Fresh Rosemary Sprigs: Optional, but they make a beautiful garnish and add a fragrant touch.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the stuffing for a delightful crunch. If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, goat cheese or feta can provide a tangy twist. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Juicy Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Creating this Juicy Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dish ready to impress your family and friends.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures it’s hot and ready for roasting, which is key to achieving that perfect tenderloin.
Step 2: Sauté the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic, finely chopped mushrooms, and fresh spinach until the mushrooms are tender and the spinach is wilted, about 5 minutes. This step enhances the flavors and creates a delicious base for your stuffing.
Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed ingredients with softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. This creamy stuffing is what makes the beef tenderloin truly special.
Step 4: Butterfly the Beef Tenderloin
Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly the beef tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise, but not all the way through. You want it to open like a book, creating a pocket for the stuffing. This technique allows for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
Step 5: Stuff and Roll the Tenderloin
Spread the stuffing mixture evenly inside the tenderloin. Roll it up tightly, ensuring the stuffing stays inside. Secure it with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep everything in place during cooking.
Step 6: Sear the Tenderloin
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed tenderloin on all sides until it’s beautifully browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in the juices and adds a lovely crust.
Step 7: Roast the Tenderloin
Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the tenderloin for a touch of tangy sweetness. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 8: Rest and Slice
Once out of the oven, let the tenderloin rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful. Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired, and get ready to serve a show-stopping dish!
Tips for Success
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it ensures perfectly cooked beef every time.
Let the beef tenderloin rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Don’t rush the sautéing process; it enhances the flavors of the filling.
Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor profiles.
Prep the stuffing ahead of time to save on cooking day.
Equipment Needed
Sharp Knife: Essential for butterflying the tenderloin. A good chef’s knife works wonders.
Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for prepping your ingredients.
Skillet: An oven-safe skillet is ideal for searing and roasting.
Kitchen Twine: Useful for securing the rolled tenderloin; toothpicks can be a quick alternative.
Meat Thermometer: Ensures perfect doneness; a simple instant-read thermometer will do.
Variations
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the stuffing for a burst of flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with a large portobello mushroom cap and use the same stuffing for a hearty dish.
Cheese Lovers: Mix in different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a melty surprise.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or almonds to the stuffing for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted Vegetables: Pair with seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a colorful plate.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes complement the tenderloin beautifully.
Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the flavors of the beef.
Presentation: Slice the tenderloin and arrange on a platter, garnished with fresh rosemary.
FAQs about Juicy Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Can I prepare the Juicy Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just stuff the tenderloin and sear it on the day you plan to serve it. This makes for a stress-free cooking experience!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain its juiciness.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
While beef tenderloin is ideal for this recipe, you can use flank steak or sirloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad make excellent accompaniments. They balance the richness of the beef and add a festive touch to your meal.
How do I know when the beef is cooked to perfection?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare. Let it rest before slicing for the juiciest results!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Juicy Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will draw everyone in, sparking conversations and laughter. Each slice reveals a beautiful medley of flavors, making it a dish that truly impresses. As you gather around the table, sharing stories and enjoying the fruits of your labor, you’ll realize that this recipe is a celebration of togetherness. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let this tenderloin be the highlight of your festive feast!
A festive and delicious beef tenderloin stuffed with a flavorful mixture of spinach, mushrooms, and cheeses, perfect for Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds beef tenderloin, trimmed
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the garlic, mushrooms, and spinach until the mushrooms are tender and the spinach is wilted, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly the beef tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise, but not all the way through, so it opens like a book.
Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the inside of the tenderloin. Roll the tenderloin back up tightly and secure it with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the tenderloin and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the stuffing mixture.
If you prefer a different cheese, goat cheese or feta can be used instead of cream cheese for a tangy twist.
