As I was experimenting in the kitchen last holiday season, the allure of a perfectly rolled roast caught my eye, compelling me to create what I now proudly call the Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin. This remarkable centerpiece not only dazzles with its elegant presentation but also delivers a juicy, flavorful experience that transforms any holiday meal into a true feast. Surprisingly easy to prepare, this recipe is a chef’s dream for wow-ing guests, including those who may usually shy away from beef. With its irresistible combinations of textures and tastes, your family will be raving about this dish long after the plates are cleared. Ready to impress your crew this Christmas? Let’s dive into how to make this stunning dish shine on your table! Why is this beef tenderloin a must-try? Impressive Presentation: This Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is a feast for the eyes, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. Flavor Explosion: The rich stuffing, filled with garlic and herbs, enhances the tender meat’s natural flavors. Crowd-Pleaser: From experienced chefs to casual cooks, everyone will love this dish—especially picky eaters! Time-Saving: You can prepare it in advance, storing it in the fridge until it’s time to roast, making holiday hosting a breeze. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to change up the stuffing by adding some veal or even mixing in a bit of cheese, just like in my Cheesy Ground Beef Melt. Substantial and Satisfying: Serve it with roasted baby potatoes or a light salad, and you’ve got a balanced meal that will leave guests wanting more! Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Ingredients For the Tenderloin Beef Tenderloin – The star of the show! Opt for choice or prime grade for maximum tenderness and flavor. Salt – Enhances the natural taste of the beef, making every bite more delicious. Black Pepper – Freshly ground pepper adds a flavorful kick that complements the meat beautifully. For the Stuffing Breadcrumbs – This forms the base of your stuffing, providing texture and structure. Seasoned ones can boost the flavor even more! Garlic – Fresh garlic adds depth and aroma; however, garlic powder can work well if needed. Onion – Sautéed onions bring sweetness to the stuffing; shallots are a milder substitute if desired. Butter – Adds moisture and richness; for a lighter option, olive oil can be used instead. Fresh Parsley – Offers a pop of color and freshness; feel free to swap it for thyme or rosemary for a flavor twist. Expert Touches Cooking Twine – Essential for securing the rolled tenderloin, preventing stuffing from escaping during roasting. Olive Oil – Use for drizzling over the surface before roasting, promoting a lovely caramelization. This Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is not just about flavors; it’s about creating cherished memories around the table, so gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will ensure a beautifully caramelized exterior on your Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin. While the oven heats up, take a moment to gather all your ingredients and equipment, including a roasting pan, wire rack, and kitchen twine, so you’re ready to start cooking. Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped onion, melted butter, and freshly chopped parsley. Ensure all ingredients are well mixed, as this stuffing will provide bursts of flavor throughout the tenderloin. Set the stuffing aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the beef. Step 3: Slice the Beef Tenderloin Take your beef tenderloin and slice it lengthwise along one side to create a pinwheel shape. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you’re looking for a uniform thickness. Unroll the tenderloin gently on a clean surface so it lays flat, providing a perfect canvas for your stuffing. Step 4: Spread the Stuffing Evenly spread the stuffing mixture across the laid-out beef tenderloin, covering the surface entirely to maximize flavor. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges to prevent the stuffing from spilling out during rolling. This step is crucial for achieving that impressive presentation when you slice into your Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin. Step 5: Roll and Secure the Tenderloin Starting from one end, carefully roll the tenderloin back up tightly, ensuring the stuffing stays inside. Once fully rolled, secure the beef with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals to hold its shape during roasting. This will keep the stuffing intact and make your cooked tenderloin easier to slice. Step 6: Season the Roll Generously season the exterior of your rolled tenderloin with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This seasoning not only enhances the flavor but also helps create a delicious crust as it roasts. Make sure you cover all sides for an even flavor profile on your Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin. Step 7: Roast the Beef Place the secured beef tenderloin in a roasting pan fitted with a wire rack. This allows for even cooking all around. Roast in the preheated oven for about 50 to 70 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and aim to remove it when the internal temperature reaches 10 degrees below your desired doneness, typically around 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare. Step 8: Rest the Beef Once your Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is done roasting, remove it from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting period is essential as it helps retain the juices, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful for your holiday gathering. Expert Tips for Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Choose Quality Beef: Select a choice or prime grade tenderloin for the best flavor and tenderness; this is the star of your dish! Room Temperature: Allow the beef to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking; this ensures even cooking throughout. Tightly Rolled: Roll the tenderloin tightly and secure it well with kitchen twine; this prevents the stuffing from escaping during roasting. Thermometer Trick: Use a reliable meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for around 125°F for medium-rare. Resting Matters: Don’t skip the resting period after roasting; it helps keep the juices locked in, creating a juicy Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin. Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize your stuffed beef tenderloin to suit your taste! Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, to the stuffing for a deliciously gooey surprise in every bite. The melty goodness elevates the dish to new heights! Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with a large portobello mushroom cap for a meaty texture, perfect for vegans or vegetarians. Fill it with a hearty stuffing mix to make it shine! Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the stuffing for a fragrant experience that tantalizes the taste buds. These herbs are often found in classic holiday dishes, making them an excellent choice! Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper to the stuffing for a zesty twist. The heat will delight those who enjoy a little spice in their holiday feast. Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pine nuts, for added crunch and richness in the stuffing. This introduces a delightful texture that can surprise your guests. Fruity Surprise: Mix in dried cranberries or apricots with your breadcrumbs for a sweet and savory flavor combination. This unexpected touch will brighten your holiday table, just like a colorful ornament. Meat Medley: Use a combination of beef and pork in the stuffing for a richer flavor profile. This duo can give your dish a satisfying depth, reminiscent of festive gatherings. With these variations, your Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin will be a delightful conversation starter that keeps friends and family coming back for more, much like my own Ground Beef Enchiladas. Enjoy the culinary adventure! Make Ahead Options These Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef tenderloin by stuffing and rolling it up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the rolling step, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. The stuffing will stay flavorful, and the beef will be just as juicy when cooked. When you’re ready to serve, simply remove the wrapping, season, and roast as directed. This means less stress on your holiday cooking day, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities with loved ones! How to Store and Freeze Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Fridge: Store leftover stuffed beef tenderloin in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: If you want to freeze the tenderloin, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, place the tenderloin in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, about 20-25 minutes. This helps retain moisture and flavor in your Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin. What to Serve with Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin As you prepare to showcase this delicious centerpiece, consider delightful options that elevate the entire meal experience. Roasted Baby Potatoes: These crispy potatoes add a rustic touch, perfectly balancing the richness of the tenderloin with their golden, buttery flavor. Mixed Roasted Vegetables: Colorful carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips bring vitality to your plate, while their caramelized sweetness complements the hearty beef. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture and garlic flavor enhance the beef’s richness, making each bite a luxurious experience. Light Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the beef, offering a refreshing palate cleanser. Savory Mushroom Risotto: This creamy, umami-packed dish marries well with beef, adding a delightful depth and a comforting texture contrast. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs provides a light and aromatic side that offsets the beef’s heaviness nicely. Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tart cranberry sauce adds a bright, festive note, complementing the savory flavors of the dish beautifully. Red Wine: A full-bodied Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon elevates the meal, enhancing the flavors of the beef while providing a warm touch to your holiday gathering. Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Recipe FAQs How do I choose the perfect beef tenderloin? Selecting the right beef tenderloin is crucial for an impressive dish. Look for choice or prime grade beef, as these options provide superior tenderness and flavor. The tenderloin should have a consistent thickness, which ensures even cooking and prevents overdone edges. Avoid any cuts with dark spots or irregular shapes that could compromise cooking. How should I store leftover stuffed beef tenderloin? After enjoying your delightful dinner, store any leftover stuffed beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure it cools completely before sealing. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it deliciously convenient for enjoying the next day, perhaps in a savory sandwich or salad! Can I freeze stuffed beef tenderloin? Absolutely! To freeze your Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin, first let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This method prevents freezer burn and preserves the flavors. It can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. What’s the best way to reheat leftover stuffed beef tenderloin? Reheating is simple! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the tenderloin on a baking dish. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it moist. Heat it for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until warmed through. This method not only revitalizes flavors but also helps maintain the tenderness of your Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin. How can I adjust the recipe for dietary needs? If you’re catering to specific dietary preferences, there are several adjustments you can make. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the stuffing. If you’re cooking for someone with garlic allergies, consider eliminating it or using a garlic substitute such as asafoetida. Additionally, you can swap parsley for other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro, depending on your guests’ taste preferences. What if my beef tenderloin isn’t cooking evenly? Very common, but manageable! Ensure that the tenderloin is rolled tightly and secured properly with kitchen twine. A reliable meat thermometer is a must to avoid uneven cooking. If you notice the outside is browning too quickly while the inside remains undercooked, turn down the oven temperature and cover the roast loosely with foil, allowing it to cook more evenly. Maintaining a consistent and appropriate cooking environment is key to your success! Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin to Wow Your Guests This Best Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is an impressive and flavorful centerpiece that will wow your guests this holiday season. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes minsResting Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Tenderloin3 pounds Beef Tenderloin Opt for choice or prime grade for maximum tenderness and flavor.2 teaspoons Salt Enhances the natural taste of the beef.1 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground adds flavor.For the Stuffing1 cup Breadcrumbs Seasoned ones can boost flavor.4 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh adds depth.1 medium Onion Chopped; sautéed brings sweetness.4 tablespoons Butter Melted; adds moisture.1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chopped; for color and freshness.Expert Touches1 piece Cooking Twine Essential for securing the rolled tenderloin.2 tablespoons Olive Oil For drizzling over before roasting. Equipment roasting panwire rackKitchen Twine Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Best Christmas Stuffed Beef TenderloinPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped onion, melted butter, and freshly chopped parsley. Mix well and set aside.Slice the beef tenderloin lengthwise along one side to create a pinwheel shape. Unroll gently so it lays flat.Spread the stuffing mixture evenly across the surface of the beef tenderloin.Roll the tenderloin tightly from one end and secure it with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals.Season the exterior of the rolled tenderloin with salt and black pepper.Place the secured beef tenderloin in a roasting pan and roast for about 50 to 70 minutes.Once done, remove from the oven, cover loosely with foil, and allow to rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 45gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 4mg NotesGather your ingredients and enjoy creating this stunning dish that will gather your family around the table for cherished memories. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
