Stuffed beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe)

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’ll impress your guests this holiday season, you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffed Beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe) is not only delicious but also a joy to prepare. The tender beef paired with savory stuffing makes it a perfect centerpiece for any festive gathering or even a cozy family dinner. Over the years, this recipe has become one of my favorites for its warmth and comfort—it feels like a big hug on a plate!

Whether it’s Christmas dinner or an intimate celebration, this stuffed beef tenderloin will make any occasion feel special. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation are sure to leave everyone at the table feeling happy and satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning main dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The combination of flavors makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep some elements ahead of time, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spinach, goat cheese, and cranberry sauce creates a mouthwatering filling that complements the beef perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You’ll find everything you need for this stuffed beef tenderloin right here!

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
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Beef

• 1 boneless beef tenderloin (approx. 1 to 2 pounds)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with the stuffing or sides. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the Cheese: Try using feta or ricotta instead of goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Greens: Mix in some kale or Swiss chard with the spinach for extra nutrition.
• Change Up the Sauce: Instead of cranberry, use a homemade herb sauce or chimichurri for a fresh twist.
• Stuff It Differently: Use quinoa or rice as a base for your stuffing for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Stuffed Beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by sautéing your onions in butter over medium heat. Cooking them until they are translucent is essential because it brings out their natural sweetness. Add in garlic and cook until fragrant—this step will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 2: Mix in Spinach and Sage

Once your onions are ready, stir in the fresh spinach and chopped sage. Cook until the spinach wilts down—this will create a lovely green mixture. It’s important to keep stirring so nothing sticks to your pan.

Step 3: Combine with Cheese and Cranberry Sauce

Remove from heat and mix in the crumbled goat cheese and cranberry sauce. This combination adds creaminess and tang that balances beautifully with the savory components of your filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Beef Tenderloin

While your filling cools slightly, take your boneless beef tenderloin and carefully slice it open lengthwise. Be cautious not to cut all the way through so you can create a pocket for that delicious stuffing.

Step 5: Fill and Tie Up Your Tenderloin

Spoon your flavorful filling into the pocket you created in the beef tenderloin. Once filled, tie it up securely with kitchen twine. This step is crucial as it helps maintain its shape while cooking.

Step 6: Season and Roast

Season your stuffed tenderloin generously with salt and pepper before placing it in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Roasting it will result in juicy meat that’s cooked just right. Bake until it reaches your desired doneness—around 60 minutes should do nicely!

With each bite of this Stuffed Beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe), you’ll be reminded of why it’s such a beloved dish in our home. Enjoy making it as much as I do!

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

Cooking a stuffed beef tenderloin can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Cut: Opt for a tenderloin that’s about 1 to 2 pounds. This size is manageable and perfect for feeding four people while leaving room for seconds.
• Sear Before Baking: Searing the outside of the tenderloin in a hot pan before baking creates a beautiful crust and locks in juices, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the beef to rest for at least 10 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat, making each slice unbelievably juicy.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh sage not only adds flavor but also brings a lovely aroma to your holiday meal that will have everyone anticipating dinner.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your filling! Adding different cheeses or vegetables can give this classic recipe a personal twist that reflects your taste.

How to Serve Stuffed Beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe)

Presenting your stuffed beef tenderloin beautifully can make your holiday dinner feel extra special. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or additional sage leaves can add a pop of color and freshness on top of your dish.
• Cranberry sauce drizzle: A light drizzle of cranberry sauce around the plate enhances both flavor and presentation, tying in with the stuffing ingredients.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes, roasted until caramelized. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory beef.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements the richness of the tenderloin perfectly.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cranberries, nuts, and spinach adds texture and balance to your meal while keeping it light.
• Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds provide crunch and elegance while adding vibrant color to your plate.

With these serving suggestions, your stuffed beef tenderloin will not only taste amazing but also look like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen! Enjoy creating lasting memories around the dinner table this holiday season.

Make Ahead and Storage

This stuffed beef tenderloin is not only a showstopper for your holiday table, but it also makes for excellent meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more quality moments with your loved ones.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef tenderloin to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you have more leftovers than you can eat in three days, consider freezing portions.
• Wrap the beef tenderloin slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen beef tenderloin overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Wrap the slices in aluminum foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing and fill the tenderloin a day before. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook!

What side dishes go well with Stuffed Beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe)?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I substitute other cheeses instead of goat cheese?

Yes! Feel free to use feta or ricotta cheese as alternatives if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How long does it take to cook Stuffed Beef Tenderloin (Best Holiday Recipe)?

The total cooking time is approximately 60 minutes, making it perfect for a special dinner without too much fuss.

Final Thoughts

I hope this stuffed beef tenderloin recipe brings joy and warmth to your holiday gatherings! It’s such a flavorful dish that really shines as a centerpiece on your table. Enjoy making it for your loved ones, and don’t forget to savor every bite together. Happy cooking!