Oven-Baked beef Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce

If you’re looking for a meal that feels special yet is incredibly easy to prepare, you’ve come to the right place! This Oven-Baked Beef Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to impress your family or even for a cozy gathering with friends. The tender beef melts in your mouth, and the creamy Dijon sauce adds a delightful touch of flavor that truly elevates the dish.

What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up an elegant meal that looks like it came straight from a restaurant. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’s bound to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Elegant Presentation: The beef tenderloin looks stunning on any plate, making it ideal for entertaining guests.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy Dijon sauce and tender beef creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the flavors here—making it perfect for family dinners!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the sauce in advance, which saves time on busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to creating this delightful oven-baked beef tenderloin, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Beef

• 1 ½ lbs beef tenderloin
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adjust it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the Protein: If beef isn’t your thing, try using chicken breast or turkey tenderloin instead for a lighter option.
• Add Veggies: Toss some seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans into the oven alongside the beef for a complete meal.
• Change Up the Sauce: Experiment with different mustards—try whole grain or spicy brown for an exciting twist!
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.

How to Make Oven-Baked Beef Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating up, take your beef tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. Rubbing it down with olive oil and seasoning it generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme will help create a flavorful crust as it cooks. This step is essential because those spices really enhance the natural flavors of the meat.

Step 2: Sear the Tenderloin

In a hot skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sear each side of the beef tenderloin until it’s nicely browned—about 3-4 minutes per side. This browning process locks in juices and adds depth to the flavor profile.

Step 3: Bake in the Oven

Once seared on all sides, transfer the beef tenderloin to a baking dish and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (135°F for medium-rare). Remember that carrying over cooking will occur once you remove it from the oven!

Step 4: Make the Dijon Cream Sauce

While your tenderloin is baking away, let’s whip up that creamy sauce! In another skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Then pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Add in Dijon mustard along with salt and black pepper. Let this simmer gently until slightly thickened—this should only take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once your beef has rested for about 5 minutes after baking (this helps keep it juicy), slice it into medallions and drizzle that luscious Dijon cream sauce over top. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color. Serve immediately and watch everyone enjoy!

I hope you love making this Oven-Baked Beef Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce as much as I do! It’s sure to become an instant favorite around your dinner table too!

Pro Tips for Making Oven-Baked Beef Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce

Making the perfect oven-baked beef tenderloin is simpler than you might think! Here are some tips to help you achieve a succulent and flavorful dish.

• Use room temperature beef: Allow your beef tenderloin to sit out for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly throughout, ensuring a juicy center.
• Invest in a meat thermometer: Cooking times can vary based on your oven and the size of the meat. Using a meat thermometer ensures that you reach the ideal doneness without overcooking—aim for 135°F for medium-rare.
• Rest the meat after cooking: Letting the beef rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice wonderfully tender and juicy.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to customize the seasoning with your favorite herbs or spices! This personal touch can really bring out your unique flavor preferences.
• Make extra sauce: If you love a rich sauce, consider doubling the Dijon cream sauce recipe. It’s perfect for drizzling over sides or even as a dip!

How to Serve Oven-Baked Beef Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce

When it comes to presenting this elegant dish, a little creativity goes a long way! Here are some ideas to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds vibrant color and freshness to your dish.
• Lemon zest: A light dusting of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors and give an aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, this classic side is perfect for soaking up that delicious Dijon cream sauce.
• Roasted Asparagus: The slight crunch of roasted asparagus complements the tender beef beautifully while adding a pop of color to your plate.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to this hearty main course.
• Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory honey-glazed carrots add a delightful contrast in flavor, making them an excellent pairing with beef.

Enjoy crafting this beautiful meal! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing everyone at the dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven-Baked Beef Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce is not only a showstopper for dinner but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef tenderloin to cool completely before storing.
• Place the leftover beef in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Store the Dijon cream sauce separately in another airtight container.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled beef tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• The Dijon cream sauce can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the beef tenderloin overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the beef on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Reheat the Dijon cream sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different cut of beef for Oven-Baked Beef Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce?

Yes! While beef tenderloin offers tenderness and flavor, you can substitute other cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I know when my Oven-Baked Beef Tenderloin is done?

For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, and let it rest after cooking for optimal juiciness.

Can I make the Dijon cream sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Dijon cream sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving.

What sides pair well with Oven-Baked Beef Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce?

Consider serving this dish with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

This Oven-Baked Beef Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce is truly special—it’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to wow your guests. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or ask any questions. Happy cooking!