If you’re craving a juicy, tender steak bursting with bold flavors, you’ve just stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating. This dish is the ultimate combination of premium beef, fragrant herbs, pungent garlic, and spicy black pepper that come together to create a mouthwatering meal suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its simplicity belies the depth of flavor and elegant presentation it offers, making it a favorite for anyone who appreciates a perfectly grilled tenderloin steak packed with zest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Juicy Tenderloin: The beef tenderloin remains incredibly tender and juicy thanks to the grilling technique and quality cut.
- Bold Herb-Garlic Flavor: A vibrant mixture of fresh herbs and garlic creates a flavorful crust that enhances every bite.
- Simple Ingredients, Stunning Results: You only need a handful of essentials to make a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether dinner with family or an impressive weekend barbecue, this recipe shines in all settings.
- Easy to Customize: The herb-garlic-pepper coating can be tweaked to match your flavor preferences effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that each bring something special to the dish, from rich juiciness to vibrant aromatics and just the right amount of heat.
- Beef Tenderloin: Choose a high-quality, well-trimmed cut for that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Fresh Garlic: Adds a wonderful aroma and savory depth that complements the beef perfectly.
- Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Parsley): These herbs create a fragrant, flavorful crust that cooks beautifully on the grill.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Offers a spicy kick that balances the richness of the tenderloin.
- Olive Oil: Helps bind the herb and garlic mixture and keeps the meat moist during grilling.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural beef flavors and creating a savory crust.
Variations for Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating
Feel free to customize this recipe to fit your taste buds or dietary desires—its simple framework makes it super adaptable. Whether you want to add a smoky twist, a spicy edge, or herb swaps, you’ll find plenty of easy options to make it your own.
- Smoky Chipotle: Swap black pepper with chipotle powder for a smoky, slightly spicy flavor profile.
- Herb Mix Swap: Use oregano and basil instead of rosemary and thyme for a Mediterranean flair.
- Garlic Butter Finish: Top the grilled tenderloin with a garlic herb butter just before serving for extra richness.
- Gluten-Free Variation: Ensure all seasonings are gluten-free to maintain dietary restrictions effortlessly.
- Vegan-Inspired Crust: Use smoked paprika, garlic, and fresh herbs on thick portobello mushrooms as an alternative.
How to Make Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating
Step 1: Prepare the Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating
Start by finely mincing fresh garlic and herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Combine these with freshly ground black pepper, a pinch of salt, and enough olive oil to form a paste that will coat the tenderloin thoroughly. This mixture is the heart of the dish’s flavor profile.
Step 2: Season the Beef Tenderloin
Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Then, rub the herb-garlic-pepper mixture generously over all surfaces of the meat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor penetration.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 450°F (232°C). If using a charcoal grill, ensure hot coals are spread evenly for consistent cooking. Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Tenderloin
Place the tenderloin on the grill and sear each side for 3-4 minutes, forming a beautiful crust. Then move the meat to indirect heat and close the lid, cooking it for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the tenderloin from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial to redistribute the juices, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy. After resting, slice into thick medallions and serve.
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating
- Room Temperature Meat: Bringing the tenderloin to room temperature before grilling ensures even cooking throughout.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To get the perfect doneness without guesswork, rely on an instant-read thermometer.
- Don’t Skip Resting: Resting locks in juices and keeps your steak moist and flavorful.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh herbs and garlic instead of dried for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- Oil the Grates: Reduces sticking and creates beautiful grill marks on your tenderloin.
How to Serve Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or microgreens sprinkled over the finished beef tenderloin add a pop of color and fresh brightness that complements the herbaceous coating wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like roasted garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a fresh arugula salad work perfectly; each balances richness with texture and freshness to round out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the tenderloin into medallions and arrange them on a wooden serving board for a rustic look, or plate as individual portions atop a bed of sautéed mushrooms for an elegant presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover grilled beef tenderloin tightly in aluminum foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked tenderloin in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, making sure to cool completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a low oven (around 275°F or 135°C) or in a covered skillet on low heat to avoid overcooking; adding a little beef broth keeps the meat moist during the process.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While beef tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness, you can use sirloin or ribeye if preferred, but cooking times and texture will vary.
How long should I marinate the beef for best flavor?
Marinating for 30 minutes at room temperature is sufficient, but for more intense flavor, up to 2 hours in the refrigerator works great.
What is the best way to check for doneness?
Using an instant-read meat thermometer is the most reliable for ensuring medium-rare or your preferred level of doneness without guesswork.
Can I prepare the herb-garlic-pepper coating ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the coating up to a day ahead and store it refrigerated in an airtight container for convenience.
Is this recipe suitable for outdoor grilling only?
No, you can also cook the tenderloin indoors using a grill pan or in the oven with similar steps, though the exterior crust may differ slightly.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the rich, tender bite of Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating to elevate any meal into something truly special. Whether you’re lighting up the grill for a weekend feast or impressing guests with an unforgettable dinner, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures every time. Grab those fresh herbs and get ready to enjoy one of your new favorite steak recipes!
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Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating is a juicy, tender steak recipe bursting with bold flavors from fresh herbs, garlic, and black pepper. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this easy-to-make dish features a flavorful crust and a beautifully grilled inside that remains melt-in-your-mouth tender. Customize it to your taste with variations like smoky chipotle or Mediterranean herbs, and enjoy an elegant meal with simple ingredients and stunning results.
Ingredients
Beef Tenderloin
- 1 (2 to 3 lbs) high-quality, well-trimmed beef tenderloin
Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Herb-Garlic-Pepper Coating: Finely mince fresh garlic and herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Combine with freshly ground black pepper, salt, and olive oil to form a paste that will thoroughly coat the tenderloin. This mixture is the core flavor of the dish.
- Season the Beef Tenderloin: Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Rub the herb-garlic-pepper mixture generously over all surfaces of the meat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor penetration.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 450°F / 232°C). For charcoal grills, spread hot coals evenly for consistent cooking. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Tenderloin: Place the tenderloin on the grill and sear each side for 3-4 minutes to develop a flavorful crust. Move the meat to indirect heat, close the lid, and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the tenderloin from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. Resting redistributes juices, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy. After resting, slice into thick medallions and serve.
Notes
- Bring the tenderloin to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
- Use an instant-read meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Do not skip resting to lock in juices and maintain moisture.
- Use fresh herbs and garlic instead of dried for vibrant flavor.
- Oil grill grates to reduce sticking and achieve beautiful grill marks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 6 oz cooked tenderloin)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
