Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin: An Unforgettable Holiday Feast
There’s something truly magical about preparing a special dish during the holiday season, and this Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is sure to be the star of your festive table. Imagine a tender, juicy beef tenderloin, beautifully stuffed with a vibrant mixture of sautéed spinach, creamy cheese, and aromatic garlic. It’s a rich, flavorful centerpiece that impresses guests without requiring hours in the kitchen. Perfect for Christmas dinner or any holiday gathering, it brings both elegance and comfort to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Why should you make this delicious stuffed beef tenderloin? For starters, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes in the oven after a little hands-on work. This makes it an excellent choice for those busy holiday nights when you want something impressive yet manageable. The vibrant filling of spinach and cream cheese pairs beautifully with the tender beef, creating a dish that’s flavor-packed and festive.
"Absolutely the best dish I made for Christmas! Everyone went back for seconds and thirds. It’s now a family tradition!" – Satisfied Holiday Chef
Beyond the taste, this dish has the added benefit of being customizable. You can easily swap in your favorite cheeses or herbs, making it versatile enough for any gathering. From intimate family dinners to larger holiday parties, this stuffed beef tenderloin fits the bill perfectly.
Preparing Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Ready to dive into creating this festive feast? Here’s a brief overview of the cooking process. The final dish is a result of simple steps that include preparing the filling, stuffing the beef, searing it for flavor, and then roasting to perfection. It sounds complicated, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll find it’s quite straightforward!
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to make your Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin:
- Beef tenderloin
- Fresh spinach
- Cream cheese (can substitute with ricotta for a lighter flavor)
- Garlic
- Grated Parmesan cheese (or any cheese you prefer)
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Butcher’s twine
Having all your ingredients prepped and ready will streamline the cooking process and make your kitchen time much more enjoyable!
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach with cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Carefully cut a pocket in the beef tenderloin, making sure to not cut all the way through. Fill the pocket with the spinach mixture.
- Use butcher’s twine to tie the tenderloin and secure the filling.
- In the same skillet, sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until it’s beautifully browned.
- Transfer the seared tenderloin to the oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature registers at 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Carefully cut away the twine and slice to serve.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving your stuffed beef tenderloin, presentation is everything. Slice the tenderloin into medallions and arrange on a platters for a beautiful display. Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to complement the rich flavors. A glass of red wine or a festive holiday cocktail will elevate your meal even further!
Storage and Reheating Tips
To maximize leftovers, allow the stuffed beef tenderloin to cool completely before wrapping in plastic wrap or sealing in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, or if you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to maintain tenderness.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Searing is Key: Don’t skip the searing step! It helps to lock in juices and creates a deliciously caramelized crust.
- Let it Rest: Allowing your tenderloin to rest before slicing is crucial. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Spices and Herbs: Feel free to play with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added complexity in flavor.
Creative Twists
Why not make this dish your own by trying some variations? You can add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy kick, swap out spinach for kale or Swiss chard, or even change the cheese to a bold blue cheese for a more robust taste. The possibilities are endless!
Common Questions
What is the recommended cooking time for medium-rare?
For medium-rare, roast the beef tenderloin until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). This usually takes about 25-30 minutes at 375°F.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the beef a few hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to sear and bake.
How do I know if my beef is cooked properly?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the tenderloin for an accurate reading.
This Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is a delightful dish that’s bound to bring joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations! Enjoy cooking and even more, enjoy sharing it with loved ones.
Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Ingredients
Stuffing
- 3 cups Fresh spinach Can swap with kale or Swiss chard
- 8 oz Cream cheese Can substitute with ricotta for a lighter flavor
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Or any cheese you prefer
- 3 cloves Garlic Finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs Beef tenderloin Make sure to choose a good quality cut
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing and searing
- Kitchen string Butcher's twine For tying the tenderloin
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach with cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Carefully cut a pocket in the beef tenderloin, making sure to not cut all the way through. Fill the pocket with the spinach mixture.
- Use butcher’s twine to tie the tenderloin and secure the filling.
Cooking
- In the same skillet, sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until it’s beautifully browned.
- Transfer the seared tenderloin to the oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature registers at 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Carefully cut away the twine and slice to serve.