Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Recipe
Gather around the holiday table and prepare to impress your family and friends with a show-stopping dish: Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin. This recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful explosion of flavors. Imagine the tender beef, perfectly stuffed with a rich mixture of spinach, mushrooms, and cream cheese. It’s a crafted dish that concludes any festive meal with a sprinkle of elegance and a dash of comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are plenty of reasons to cherish this recipe, especially during the holiday season. Not only is it a fantastic way to showcase your culinary skills, but it also brings together flavors that everyone loves. It’s quick enough for a midweek family dinner but special enough to steal the spotlight during Christmas festivities.
“So easy to prepare and truly luxurious! The combination of creamy cheese with sautéed spinach and mushrooms is divine. Perfect for a holiday dinner!” – A happy home cook
From its appealing presentation to the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, this dish delivers a satisfying experience. Make it for special occasions or simply share it on a cozy evening with loved ones—either way, it won’t disappoint.
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is a delightful process that blends rich flavors with simple techniques. The recipe requires just a few straightforward steps, allowing you to enjoy the company of your guests rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
First, you’ll prepare a luscious filling, followed by creating a pocket in the tenderloin for that indulgent stuffing. After a quick sear to lock in those delicious juices, it’s off to the oven for roasting. Let’s delve into the ingredients you’ll need.
Gather These Items
Here are the key ingredients for your Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin:
- 1 beef tenderloin (about 2 pounds)
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Feel free to substitute cheese or add herbs to the filling for your unique twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy directions to prepare the dish:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Toss in the diced mushrooms and chopped spinach, sautéing until they’ve softened.
- Stir in the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carefully cut a pocket into the beef tenderloin, making sure not to cut through the sides.
- Stuff the pocket with the delicious spinach mixture.
- In that same skillet, sear the tenderloin on all sides until beautifully browned.
- Transfer it to the oven and roast for 30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Allow the tenderloin to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving your Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin, presentation is key.
Slice the tenderloin into medallions, showcasing that beautiful stuffing. Arrange on a festive platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color. Pair it with sides like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A splash of red wine or a festive cocktail can perfectly complement the rich flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing leftover beef tenderloin is straightforward. Wrap the sliced or whole tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to 3 days.
If you wish to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm gently in a skillet or in the oven at a low temperature.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To elevate your cooking experience, here are some tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness—medium-rare is about 135°F (57°C).
- Let the meat rest after roasting; this ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
- Experiment with additional spices or herbs in your stuffing to personalize the flavor profile.
Creative Twists
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Consider these variations:
- Swap cream cheese for ricotta for a lighter filling.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
- Incorporate different spices, like thyme or rosemary, to enhance the earthiness of the mushrooms.
Common Questions
What’s the preparation time for this dish?
You’ll need about 15-20 minutes for prep and 30-35 minutes for cooking, making this a quick and rewarding holiday dish.
Can I substitute the beef tenderloin?
Certainly! You can use chicken breast, pork tenderloin, or even a large portobello mushroom for a vegetarian option.
How do I ensure the beef is cooked properly?
Using a meat thermometer will help; aim for your preferred doneness to ensure it’s perfectly cooked inside.
With this Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin, you’ll welcome the holiday spirit with a deliciously memorable meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Happy cooking!
Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef tenderloin About 2 pounds
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- to taste salt and pepper
- for cooking Olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Toss in the diced mushrooms and chopped spinach, sautéing until they’ve softened.
- Stir in the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carefully cut a pocket into the beef tenderloin, making sure not to cut through the sides.
- Stuff the pocket with the delicious spinach mixture.
Cooking
- In that same skillet, sear the tenderloin on all sides until beautifully browned.
- Transfer it to the oven and roast for 30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Allow the tenderloin to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.