Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Delight your guests with this Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin recipe—easy, flavorful, and perfect for holiday feasts! This savory centerpiece combines tender beef, rich stuffing, and festive flavors that come together in a surprisingly simple way. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a passionate home cook, this recipe guarantees a show-stopping dish ready in no time, making your Christmas celebration extra special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Time-saving magic: This recipe is designed to fit into busy holiday schedules without compromising on flavor or presentation.
- Impressive presentation: A stuffed beef tenderloin makes for a stunning centerpiece that will wow your family and guests.
- Versatile flavors: The stuffing ingredients can be tweaked easily to match your favorite tastes or dietary preferences.
- Perfectly tender beef: Using beef tenderloin ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture every time.
- Balanced richness: The stuffing adds moisture and complementary flavors that enhance the beef without being overpowering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is in its simple but essential ingredients. Each component adds something special: from the juiciness of the tenderloin to the aromatic herbs in the stuffing, every element plays a role in creating a harmonious holiday dish.
- Beef tenderloin (about 2 pounds): This lean, tender cut is perfect for stuffing and roasting.
- Sautéed mushrooms: Adds earthiness and moisture to the stuffing.
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley): Provide bright, festive flavors that elevate the dish.
- Garlic and shallots: Bring depth and a subtle sweetness to the stuffing.
- Breadcrumbs or panko: Help bind the stuffing while adding a delicate crunch.
- Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty flavor that enriches the stuffing mix.
- Olive oil or butter: For sautéing and keeping everything moist.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Variations for Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Feel free to personalize this Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin with variations that suit your tastes or dietary needs. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!
- Cheese swap: Use goat cheese or blue cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace beef with large portobello mushrooms stuffed with the same filling for a meatless option.
- Nutty crunch: Add toasted walnuts or pecans for texture and a toasty flavor.
- Spicy kick: Mix in some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to add a subtle heat.
- Seasonal fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped apples for a festive sweet touch.
How to Make Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Tenderloin
Start by trimming any excess fat from your beef tenderloin. Carefully butterfly the tenderloin by slicing it horizontally almost all the way through, then open it like a book. This creates a flat surface ready for stuffing.
Step 2: Make the Stuffing
Sauté finely chopped mushrooms, garlic, and shallots in olive oil until tender and fragrant. Stir in breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper, mixing until well combined and slightly cooled.
Step 3: Stuff and Roll
Spread the stuffing evenly over the flattened beef, leaving a small border around the edges. Gently roll the tenderloin back up, securing it tightly with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep the stuffing inside during cooking.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
Heat a skillet and sear the stuffed tenderloin on all sides in a bit of olive oil or butter to develop a rich, caramelized crust. This locks in juices and adds beautiful color.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Transfer the seared tenderloin to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Roast for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches your preferred doneness—125°F for medium-rare, keeping in mind it will continue to cook slightly after resting.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Allow the beef to rest for 10 minutes after roasting. This helps redistribute the juices, making each slice juicy and tender. Then, slice thickly and serve with your favorite sides.
Pro Tips for Making Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensures perfect doneness without guesswork.
- Chill before roasting: Let the stuffed beef rest in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up the stuffing and make rolling easier.
- Don’t skip searing: It locks in flavor and creates a beautiful golden crust.
- Season generously: Both the beef and the stuffing benefit from good seasoning for full flavor impact.
- Tie it tight: Use kitchen twine securely so the stuffing stays in place during cooking and slicing.
How to Serve Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Garnishes
Brighten up your plate with sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or even some pomegranate seeds for a vibrant, festive look.
Side Dishes
Pair this flavorful stuffed tenderloin with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow factor, slice the beef and arrange the pieces fanned out on a large platter, surrounded by colorful roasted vegetables and drizzled with a simple pan sauce or red wine reduction.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftovers tightly in aluminum foil or store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep the beef moist and flavorful.
Freezing
This stuffed beef tenderloin freezes well. Wrap it properly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a low oven (about 300°F) covered with foil to prevent drying, or warm slices briefly in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep everything juicy and tender.
FAQs
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can stuff and roll the beef the day before, keep it refrigerated, then sear and roast it fresh on the day of your meal for the best results.
What’s the best doneness temperature for beef tenderloin?
For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F when removing from the oven, as it will rise slightly while resting.
Can I substitute another cut of beef?
While tenderloin is the best for stuffing and tenderness, you can also use a beef top round roast if sliced thin and pounded flat, but expect a different texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by swapping regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or crushed nuts.
How long does the recipe take from start to finish?
Preparation and cooking combined typically take about 45 minutes to 1 hour, making it a great option for quick holiday dinners.
Final Thoughts
Nothing says festive and delicious quite like this Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin. Its effortless preparation paired with its luscious flavors makes it a go-to recipe for holiday celebrations. Give it a try and watch your guests fall in love bite after bite!
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Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Delight your guests with this Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin recipe—an easy, flavorful, and festive main dish that combines tender beef with a rich, herb-infused stuffing. Perfectly roasted to juicy perfection, it makes an impressive holiday centerpiece that is quick to prepare and adaptable to your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitutes)
Ingredients
Beef Tenderloin
- 2 pounds beef tenderloin, trimmed
Stuffing
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs or panko
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Searing
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Tenderloin: Trim any excess fat from the beef tenderloin. Carefully butterfly the tenderloin by slicing it horizontally almost all the way through, then open it like a book to create a flat surface ready for stuffing.
- Make the Stuffing: In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped mushrooms, garlic, and shallots until tender and fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well and allow to cool slightly.
- Stuff and Roll: Spread the stuffing evenly over the flattened beef tenderloin, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Gently roll the tenderloin back up and secure it tightly with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep the stuffing inside during cooking.
- Sear the Beef: Heat a skillet with olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed tenderloin on all sides until a rich caramelized crust forms, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and adds beautiful color.
- Roast to Perfection: Transfer the seared tenderloin to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare, keeping in mind the beef will continue to cook while resting.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to redistribute the juices. Slice thickly and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without guesswork.
- Chill the stuffed beef in the fridge for 20 minutes before roasting to firm up the stuffing and make rolling easier.
- Don’t skip searing; it locks in flavor and creates a beautiful golden crust.
- Season generously both the beef and stuffing for full flavor impact.
- Use kitchen twine securely to keep stuffing in place during cooking and slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Christmas, Beef Tenderloin, Stuffed Beef, Holiday Recipe, Quick Beef Roast, Festive Dinner
