How Many Minutes Per Pound to Cook Beef Tenderloin Roast – A Detailed Guide

Cooking beef tenderloin roast to perfection requires knowing how many minutes per pound to cook it. This luxurious cut of meat is known for being incredibly tender and flavorful. However it’s important not to overcook beef tenderloin as it can easily dry out.

In this detailed guide, we’ll provide everything you need to know to cook beef tenderloin roast perfectly every time.

An Overview of Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin, also known as filet mignon, is a cut of beef taken from the loin of the cow. It’s one of the most tender cuts of beef available due to its lack of fat and connective tissue. The center-cut tenderloin is the most desirable part, as it’s the thickest and most tender.

When preparing beef tenderloin roast, it’s crucial to avoid overcooking it This lean cut of meat can dry out quickly if cooked for too long. For a tender, juicy tenderloin roast, it should be cooked to an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium doneness

Preparing Your Beef Tenderloin Roast

Before calculating the cooking time, it’s important to properly prepare your beef tenderloin roast:

• Trim excess fat and silverskin: This helps the roast cook evenly.

• Season generously Use kosher salt, cracked black pepper, garlic and fresh herbs.

• Bring to room temperature: Take roast out of fridge 30 minutes before cooking.

• Sear the roast: Cook on high heat on all sides until browned, 2-3 minutes per side.

• Use a meat thermometer: Monitor temperature to avoid overcooking.

Calculating Cook Time Per Pound

Now let’s discuss the all-important cook time. When roasting beef tenderloin, you’ll want to cook it for 15-25 minutes per pound. Here are more specific guidelines:

• Rare: Cook for 15 minutes per pound until internal temp reaches 125°F

• Medium-rare: Cook for 20 minutes per pound until internal temp reaches 135°F

• Medium: Cook for 25 minutes per pound until internal temp reaches 145°F

For example, a 3-pound tenderloin roast should roast for 45-60 minutes for medium-rare doneness. Use a meat thermometer to test for doneness.

It’s better to slightly undercook beef tenderloin and let it rest to come up to temp rather than overcooking.

Cooking Methods

There are several methods for cooking beef tenderloin roast:

Oven Roasting: The most common method. Roast at 425°F in a preheated oven.

Grilling: Gets a nice char. Use indirect heat and rotate roast.

Sous Vide: Cooks the roast evenly in a water bath. Finish by searing.

Pan Searing: Quick cooking in a skillet. Finish in a hot oven.

No matter which cooking method you choose, follow the 15-25 minutes per pound guideline and use a meat thermometer.

Handy Beef Tenderloin Cooking Chart

For easy reference, here is a cooking time chart based on a roast’s weight and desired doneness:

Use these times as a guide, but always rely on a thermometer for accuracy.

Letting Your Roast Rest

After roasting or grilling beef tenderloin, it’s crucial to let it rest before slicing and serving. Letting it rest allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat.

Rest your roast for at least 10-15 minutes on a cutting board before carving. Tent it loosely with foil to keep warm. The internal temperature will rise 5-10°F during this time.

Serving Suggestions

Beef tenderloin roast makes for an elegant main course. Here are serving suggestions:

• Carve into 1/2-inch slices or fork-tender pieces.

• Serve with horseradish cream, béarnaise sauce, or au jus.

• Pair with roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, or creamed spinach.

• Offer a bold, full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Properly stored, leftover roasted beef tenderloin will keep for 3-4 days refrigerated. To reheat, place slices or pieces in an ovenproof dish, cover with foil, and warm at 325°F until heated through, about 15 minutes.

Sliced beef tenderloin also makes for delicious sandwiches the next day. Just reheat on the griddle or skillet until hot.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Tenderloin

Follow these tips for the best results when cooking beef tenderloin roast:

• Bring roast to room temp before cooking
• Sear all sides before roasting
• Cook for 15-25 minutes per pound
• Use a meat thermometer to monitor temp
• Roast until 5°F below target temp
• Let roast rest 10-15 minutes before slicing
• Slice across the grain into 1/2-inch pieces

Cooking beef tenderloin roast properly comes down to allowing 15-25 minutes per pound cooking time depending on desired doneness. Rely on a meat thermometer for accuracy. Resting the roast before serving and slicing against the grain are also essential. Follow this guide for a tender, juicy beef tenderloin roast that makes for an impressive entrée.