Indulge in Decadence: Blue Cheese Crusted Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Are you looking to elevate your dinner game? Prepare to be amazed by the exquisite combination of tender beef tenderloin and the sharp, creamy tang of blue cheese. This Blue Cheese Crusted Beef Tenderloin recipe is a showstopper, perfect for special occasions, holidays, or simply when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly extraordinary. It’s surprisingly easy to make, delivering a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Get ready to impress with this flavorful and elegant dish!

## Why This Recipe Works

This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s carefully crafted for optimal flavor and texture:

* **Tenderloin Perfection:** Beef tenderloin is prized for its exceptional tenderness. Properly cooked, it melts in your mouth.
* **Blue Cheese Bliss:** The strong, pungent flavor of blue cheese creates a beautiful contrast with the richness of the beef.
* **Herb Infusion:** Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add aromatic complexity, complementing both the beef and the cheese.
* **Garlic Goodness:** Garlic provides a savory depth that ties all the flavors together.
* **Easy Crust:** The blue cheese crust is simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.
* **Pan-Seared and Oven-Finished:** This method ensures a perfectly seared exterior and evenly cooked interior.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these ingredients:

* **Beef Tenderloin:** 2-3 lbs, trimmed of silverskin
* **Blue Cheese:** 4 oz, crumbled (Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or your favorite blue cheese)
* **Fresh Rosemary:** 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
* **Fresh Thyme:** 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves, minced
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons, plus more for drizzling
* **Butter:** 2 tablespoons
* **Salt:** To taste
* **Black Pepper:** To taste
* **Worcestershire Sauce:** 1 tablespoon
* **Dry Red Wine (Optional):** 1/4 cup, for deglazing the pan

## Equipment

You’ll also need the following equipment:

* **Oven:** Preheated to 400°F (200°C)
* **Large Oven-Safe Skillet:** Cast iron is ideal
* **Cutting Board**
* **Chef’s Knife**
* **Mixing Bowl**
* **Meat Thermometer**

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create your blue cheese crusted beef tenderloin:

**1. Prepare the Beef Tenderloin:**

* Remove the beef tenderloin from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows it to come closer to room temperature, resulting in more even cooking.
* Pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps create a beautiful sear.
* Season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.

**2. Make the Blue Cheese Crust:**

* In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
* Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed and form a paste-like consistency.

**3. Sear the Beef Tenderloin:**

* Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
* Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the beef tenderloin in the hot skillet.
* Sear the tenderloin on all sides until a deep brown crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is crucial for developing rich flavor and a beautiful presentation.

**4. Apply the Blue Cheese Crust:**

* Remove the skillet from the heat.
* Spread the blue cheese mixture evenly over the top of the seared beef tenderloin, pressing it gently to adhere.

**5. Finish in the Oven:**

* Place the skillet with the beef tenderloin in the preheated oven.
* Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness.
* **Rare:** 125-130°F (52-54°C)
* **Medium-Rare:** 130-135°F (54-57°C)
* **Medium:** 135-140°F (57-60°C)
* **Medium-Well:** 140-145°F (60-63°C)
* **Well-Done:** 145°F+ (63°C+)
* Use a meat thermometer to accurately gauge the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin.

**6. Rest and Serve:**

* Remove the skillet from the oven and place the beef tenderloin on a cutting board.
* Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
* While the tenderloin rests, you can deglaze the pan (optional). Place the skillet back over medium heat. Add the Worcestershire sauce and red wine (if using). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook until the sauce has slightly reduced, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the butter until melted and emulsified.
* Slice the beef tenderloin against the grain into 1/2-inch thick medallions.
* Serve immediately, drizzled with the pan sauce (if made).

## Tips for Success

* **Don’t Overcook:** Beef tenderloin is best served rare to medium-rare. Overcooking will result in a dry and tough piece of meat. Use a meat thermometer and err on the side of caution.
* **High-Quality Ingredients:** Use the best quality beef tenderloin and blue cheese you can find. The flavor difference will be noticeable.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs are essential for the best flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but reduce the amount by half.
* **Hot Skillet:** Ensure the skillet is hot before searing the beef. This will create a beautiful crust and prevent the meat from sticking.
* **Resting Time:** Don’t skip the resting period! It’s crucial for juicy and tender results.
* **Adjust the Crust:** Feel free to adjust the amount of blue cheese and herbs to your liking.
* **Deglazing is Key:** Deglazing the pan adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Don’t skip this step if you want to elevate your sauce.
* **Silverskin Removal:** Ensure the silverskin (a tough membrane) is removed from the tenderloin before cooking. This can be done by carefully sliding a sharp knife under the silverskin and cutting it away.
* **Even Cooking:** To ensure even cooking, make sure the tenderloin is relatively uniform in thickness. You can gently tuck the thinner end under itself and tie it with kitchen twine if needed.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Cheese Variations:** If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, try using Gorgonzola dolce (a sweeter blue cheese), goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar cheese.
* **Herb Variations:** Experiment with different herbs like oregano, parsley, or chives.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the blue cheese crust for a little heat.
* **Mushroom Sauce:** Instead of a red wine sauce, try serving the tenderloin with a creamy mushroom sauce.
* **Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
* **Crust Additions:** Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the crust for added texture and flavor.
* **Different Cuts of Beef:** While tenderloin is the most tender option, you could also use a sirloin steak or ribeye, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

## Serving Suggestions

This Blue Cheese Crusted Beef Tenderloin pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:

* **Roasted Vegetables:** Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or potatoes
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes
* **Risotto:** Mushroom risotto or asparagus risotto
* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing
* **Yorkshire Puddings:** For a classic British touch
* **Creamed Spinach:** A rich and decadent side

## Make Ahead Instructions

* **Crust:** The blue cheese crust can be made a day ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
* **Beef Preparation:** The beef tenderloin can be trimmed and seasoned a day ahead of time. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator.

## Storage Instructions

* **Leftovers:** Store leftover beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave. Be careful not to overcook it.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients used)
* Protein: 40-50g
* Fat: 25-35g
* Carbohydrates: 5-10g

*Please note that these are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use frozen beef tenderloin?**
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

**Q: Can I make this recipe without an oven-safe skillet?**
A: Yes, you can sear the beef in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven.

**Q: How do I prevent the blue cheese crust from burning?**
A: Keep a close eye on the tenderloin while it’s in the oven. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with foil.

**Q: Can I grill the beef tenderloin instead of pan-searing and baking it?**
A: Yes, you can grill it. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the tenderloin for about 10-12 minutes, rotating occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Add the blue cheese crust during the last few minutes of grilling.

**Q: What wine pairs well with Blue Cheese Crusted Beef Tenderloin?**
A: A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Syrah pairs well with this dish.

**Q: Can I make this recipe for a large crowd?**
A: Yes, simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly. You may need to cook the tenderloin in batches.

## Conclusion

This Blue Cheese Crusted Beef Tenderloin recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its tender beef, creamy blue cheese crust, and aromatic herbs, it’s a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to indulge in a truly decadent dining experience. Enjoy!