How to Cook Beef Tenderloin

The tenderloin is the cut from the animal's middle. It is the most tender (hence tenderloin) cut of meat on the cow. The tenderloin can be cut into several types of steaks, including the filet.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 4 steaks or one whole tenderloin
• Olive oil
• Salt, seasonings
• Skillet or pan
• Cooking thermometer (optional but recommended)

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

2. Season the tenderloins to your liking. Some prefer garlic, some like steak rubs and some like the simplicity of salt and pepper. There are many types of seasonings, so find one you like or make your own.

3. Oil the pan or skillet. If you choose to use a skillet, make sure it is oven-safe. Coat the pan/skillet and place the meat on the pan to prevent any sticking or burning.

4. If you chose to keep the tenderloin together, follow these approximate times: 2 pound roast (30 minutes), 4 pound roast (45 minutes), or make sure that the internal temperature is 130 degrees F, which is easy if you have a meat thermometer. If you separate the tenderloin into four steaks, cook on each side for about 5 or 6 minutes, and flip.

Tips & Warnings

• Season the tenderloin to your liking. Everybody has their own preferences.
• It's hard to be exact on cooking times, so the safest route to cooking a beef tenderloin is using a cooking thermometer to make sure you have the safe internal temperature of 130 degrees F.