Beef tenderloin is a show-stopping main course that’s sure to impress your guests. When cooked to perfection, it’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. However, cooking beef tenderloin can be intimidating, especially when using a charcoal grill. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to cook beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill, including how long to cook it, the ideal temperature, and some expert tips to ensure a perfect dish every time.
Understanding Beef Tenderloin
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of beef tenderloin. Beef tenderloin is a long, narrow cut of beef that’s taken from the short loin section. It’s known for its tenderness and lean flavor, making it a popular choice for special occasions.
Beef tenderloin can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, roasting, and pan-frying. However, grilling is one of the most popular methods, as it adds a smoky flavor and a nice char to the meat.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef Tenderloin
When selecting a beef tenderloin, look for a cut that’s at least 1-1.5 pounds and has a uniform thickness. This will ensure that the meat cooks evenly and is easier to slice.
You can choose from two types of beef tenderloin: trimmed or untrimmed. Trimmed beef tenderloin has the fat and silver skin removed, making it leaner and more tender. Untrimmed beef tenderloin, on the other hand, has the fat and silver skin intact, which can add more flavor to the meat.
Preparing the Beef Tenderloin for Grilling
Before grilling the beef tenderloin, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here are some steps to follow:
Seasoning the Beef Tenderloin
Seasoning the beef tenderloin is crucial to add flavor to the meat. You can use a variety of seasonings, including salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the seasonings all over the meat, making sure to coat it evenly.
Bringing the Beef Tenderloin to Room Temperature
Remove the beef tenderloin from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before grilling. This will help the meat cook more evenly and prevent it from cooking too quickly on the outside.
Tying the Beef Tenderloin (Optional)
If you have a beef tenderloin that’s not uniform in thickness, you may want to consider tying it with kitchen twine. This will help the meat cook more evenly and prevent it from burning in some areas.
Cooking the Beef Tenderloin on a Charcoal Grill
Now that we’ve prepared the beef tenderloin, it’s time to cook it on the charcoal grill. Here are some steps to follow:
Preheating the Charcoal Grill
Preheat the charcoal grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F to 450°F). Make sure the grates are clean and brush them with oil to prevent the meat from sticking.
Grilling the Beef Tenderloin
Place the beef tenderloin on the grill and sear it for about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the meat. You want to get a nice crust on the meat, but be careful not to burn it.
After searing the meat, move it to a cooler part of the grill (about 300°F to 350°F) and continue cooking it to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat.
Internal Temperature Guide for Beef Tenderloin
| Level of Doneness | Internal Temperature |
| — | — |
| Rare | 130°F – 135°F |
| Medium-rare | 135°F – 140°F |
| Medium | 140°F – 145°F |
| Medium-well | 145°F – 150°F |
| Well-done | 150°F – 155°F |
How Long to Cook Beef Tenderloin on a Charcoal Grill
The cooking time for beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill will depend on the thickness of the meat and the level of doneness you prefer. Here are some general guidelines:
- For a 1-1.5 pound beef tenderloin, cook for about 15-20 minutes for medium-rare, 20-25 minutes for medium, and 25-30 minutes for medium-well.
- For a 1.5-2 pound beef tenderloin, cook for about 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, 25-30 minutes for medium, and 30-35 minutes for medium-well.
Remember to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Expert Tips for Cooking Beef Tenderloin on a Charcoal Grill
Here are some expert tips to help you cook the perfect beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill:
- Use a cast-iron or stainless steel grill grate, as they retain heat well and can sear the meat nicely.
- Don’t press down on the meat with your spatula, as this can squeeze out the juices and make the meat tough.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat, as this is the most accurate way to determine doneness.
- Let the meat rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing, as this allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to retain its tenderness.
Conclusion
Cooking beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill can be a daunting task, but with the right techniques and guidelines, you can achieve a perfectly cooked dish every time. Remember to choose the right cut of beef tenderloin, prepare it properly, and cook it to the right temperature. With practice and patience, you’ll be able to cook a beef tenderloin that’s sure to impress your guests.
What is the ideal temperature for grilling a beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill?
The ideal temperature for grilling a beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill is between 400°F to 450°F (200°C to 230°C). This temperature range allows for a nice sear on the outside while cooking the inside to the desired level of doneness. It’s essential to preheat the grill to the correct temperature before placing the tenderloin on the grates.
To ensure the grill has reached the ideal temperature, use a thermometer to check the heat. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can perform the “hand test” by holding your hand about 5 inches above the grates. If you can hold it for 2-3 seconds, the grill is at the correct temperature. Keep in mind that the temperature may fluctuate during the grilling process, so it’s crucial to monitor it closely.
How do I prepare a beef tenderloin for grilling on a charcoal grill?
To prepare a beef tenderloin for grilling on a charcoal grill, start by trimming any excess fat and silver skin from the meat. This will help the tenderloin cook more evenly and prevent flare-ups. Next, season the tenderloin with your desired herbs and spices, making sure to coat it evenly. You can also rub the tenderloin with oil to enhance the flavor and texture.
After seasoning, let the tenderloin sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before grilling. This allows the meat to relax, making it more receptive to the heat. During this time, you can also prepare the grill by preheating it to the ideal temperature and cleaning the grates with a brush to prevent sticking.
What is the best way to grill a beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill?
The best way to grill a beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill is to use a combination of direct and indirect heat. Start by placing the tenderloin over direct heat to sear the outside, then move it to indirect heat to finish cooking the inside. This technique ensures a nice crust on the outside while cooking the inside to the desired level of doneness.
To achieve this, place the tenderloin over the hottest part of the grill (direct heat) for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice sear forms. Then, move the tenderloin to the cooler part of the grill (indirect heat) to finish cooking it to the desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How long does it take to grill a beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill?
The grilling time for a beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill depends on the size and thickness of the meat, as well as the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, a 1-2 pound (0.5-1 kg) tenderloin will take about 15-25 minutes to cook to medium-rare, while a 2-3 pound (1-1.5 kg) tenderloin will take about 25-40 minutes.
It’s essential to use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the tenderloin, especially when cooking to a specific level of doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C), while medium should be around 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C).
How do I prevent a beef tenderloin from becoming tough when grilling on a charcoal grill?
To prevent a beef tenderloin from becoming tough when grilling on a charcoal grill, it’s essential to cook it to the correct internal temperature and avoid overcooking. Overcooking can cause the meat to become dry and tough, so it’s crucial to monitor the temperature closely.
Another way to prevent toughness is to let the tenderloin rest for 10-15 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful. During this time, you can also tent the tenderloin with foil to keep it warm and prevent it from drying out.
Can I grill a beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill without a rotisserie?
Yes, you can grill a beef tenderloin on a charcoal grill without a rotisserie. While a rotisserie can help to cook the tenderloin evenly, it’s not necessary. You can achieve even cooking by rotating the tenderloin every 2-3 minutes while it’s grilling.
To ensure even cooking, make sure to preheat the grill to the correct temperature and clean the grates with a brush to prevent sticking. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the tenderloin, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
How do I slice a grilled beef tenderloin?
To slice a grilled beef tenderloin, start by letting it rest for 10-15 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful. Next, slice the tenderloin against the grain, using a sharp knife to make clean cuts.
To slice against the grain, identify the direction of the muscle fibers and slice in the opposite direction. This will help to create tender and flavorful slices. You can also slice the tenderloin to the desired thickness, depending on your preference.