Beef tenderloin is a show-stopping main course that’s sure to impress your dinner guests. This lean cut of meat is known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor, making it a popular choice for special occasions. However, cooking beef tenderloin can be intimidating, especially when it comes to determining the right cooking time. In this article, we’ll explore the factors that affect cooking time and provide a comprehensive guide on how long to cook beef tenderloin per pound.
Understanding Beef Tenderloin
Before we dive into cooking times, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of beef tenderloin. This cut of meat comes from the short loin section of the cow and is known for its tenderness and fine grain. Beef tenderloin is typically sold in two forms: whole and trimmed. Whole beef tenderloin includes the chain meat, which is a strip of meat that runs along the spine. Trimmed beef tenderloin, on the other hand, has the chain meat removed, resulting in a more uniform shape.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
Several factors can affect the cooking time of beef tenderloin, including:
- Size and weight: The larger the beef tenderloin, the longer it will take to cook.
- Thickness: Beef tenderloin that’s cut into thinner slices will cook faster than thicker slices.
- Temperature: The internal temperature of the meat will affect the cooking time. Beef tenderloin should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
- Cooking method: Different cooking methods, such as grilling, roasting, or pan-frying, will affect the cooking time.
- Level of doneness: The level of doneness will also impact the cooking time. Beef tenderloin can be cooked to various levels of doneness, including rare, medium-rare, medium, medium-well, and well-done.
Cooking Time per Pound
Now that we’ve explored the factors that affect cooking time, let’s dive into the cooking time per pound for beef tenderloin. The cooking time will vary depending on the cooking method and level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines for cooking beef tenderloin per pound:
- Rare: 12-15 minutes per pound
- Medium-rare: 15-18 minutes per pound
- Medium: 18-20 minutes per pound
- Medium-well: 20-22 minutes per pound
- Well-done: 22-25 minutes per pound
Cooking Methods and Times
Here are some specific cooking methods and times for beef tenderloin:
- Roasting: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the beef tenderloin for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
- Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the beef tenderloin for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
- Pan-frying: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Pan-fry the beef tenderloin for 3-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Internal Temperature Guide
Here’s a guide to internal temperatures for beef tenderloin:
| Level of Doneness | Internal Temperature |
| — | — |
| Rare | 120°F – 130°F (49°C – 54°C) |
| Medium-rare | 130°F – 135°F (54°C – 57°C) |
| Medium | 135°F – 140°F (57°C – 60°C) |
| Medium-well | 140°F – 145°F (60°C – 63°C) |
| Well-done | 145°F – 150°F (63°C – 66°C) |
Additional Tips for Cooking Beef Tenderloin
Here are some additional tips for cooking beef tenderloin:
- Bring the meat to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Season the meat liberally with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat reaches the desired internal temperature.
- Let the meat rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
By following these guidelines and tips, you’ll be able to cook the perfect beef tenderloin every time. Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat reaches the desired internal temperature, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods to find your favorite way to prepare beef tenderloin.
What is the ideal internal temperature for a cooked beef tenderloin?
The ideal internal temperature for a cooked beef tenderloin is between 135°F and 140°F for medium-rare, 145°F to 150°F for medium, and 155°F to 160°F for medium-well or well-done. It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the tenderloin reaches a safe internal temperature.
Using a thermometer will also help prevent overcooking, which can result in a dry and tough tenderloin. When checking the internal temperature, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding any fat or bone. Wait a few seconds until the temperature stabilizes before reading the result.
How do I determine the cooking time per pound for a beef tenderloin?
To determine the cooking time per pound for a beef tenderloin, you can use a general guideline of 15-20 minutes per pound for medium-rare, 20-25 minutes per pound for medium, and 25-30 minutes per pound for medium-well or well-done. However, this time may vary depending on the size and shape of the tenderloin, as well as the oven temperature.
It’s also important to consider the thickness of the tenderloin, as a thicker cut will take longer to cook than a thinner one. To ensure accurate cooking time, it’s best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You can also use the cooking time per pound as a guideline and adjust the cooking time based on the tenderloin’s internal temperature.
Can I cook a beef tenderloin at a high oven temperature to reduce cooking time?
While it may be tempting to cook a beef tenderloin at a high oven temperature to reduce cooking time, it’s not recommended. Cooking at high temperatures can result in a tenderloin that’s overcooked on the outside before it reaches the desired internal temperature.
Instead, it’s best to cook the tenderloin at a moderate oven temperature, such as 400°F to 425°F. This will help the tenderloin cook evenly and prevent overcooking. You can also use a technique called “searing,” where you cook the tenderloin at a high temperature for a short period to create a crust on the outside, then finish cooking it at a lower temperature.
How do I prevent a beef tenderloin from drying out during cooking?
To prevent a beef tenderloin from drying out during cooking, it’s essential to cook it to the right internal temperature and avoid overcooking. You can also use a few techniques to keep the tenderloin moist, such as brushing it with oil or melted butter during cooking.
Another technique is to use a marinade or rub that contains ingredients like olive oil, soy sauce, or herbs, which can help keep the tenderloin moist. You can also cover the tenderloin with foil during cooking to prevent it from drying out. However, be sure to remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to allow the tenderloin to brown.
Can I cook a beef tenderloin in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook a beef tenderloin in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. In fact, these appliances can be ideal for cooking a tenderloin, as they allow for low and slow cooking that can result in a tender and juicy final product.
To cook a beef tenderloin in a slow cooker, simply season the meat and place it in the cooker with some liquid, such as broth or wine. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. To cook a beef tenderloin in an Instant Pot, season the meat and place it in the pot with some liquid. Cook on high pressure for 10-15 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.
How do I slice a cooked beef tenderloin?
To slice a cooked beef tenderloin, it’s best to let it rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax, making it easier to slice.
To slice the tenderloin, use a sharp knife and slice against the grain, which means slicing in the direction of the lines of muscle. Slice the tenderloin into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. You can also slice the tenderloin into medallions or thicker slices, depending on your preference.
Can I cook a beef tenderloin ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can cook a beef tenderloin ahead of time and reheat it. In fact, this can be a convenient way to prepare a tenderloin for a special occasion or dinner party.
To reheat a cooked beef tenderloin, simply place it in the oven at a low temperature, such as 200°F to 250°F, and heat it for 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat the tenderloin in a slow cooker or on the stovetop in a pan with some liquid. However, be sure to reheat the tenderloin to an internal temperature of at least 145°F to ensure food safety.