Beef tenderloin steaks are a delicacy for many meat lovers, and grilling them to perfection can be a challenge even for experienced cooks. However, with the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can achieve a tender, juicy, and flavorful beef tenderloin steak that will impress your family and friends. In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to cook beef tenderloin steaks on the grill.
Understanding Beef Tenderloin Steaks
Before we dive into the grilling process, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of beef tenderloin steaks. Beef tenderloin is a long, narrow cut of beef that comes from the short loin section of the cow. It is known for its tenderness and lean flavor, making it a popular choice for special occasions.
Beef tenderloin steaks are typically cut into thin slices, about 1-1.5 inches thick, and can be cooked to various levels of doneness. The most common cooking methods for beef tenderloin steaks are grilling, pan-searing, and oven roasting.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
When selecting beef tenderloin steaks, look for cuts that are labeled as “tenderloin” or “filet mignon.” These cuts are typically more tender and lean than other cuts of beef. You can also ask your butcher to trim the steaks to your desired thickness.
It’s also essential to choose steaks with a good marbling score. Marbling refers to the amount of fat that is dispersed throughout the meat. A higher marbling score indicates a more tender and flavorful steak.
Preparing the Grill
Before you start grilling, make sure your grill is clean and preheated to the right temperature. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing your grill:
Cleaning the Grill
Use a wire brush to remove any debris or food residue from the grates. This will prevent any bacteria or old food from affecting the flavor of your steak.
Preheating the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C). You can use either a gas or charcoal grill, but make sure it’s preheated to the right temperature.
Oiling the Grates
Use a paper towel dipped in oil to brush the grates. This will prevent the steak from sticking to the grates and create a nice crust.
Seasoning the Steak
Seasoning the steak is an essential step in bringing out the flavor of the beef tenderloin. Here’s a simple seasoning recipe you can follow:
Basic Seasoning Recipe
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the steak, making sure to coat it evenly. You can also add other seasonings such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to give it a more herbaceous flavor.
Grilling the Steak
Now that your grill is preheated and your steak is seasoned, it’s time to start grilling. Here’s a step-by-step guide to grilling the perfect beef tenderloin steak:
Grilling the Steak
Place the steak on the grill and sear it for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak. You want to get a nice crust on the steak, so make sure not to move it too much.
After searing the steak, move it to a cooler part of the grill and continue cooking it to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak.
Internal Temperature Guide
- Rare: 120-130°F (49-54°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium-well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
- Well-done: 160-170°F (71-77°C)
Resting the Steak
Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness.
Why Resting is Important
Resting the steak is an essential step in achieving a tender and juicy steak. When you cut into the steak immediately after grilling, the juices will flow out, making the steak dry and tough. By letting it rest, you allow the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful.
Serving the Steak
Now that your steak is grilled to perfection, it’s time to serve it. Here are a few serving suggestions:
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the steak with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
- Serve the steak with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Serve the steak with a side of sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
You can also serve the steak with a variety of sauces, such as Béarnaise, peppercorn, or chimichurri.
Conclusion
Grilling beef tenderloin steaks can be a challenge, but with the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can achieve a tender, juicy, and flavorful steak that will impress your family and friends. Remember to choose the right cut of beef, prepare the grill, season the steak, grill it to perfection, and let it rest before serving. With these simple steps, you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time.
| Grilling Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|
| 2-3 minutes per side | 120-130°F (49-54°C) for rare |
| 4-5 minutes per side | 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare |
| 5-6 minutes per side | 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium |
By following these simple steps and using the right techniques, you’ll be able to grill beef tenderloin steaks like a pro and achieve a deliciously tender and flavorful steak that will impress your family and friends.
What is the ideal internal temperature for a beef tenderloin steak?
The ideal internal temperature for a beef tenderloin steak depends on the level of doneness desired. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be at least 130°F – 135°F (54°C – 57°C), while medium should be at 140°F – 145°F (60°C – 63°C). It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches a safe internal temperature.
It’s also important to note that the internal temperature will continue to rise slightly after the steak is removed from the grill. This is known as carryover cooking. To account for this, it’s best to remove the steak from the grill when it reaches an internal temperature that’s 5°F (3°C) lower than the desired level of doneness.
How do I season a beef tenderloin steak for grilling?
To season a beef tenderloin steak for grilling, start by sprinkling both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
For added flavor, you can also marinate the steak in a mixture of olive oil, acid like lemon juice or vinegar, and spices for several hours or overnight. However, be careful not to over-marinate, as this can make the steak tough and mushy. A general rule of thumb is to marinate the steak for no more than 2 hours.
What type of grill is best for cooking beef tenderloin steaks?
A gas or charcoal grill with a medium-high heat setting is ideal for cooking beef tenderloin steaks. If using a gas grill, preheat it to 400°F – 450°F (200°C – 230°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are spread out in a single layer and the grill is preheated to the same temperature range.
Regardless of the type of grill, make sure it’s clean and brush the grates with oil to prevent the steak from sticking. You can also use a grill mat or foil with holes poked in it to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
How long does it take to grill a beef tenderloin steak?
The grilling time for a beef tenderloin steak depends on the thickness of the steak and the level of doneness desired. As a general rule, a 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick steak will take about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, while a 1.5-inch (3.8 cm) thick steak will take about 6-8 minutes per side.
It’s essential to use a timer and flip the steak only once to prevent overcooking. You can also use the finger test to check the doneness of the steak. Press the steak gently with your finger; if it feels soft and squishy, it’s rare, while a firmer feel indicates medium or well-done.
Can I grill a beef tenderloin steak from frozen?
It’s not recommended to grill a beef tenderloin steak from frozen, as this can lead to uneven cooking and a lower quality steak. Frozen steaks can be difficult to cook evenly, and the outside may be overcooked before the inside reaches a safe internal temperature.
Instead, thaw the steak in the refrigerator or under cold running water before grilling. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and season as desired. This will help ensure a tender and flavorful steak.
How do I prevent a beef tenderloin steak from becoming tough?
To prevent a beef tenderloin steak from becoming tough, it’s essential to cook it to the right internal temperature and avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches a safe internal temperature, and remove it from the grill when it reaches the desired level of doneness.
It’s also important to handle the steak gently and avoid pressing down on it with your spatula while it’s grilling. This can squeeze out juices and make the steak tough. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness.
Can I grill a beef tenderloin steak in advance and reheat it?
While it’s possible to grill a beef tenderloin steak in advance and reheat it, this can affect the quality and tenderness of the steak. Grilled steaks are best served immediately, as reheating can cause the steak to dry out and become tough.
If you need to grill a steak in advance, it’s best to cook it to a lower internal temperature and then reheat it to the desired level of doneness. Use a low-temperature oven or a warm grill to reheat the steak, and slice it just before serving. However, for optimal flavor and tenderness, it’s best to grill the steak just before serving.