If you’re craving a delicious and tender steak, cooking beef tenderloin on the stove is a great option. The tenderloin is a tender and flavorful cut of meat that is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner at home. By following a few simple steps, you can easily cook beef tenderloin steaks on the stove and impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality meal.
Before you start cooking, it’s important to choose the right beef tenderloin steaks. Look for steaks that are about 1 to 1.5 inches thick, as thinner steaks can easily overcook. Additionally, make sure the steaks have a good marbling of fat, as this will add flavor and juiciness to the meat.
To ensure that your beef tenderloin steaks are cooked to perfection, it’s important to season them properly. Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the steaks, and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the steaks to absorb the flavors of the seasonings and will result in a more flavorful end product.
When it comes to cooking beef tenderloin steaks on the stove, the key is to sear them over high heat to develop a nice crust, and then finish cooking them in the oven to achieve the desired level of doneness. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over high heat, and add some oil or butter. Once the oil or butter is hot and sizzling, add the steaks to the skillet and sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until a golden brown crust forms.
Once the steaks are nicely seared, transfer them to a preheated oven and continue cooking them to your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks – 120°F (49°C) for rare, 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (66°C) for well-done. Keep in mind that the steaks will continue to cook slightly after they’re removed from the oven, so it’s best to take them out a few degrees before your desired temperature. Let the steaks rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Preparation and Seasoning
Before cooking beef tenderloin steaks on the stove, it is important to properly prepare and season the meat. The following steps will guide you through the process:
- Start by removing the steaks from the refrigerator and allowing them to come to room temperature. This step will ensure even cooking and prevent the steaks from becoming tough.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Dry steaks will sear better and develop a delicious crust.
- Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the steaks using a sharp knife. Removing the fat will prevent flare-ups and keep the meat tender.
- Season the steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
- If desired, you can also add additional herbs and spices to the steaks. Popular choices include garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, or a steak seasoning blend.
- Gently press the seasoning into the steaks to ensure it adheres well. Let the steaks rest for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Proper preparation and seasoning are essential for achieving flavorful and tender beef tenderloin steaks. Taking the time to prepare the meat correctly will result in a delicious and satisfying dish.
Selecting the Right Cut
When it comes to cooking beef tenderloin steaks on the stove, selecting the right cut of meat is crucial. The tenderloin is a long, cylindrical muscle that runs along the spine of the cow. It is one of the most tender cuts of beef and is known for its buttery texture and subtle flavor.
When choosing a beef tenderloin steak, look for steaks that are evenly sized and have a thickness of about 1 to 1.5 inches. This will ensure that they cook evenly and result in a juicy and tender steak. Additionally, you should look for steaks that have a good amount of marbling, which refers to the thin streaks of fat running through the meat. This marbling adds flavor and moisture to the steak, making it more delicious.
There are different grades of beef, including prime, choice, and select. Prime is the highest grade and is known for its superior marbling and tenderness. Choice is a slightly lower grade but still offers good quality and flavor. Select is a lower grade with less marbling, resulting in a leaner and slightly less tender steak. When it comes to cooking beef tenderloin steaks on the stove, it is recommended to choose prime or choice cuts for the best results.
Considerations for Cooking Methods
It is also important to consider the cooking method when selecting the right cut of beef tenderloin steak. The tenderness of the meat makes it suitable for quick cooking methods such as pan-searing or grilling. However, if you prefer a more tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture, you can also choose thicker cuts and opt for slower cooking methods like roasting or sous vide.
Regardless of the cooking method, selecting the right cut of beef tenderloin steak is the first step towards a delicious and satisfying meal. Take your time to choose the best quality steak that suits your preferences and desired cooking method.
Trimming and Tying the Steaks
Before cooking your beef tenderloin steaks, it’s important to trim and tie them properly. Trimming the steaks ensures that they cook evenly and look presentable, while tying them helps them maintain their shape during cooking.
To trim the steaks, start by removing any excess fat or silver skin from the surface of the meat. Use a sharp knife and work carefully to avoid removing too much meat.
After trimming, the next step is to tie the steaks. This can be done using kitchen twine or butcher’s string. Cut a piece of twine that is long enough to go around each steak and tie it securely, making sure to leave some slack so that the twine doesn’t cut into the meat.
Place the twine under the steak, then bring both ends up and cross them over the top of the steak. Flip the steak over and cross the twine again, this time making an “X” shape. Flip the steak back over and tie the twine tightly, securing the crossed ends in place.
By trimming and tying your beef tenderloin steaks, you’ll ensure that they cook evenly and maintain their shape, leading to a delicious and visually appealing end result.
Seasoning the Steaks
Before cooking your beef tenderloin steaks, it’s important to season them properly. This will enhance the flavor and ensure a delicious result. Here are some tips on how to season your steaks:
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure you have the following seasonings on hand:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Olive oil
2. Pat Dry the Steaks
Before applying the seasonings, pat dry the beef tenderloin steaks with a paper towel. This will help the seasonings stick to the meat better and prevent any unwanted moisture during the cooking process.
3. Season with Salt
Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on both sides of the steaks. Salt helps to enhance the natural flavors of the meat and tenderize it.
4. Add Black Pepper
Next, grind some black pepper over the steaks to add a subtle heat and aromatics to the dish.
5. Sprinkle Garlic Powder
Garlic powder adds a delicious savory flavor to the steaks. Evenly sprinkle some garlic powder over the surface of the steaks.
6. Dust with Paprika
For a touch of color and gentle smoky flavor, dust the beef tenderloin steaks with paprika. This will give a beautiful appearance to the cooked steaks.
7. Drizzle with Olive Oil
Finally, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the seasoned steaks. This will help the seasonings adhere to the meat and add moisture during the cooking process.
After seasoning the steaks, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Cooking Techniques
When cooking beef tenderloin steaks on the stove, there are a few cooking techniques that can help you achieve the perfect results.
1. Preparing the Steaks:
Before cooking, it’s important to remove the steaks from the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature. This will ensure that they cook evenly.
Use a paper towel to pat the steaks dry, as this will help with the searing process and prevent them from becoming too watery.
2. Searing:
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil, such as olive or vegetable oil, to the pan and allow it to get hot.
Season the steaks with salt and pepper, and then carefully place them in the hot skillet. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until a brown crust forms.
3. Cooking to the Desired Doneness:
The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steaks and the desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
For medium-rare steaks, cook until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C). For medium, cook until it reaches 145°F (63°C).
4. Letting the Steaks Rest:
Once the steaks are cooked to your desired doneness, remove them from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Note: The resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.
5. Serving:
Slice the steaks against the grain and serve them hot. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite side dishes.
Now that you’re familiar with these cooking techniques, you can confidently cook beef tenderloin steaks on the stove and impress your friends and family with a delicious meal!
Q&A
What is beef tenderloin?
Beef tenderloin is a cut of beef that comes from the loin area of the cow. It is known for being one of the most tender cuts of beef, with less marbling and a delicate texture.
How should I season my beef tenderloin steaks?
Seasoning beef tenderloin steaks can be as simple as using salt and pepper, or you can experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor. Some popular options include garlic, rosemary, thyme, and paprika.
What is the best way to cook beef tenderloin steaks on the stove?
The best way to cook beef tenderloin steaks on the stove is to start by searing them in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side to develop a flavorful crust. Then, transfer the steaks to a preheated oven to finish cooking to the desired doneness.
How long should I cook beef tenderloin steaks on the stove?
Cooking time for beef tenderloin steaks on the stove can vary depending on the thickness of the steaks and the desired level of doneness. A general guideline is to cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until an internal meat thermometer reads 135°F (57°C).
Should I let my beef tenderloin steaks rest after cooking?
Yes, it is recommended to let beef tenderloin steaks rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Tent the steaks loosely with foil while resting to keep them warm.
What is the best way to cook beef tenderloin steaks on the stove?
The best way to cook beef tenderloin steaks on the stove is to start by seasoning the steaks with salt and pepper. Then, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add some oil. Place the steaks in the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. After that, you can finish cooking them in the oven if desired.