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November 5, 2024
Making a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin steak at home is easier than you think. With the right technique and a trusty cast iron skillet, you can achieve a restaurant-quality steak without leaving the comfort of your own kitchen.
Beef tenderloin steaks, also known as filet mignon, are prized for their tenderness and mild flavor. Cooking them in a cast iron skillet allows for even heat distribution and a nice sear on the outside, while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Before you start cooking, it’s important to choose the right cut of beef tenderloin and season it properly. Look for steaks that are about 1.5 inches thick, as thinner steaks may overcook. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper, or add your favorite spices and herbs for extra flavor.
Now, let’s move on to the cooking process. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Add a tablespoon of oil or butter to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Carefully place the steaks in the heated skillet, making sure they’re not overcrowded.
For a medium-rare steak, cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for accuracy. Once the steaks are cooked to your desired doneness, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Experiment with different seasonings and cooking times to find your preferred level of doneness. With a bit of patience and the right technique, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious and tender beef tenderloin steaks right at home.
Tip: Remember to let your steaks rest before cutting into them. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Preparing the Beef Tenderloin Steaks
Before cooking the beef tenderloin steaks, it’s important to properly prepare them to ensure a delicious and tender result. Follow these steps to get your steaks ready:
1. Thawing the Steaks
If your beef tenderloin steaks are frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process will help maintain the meat’s quality and prevent bacterial growth.
Alternatively, you can use the defrost function on your microwave if you’re short on time. Be sure to follow your microwave’s instructions for defrosting meat.
2. Trimming the Steaks
Trim any excess fat from the beef tenderloin steaks. Leave a thin layer of fat to enhance flavor and juiciness, but remove any large chunks or tough connective tissue.
Use a sharp knife to carefully trim the steaks, taking care not to remove too much meat in the process.
3. Seasoning the Steaks
Season the beef tenderloin steaks with salt and pepper, or any other desired seasonings. This step can be done right before cooking or up to 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
For an extra punch of flavor, you can also marinate the steaks in your favorite marinade for a few hours before cooking. Just be sure to pat the steaks dry before proceeding.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your beef tenderloin steaks are ready to be cooked in a cast iron skillet. Follow the remaining instructions in the article to achieve perfectly cooked and flavorful steaks.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
When it comes to cooking beef tenderloin steaks in a cast iron skillet, choosing the right cut of beef is crucial. The tenderness and flavor of the steak largely depend on the specific cut you choose. Here are some popular cuts of beef for cooking tenderloin steaks:
| Cut | Description |
|---|---|
| Filet Mignon | Considered the most tender cut, filet mignon comes from the smaller end of the tenderloin. It is known for its buttery texture and mild flavor. |
| Chateaubriand | Chateaubriand is a large, thick-cut steak taken from the center of the tenderloin. It is ideal for special occasions and offers a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience. |
| Tournedos | Tournedos are small, round steaks cut from the thicker end of the tenderloin. They are often wrapped in bacon to enhance their flavor and tenderness. |
| Beef Medallions | Beef medallions are thick, cylindrical steaks cut from the center of the tenderloin. They are versatile and can be used for various cooking methods. |
When choosing a cut of beef, consider your personal preferences in terms of tenderness, flavor, and portion size. Additionally, take into account the occasion and any specific recipes or cooking techniques you plan to use. Ultimately, choosing a high-quality, well-marbled cut of beef will ensure a delicious and satisfying meal.
Seasoning the Steaks
Before you cook your beef tenderloin steaks, it’s important to season them properly to enhance the flavor. Here are a few ways to season your steaks:
- Salt and pepper: Sprinkle a generous amount of salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of the steaks. This classic seasoning combination will bring out the natural flavors of the meat.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder and onion powder on the steaks. This will add a savory and aromatic element to your dish.
- Herbs and spices: If you want to get creative, try using a combination of herbs and spices to season your steaks. Some popular choices include rosemary, thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite blend.
After seasoning the steaks, gently press the seasonings into the meat to ensure they adhere well. Let the steaks sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Remember, seasoning is a crucial step in cooking beef tenderloin steaks. It’s what takes your dish from ordinary to extraordinary!
Preheating the Cast Iron Skillet
Before cooking your beef tenderloin steaks, it is important to properly preheat your cast iron skillet. Preheating allows the skillet to get hot evenly, ensuring that your steaks cook evenly as well.
To preheat your cast iron skillet, follow these steps:
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1. Place your cast iron skillet on the stove over medium heat. |
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2. Let the skillet heat up for about 5 minutes or until it becomes hot to the touch. |
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3. Make sure to keep your kitchen well-ventilated, as preheating a cast iron skillet can produce smoke. |
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4. Once the skillet is hot, you can proceed with cooking your beef tenderloin steaks.  Amazon Grocery, Beef Tenderloin Steak, Boneless, USDA Choice
Amazon.com
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Properly preheating the cast iron skillet ensures that your beef tenderloin steaks develop a delicious crust on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. It allows for even heat distribution, resulting in a perfect sear and a mouth-watering meal.
Cooking the Steaks in the Skillet
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cast iron skillets are excellent for cooking beef tenderloin steaks because they retain and distribute heat evenly.
2. Rub each steak with your preferred seasonings. You can use a simple combination of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, or get creative with your favorite steak seasonings.
3. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the skillet and let it heat up. This will help prevent the steaks from sticking to the skillet.
4. Carefully place the seasoned steaks into the skillet. You should hear a sizzling sound when they hit the hot surface.
Beef Loin Tenderloin Steak Step 1
Amazon.com
5. Cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. If you prefer your steaks cooked to medium or medium-well, you may need to cook them a little longer on each side.
6. Avoid flipping the steaks too frequently. Let them develop a nice crust on each side before flipping. This will help seal in the juices and ensure a flavorful and tender result.
7. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks. For medium-rare, the thermometer should read 135°F (57°C). Keep in mind that the steaks will continue to cook a little more even after they are removed from the skillet.
8. Once the steaks reach the desired doneness, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
9. Serve the beef tenderloin steaks hot and enjoy their rich and savory flavor!
Organic Rancher Organic Beef Tenderloin Steak, 12 OZ
Amazon.com
Resting and Serving the Steaks
Once the beef tenderloin steaks are cooked to your desired doneness, it’s important to let them rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak. Here’s how to properly rest and serve your steaks:
1. Resting the Steaks
Remove the cooked beef tenderloin steaks from the cast iron skillet and transfer them to a cutting board or a warm plate. Tent the steaks loosely with aluminum foil to keep them warm.
Let the steaks rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time will allow the internal temperature of the steaks to even out and the meat to relax, resulting in a juicier and more tender texture.
2. Carving and Serving the Steaks
After the resting period, it’s time to carve and serve the beef tenderloin steaks:
- Use a sharp knife to carve the steaks against the grain into thick slices. Cutting against the grain ensures that the meat remains tender and easy to chew.
- Transfer the sliced steaks onto individual serving plates or a platter. Arrange the slices neatly for an appetizing presentation.
- You can serve the beef tenderloin steaks as they are or with a sauce of your choice. Consider pairing them with a traditional steak sauce, such as peppercorn sauce or red wine reduction, for added flavor.
- Garnish the steaks with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to enhance their visual appeal.
Finally, enjoy your perfectly cooked beef tenderloin steaks! Serve them alongside your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, to complete the meal.
Q&A
What is the best way to cook beef tenderloin steaks?
The best way to cook beef tenderloin steaks is using a cast iron skillet. This method allows you to sear the steaks to perfection and lock in all the juices and flavors. It’s important to preheat your skillet before cooking and to let the steaks rest after cooking to ensure they are tender and juicy.
How do I season beef tenderloin steaks?
For beef tenderloin steaks, a simple seasoning of salt and pepper is often all you need. However, you can also use your favorite steak seasoning or marinade for added flavor. Just be sure to season the steaks on both sides before cooking.
What temperature should I cook beef tenderloin steaks to?
The recommended internal temperature for beef tenderloin steaks is 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare. You can use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the steaks. Remember to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak for an accurate reading.
How long should I cook beef tenderloin steaks?
The cooking time for beef tenderloin steaks will depend on the thickness of the steaks and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, for a 1-inch thick steak, you can cook it for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for thicker or thinner steaks.
Can I cook beef tenderloin steaks in a regular skillet?
While you can cook beef tenderloin steaks in a regular skillet, using a cast iron skillet is highly recommended. Cast iron provides even heat distribution and retains heat well, allowing you to sear the steaks perfectly. However, if you don’t have a cast iron skillet, you can still achieve good results with a regular skillet.
What is the best way to cook beef tenderloin steaks?
The best way to cook beef tenderloin steaks is by using a cast iron skillet. This method ensures that the steaks are cooked evenly and develop a delicious crust.