Tenderloin steak is a popular and succulent cut of beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor. Grilling tenderloin steak is a great way to enhance its natural flavors and achieve that perfectly juicy and tender texture. Whether you’re a seasoned grillmaster or a beginner, cooking tenderloin steak on the grill can be a rewarding experience.
Before you start grilling, it’s important to prepare the steak properly. Begin by selecting a high-quality tenderloin steak from your local butcher or grocery store. Look for a well-marbled steak with a deep red color for the best results. You can also opt for grass-fed beef, which tends to have a more intense flavor.
Next, you’ll want to season the tenderloin steak to enhance its natural flavors. A simple blend of salt and pepper can go a long way in bringing out the taste of the meat. For those who prefer a bolder flavor profile, you can also add some garlic powder, onion powder, or a dry rub.
Properly preheating the grill is crucial for cooking tenderloin steak. Preheat your grill to high heat, around 450-500°F (232-260°C). This high temperature will help sear the steak and lock in its juices, creating that mouthwatering crust.
Once the grill is preheated, it’s time to cook the tenderloin steak. Place the steak on the hot grill grates and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
After the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the meat to reabsorb its juices and ensures a more tender and flavorful bite. Serve your grilled tenderloin steak with your favorite sides and enjoy!
In conclusion, grilling tenderloin steak is a delicious way to enjoy this premium cut of beef. By properly preparing the steak, seasoning it to taste, and cooking it over high heat, you can achieve a perfectly tender and juicy steak that will impress your family and friends.
Preparing the Tenderloin Steak
Before grilling a tenderloin steak, it’s important to properly prepare the meat to ensure a delicious and tender result. Here’s how to do it:
1. Choose a high-quality tenderloin steak
Look for a tenderloin steak that is well-marbled with fat, as this will help keep the steak juicy and flavorful during grilling. Select a steak that is thick and evenly cut for even cooking.
2. Season the steak
Generously season the tenderloin steak with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite steak seasoning blend for extra flavor.
3. Let the steak rest
Allow the seasoned steak to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This will help the steak cook more evenly and retain its juices.
4. Preheat the grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the tenderloin steak cooks to perfection, with a nicely seared exterior and a juicy interior.
5. Oil the grill grates
Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the tenderloin steak from sticking. You can use cooking spray or brush the grates with some vegetable oil using a grill brush or a wad of folded paper towel.
6. Place the steak on the grill
Once the grill is preheated, carefully place the seasoned tenderloin steak on the grill grates. Close the grill lid and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
7. Monitor the internal temperature
For a perfect tenderloin steak, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for an internal temperature of about 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, or adjust accordingly based on whether you prefer your steak more rare or more well-done.
8. Let the steak rest before serving
Once the tenderloin steak reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy steak.
Now that the tenderloin steak is properly prepared, it’s ready to be served and enjoyed!
Choosing the Tenderloin
When it comes to grilling a tenderloin steak, choosing the right cut of meat is key. The tenderloin comes from the loin section of the cow and is one of the most tender cuts available. Here are a few things to consider when selecting your tenderloin:
Grade
There are different grades of beef available, including Prime, Choice, and Select. Prime grade beef is the highest quality and will have the most marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness to the meat. Choice grade beef is a good option if you want a balance between flavor and price, while Select grade beef is leaner but may be less tender.
Size
Tenderloin steaks come in various sizes, so consider how much meat you need and how many people you will be serving. A whole tenderloin can weigh between 4 to 6 pounds and can be cut into individual steaks or left intact for a larger roast.
Appearance
When choosing a tenderloin, look for meat that is bright red in color and has a small amount of white fat marbled throughout. Avoid steaks that are discolored or have a strong odor, as this may indicate spoilage.
Grade | Marbling | Flavor | Tenderness |
---|---|---|---|
Prime | High | Rich | Very tender |
Choice | Moderate | Good | Tender |
Select | Low | Lean | Less tender |
Trimming the Fat
Before grilling, it is important to trim any excess fat from the tenderloin steak. This will prevent flare-ups and ensure that the steak cooks evenly. Follow these steps to trim the fat:
Step 1: Choose a sharp knife
Use a sharp knife to make precise cuts and remove the fat effectively. Dull knives can make this task more difficult and increase the risk of injury.
Step 2: Remove visible fat
Inspect the tenderloin steak and look for any visible fat. Use the knife to carefully cut away the fat, keeping as much meat intact as possible. It’s important to remove the fat but not over-trim the steak.
Note: Some fat can add flavor and juiciness to the steak, so be mindful not to remove all the fat.
Step 3: Trim excess fat
If there are any thick patches or excessive amounts of fat, trim them off with the knife. This will help prevent flare-ups and reduce the amount of fat drippings during grilling.
Remember: Trimming the fat is an important step for a healthier and more enjoyable steak eating experience.
Marinating the Steak
Marinating the steak is a crucial step in ensuring it turns out tender and flavorful. This process involves soaking the steak in a mixture of ingredients that help to enhance its taste and texture.
Here is a simple marinade recipe you can use:
Ingredients | Measurements |
---|---|
Soy sauce | 1/4 cup |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Minced garlic | 3 cloves |
Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon |
Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon |
Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
To marinate the steak:
- Place the steak in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
- Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is evenly coated.
- Cover the dish or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavor the steak will absorb.
Remember to flip the steak occasionally so that both sides have a chance to soak in the marinade. Once the steak has marinated to your desired taste, it is ready to be grilled.
Creating the Marinade
The marinade is a key component in cooking a tenderloin steak on the grill. It helps to add flavor and tenderize the meat, making it juicy and delicious.
Ingredients:
To create a delicious marinade, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect marinade for your tenderloin steak:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and black pepper.
- Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
- Place the tenderloin steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the steak.
- Seal the bag tightly, ensuring that the marinade completely covers the steak.
- Refrigerate the bag for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
By following these easy steps, you will have a flavorful and tender tenderloin steak ready for grilling!
Marinating Time
Marinating the tenderloin steak is an important step in cooking it on the grill. It helps to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. The ideal marinating time for a tenderloin steak is at least 1-2 hours, although you can marinate it for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor penetration.
Here are some tips for marinating your tenderloin steak:
- Choose a marinade that complements the flavor of the steak. Popular options include garlic and herb marinades, teriyaki marinades, and barbecue marinades.
- Place the tenderloin steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is completely covered.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for the desired marinating time.
- Occasionally, flip the steak in the marinade to ensure all sides are coated.
Remember to discard the marinade after use, as it may contain bacteria from the raw meat. Do not reuse the marinade for basting during cooking.
By marinating the tenderloin steak for the appropriate amount of time, you will ensure that the flavors permeate the meat, resulting in a juicy and delicious grilled steak.
FAQ
What is the best way to cook tenderloin steak on a grill?
The best way to cook tenderloin steak on a grill is to start by preheating the grill to high heat. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any desired spices. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Should I marinate the tenderloin steak before grilling?
Marinating the tenderloin steak before grilling is not necessary, as this cut is already tender and flavorful on its own. However, you can marinate it for extra flavor if you prefer. Use a marinade of your choice and let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours before grilling.
What temperature should the grill be set to for cooking tenderloin steak?
The grill should be preheated to high heat, around 400-450°F (204-232°C), for cooking tenderloin steak. This high heat helps to sear the steak on the outside and lock in the juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.
How long does it take to cook tenderloin steak on a grill?
The cooking time for tenderloin steak on a grill depends on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak. For a medium-rare steak, it usually takes about 4-6 minutes per side on high heat, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Thicker steaks may require a longer cooking time, while thinner steaks may cook faster.