tenderloin steak internal doneness : The Ultimate Guide to Cooking the Perfect
Cooking tenderloin steak internal doneness to perfection takes skill, patience, and the right techniques. This guide will show you everything you need to know, from choosing the right cut to using a meat thermometer for accuracy. Whether you’re making an easy beef tenderloin recipe, grilling, or using an oven-roasted beef method, this guide will ensure you get the perfect steak doneness every time. Let’s dive in.
tenderloin steak internal doneness vs. Filet Mignon: What’s the Difference?
Many people confuse beef tenderloin and filet mignon, but they are not the same. Beef tenderloin refers to the entire muscle running along the spine, while filet mignon is a small, tender section cut from the tenderloin.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Beef Tenderloin | Filet Mignon |
|---|---|---|
| Cut from | Whole tenderloin | Small portion of tenderloin |
| Texture | Lean, slightly firm | Buttery soft |
| Best Cooking Method | Roasting, grilling | Pan-searing, grilling |
If you’re cooking for a group, a beef tenderloin recipe is ideal. If you want an individual, high-end steak, filet mignon is a great choice.
Choosing the Perfect Beef tenderloin steak internal doneness
Not all beef tenderloin cuts are equal. USDA Prime beef has the highest quality due to its marbling, followed by USDA Choice and Select. Look for a tenderloin with consistent thickness to ensure even cooking.
For family-friendly steak recipes, buy a whole tenderloin and trim it yourself. If you’re short on time, ask your butcher to trim and tie the roast for you. Slicing beef tenderloin after cooking ensures that each guest gets a tender, juicy piece.
Essential Equipment for Cooking Beef tenderloin steak internal doneness
Cooking a tenderloin steak requires the right tools. A meat thermometer is a must for accuracy. Using an oven thermometer ensures your steak reaches the ideal oven temperature for a perfect cook.
A cast-iron skillet works best for high-temperature searing, while a roasting pan is great for an oven-roasted beef recipe. Other essentials include a sharp knife, butcher’s twine, and a basting brush for butter.
The Secret to the Perfect Brown Crust
A perfect steak crust forms when the steak is dry before cooking. Dry brining with salt enhances flavor and helps create a crisp sear. Blackening seasoning for meat adds extra depth to the crust.
Using high-temperature searing, cook each side for 2-3 minutes before moving it to the oven. This technique locks in juices while ensuring a crispy crust. A steak grilling technique using direct heat will also achieve this effect.
Best Cooking Methods for Beef tenderloin steak internal doneness
How to Cook Tenderloin Steak in the Oven
The ideal oven temperature for steak is 450°F. Preheat oven for tenderloin to ensure even cooking. Start by searing the steak in a cast-iron skillet, then transfer it to the oven for tenderloin steak cooking time of 10-15 minutes, depending on the internal temperature for steak.
BBQ vs. Oven Steak Preparation
A grilled tenderloin steak internal doneness has a smoky, charred flavor, while an oven-roasted beef version produces even cooking and a soft texture. Both methods deliver juicy, tender results if done correctly.
Best Degree of Doneness for Tenderloin Steak
Cooking tenderloin steak to the right doneness is essential. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and follow this steak internal temperature chart:
| Doneness | Internal Temperature (Before Resting) | Final Temperature (After Resting) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 115-120°F | 125°F |
| Medium-Rare | 125-130°F | 135°F |
| Medium | 135-140°F | 145°F |
| Medium-Well | 145-150°F | 155°F |
| Well-Done | 155°F+ | 160°F+ |
Medium vs. medium-rare steak is a personal preference, but medium-rare is the best choice for juiciness and tenderness.
tenderloin steak internal doneness Recipe with Herb Butter
Ingredients
- 2 tenderloin steaks
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp steak seasoning blends
- 1 tsp blackening seasoning for meat
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
Instructions
- Preheat oven for tenderloin to 450°F.
- Season steaks with steak seasoning blends and let them sit for 30 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat.
- Sear steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side for a perfect steak crust.
- Transfer to oven and cook for tenderloin steak cooking time of 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs.
- Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing beef tenderloin after cooking.
What to Serve with Beef Tenderloin Steak
For the best sides for steak dinner, choose classic options like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a creamy mushroom sauce. A BBQ rub for beef pairs well with a smoky red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon.
Expert Tips for the Best Beef Tenderloin
Always let your tenderloin steak internal doneness rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time for steak after oven keeps the juices locked inside.
For how long to cook beef tenderloin steak internal doneness, use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Overcooking ruins tenderness, so always check the internal temperature for steak before removing it from heat.
A family-friendly steak recipe includes simple seasoning with salt, pepper, and butter. Adding a BBQ rub for beef creates a smoky, bold flavor for grilling.
Conclusion
Mastering tenderloin steak internal doneness requires precision, technique, and the right cooking method. Whether you prefer a grilled tenderloin steak or an oven-roasted beef option, the key is using a meat thermometer for accuracy. Follow the perfect steak doneness guide and let the steak rest before serving. Cooking tenderloin steak is simple when you have the right knowledge, making every meal a perfect one.
