Roasted Beef Tenderloin with French Onions and Horseradish Sauce: The Ultimate Recipe for Special Celebrations

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When you think of a meal that can truly wow your guests and elevate any occasion, roasted beef tenderloin is likely one of the first dishes that comes to mind. Its rich, succulent flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness make it a crowd-pleaser for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or even a special night at home. But when paired with the perfect complement of caramelized French onions and a tangy horseradish sauce, this dish becomes something extraordinary.

In this article, I will walk you through how to create this exquisite Roasted Beef Tenderloin with French Onions and Horseradish Sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone new to the kitchen, you’ll find everything you need to know, from prepping the ingredients to cooking the perfect beef tenderloin. By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to serve a truly memorable meal that everyone will love.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Ingredients for Roasted Beef Tenderloin with French Onions and Horseradish Sauce

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s start with the ingredients you’ll need. For this recipe, you’ll be working with three components: the French onions, the horseradish sauce, and the beef tenderloin itself. Each of these ingredients brings something unique to the table, but together, they create a harmonious, mouthwatering dish.

Table: Recipe Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Olive oil	As needed
Butter	3 tablespoons
Thinly sliced onions	2 ½ lbs
Kosher salt	To taste
Freshly cracked black pepper	To taste
Fresh thyme sprigs	2 large sprigs
Fresh rosemary sprigs	2 large sprigs
Bay leaf	1
Sherry wine	¼ cup
Mayonnaise	6 oz
Sour cream	6 oz
Prepared horseradish	3 oz
Lemon zest and juice	From 1 lemon
Trimmed whole beef tenderloin	3 lbs
Granulated garlic	1 tablespoon

These ingredients are simple, yet each one plays a critical role in delivering flavor to this dish. From the savory French onions to the creamy and slightly spicy horseradish sauce, and of course, the tenderloin that serves as the centerpiece, this combination will surely impress.

Step 1 – Making the French Onions

The French onions are the foundation of this dish, bringing depth, sweetness, and a touch of savory flavor. Slow-cooked to perfection, these onions become soft, caramelized, and full of character. Here’s how to make them.

Sautéing the Onions

Start by heating a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the pot and then add the butter. Let the butter melt, and once it’s bubbling, toss in your thinly sliced onions. Be sure to season with a good pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir the onions often to ensure they cook evenly and begin to soften. This will take about 10 minutes.

Caramelizing the Onions

Once the onions have softened, lower the heat to medium-low and add the fresh thyme sprigs, rosemary sprigs, and bay leaf. Now, it’s time to let the onions cook low and slow. Allow them to caramelize for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The key here is patience—let the onions become tender and golden brown as their natural sugars release and deepen in flavor.

Finishing the French Onions

Once the onions have reached a rich, caramelized color, stir in the sherry wine. Let the mixture simmer for another 15 minutes to let the wine reduce and absorb into the onions. Afterward, remove the herb sprigs and bay leaf, and taste the onions. If needed, adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper. Keep the French onions warm until you’re ready to serve.

Step 2 – Making the Horseradish Sauce

This creamy, zesty horseradish sauce is the perfect contrast to the savory beef and sweet onions. It adds a sharp, refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the meat. Here’s how to make it.

Combining the Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, prepared horseradish, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well incorporated. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Chilling the Sauce

For the best results, refrigerate the horseradish sauce until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld together and intensify as it chills, so don’t skip this step.

Step 3 – Preparing and Roasting the Beef Tenderloin

Now, for the star of the show: the beef tenderloin. This cut of beef is known for its tenderness and incredible flavor, making it perfect for roasting. Follow these steps to prepare and roast the beef to perfection.

Prepping the Beef

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a rack on a sheet pan, and set your beef tenderloin on top. Pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels to ensure that the seasoning sticks and the meat roasts evenly. Let the beef sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking—it will help the meat cook more evenly.

Seasoning the Beef

Drizzle a little olive oil over the beef and rub it all over to coat the meat. In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, granulated garlic, and freshly cracked black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly over the beef, making sure every side is well-seasoned.

Roasting the Beef

Place the sheet pan with the tenderloin into the preheated oven and roast for about 30 minutes. This time may vary depending on your oven, but a meat thermometer is your best friend here. Insert it into the thickest part of the beef and roast until it reaches 135°F (medium-rare). If you prefer a different doneness, adjust the roasting time accordingly:

• 125°F for rare
• 140°F for medium
• 150°F for medium-well

Once your beef has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring that every slice is tender and juicy.

Step 4 – Slicing and Serving

Now that your beef has rested, it’s time to slice and serve this gorgeous dish. Here’s how to do it:

Slicing the Beef

Using a sharp knife, slice the beef tenderloin into ¼-inch thick slices. The goal here is to create perfectly uniform slices so that each one holds the rich flavor of the beef and seasoning.

Serving the Dish

Place the slices of beef on a platter and serve them alongside the warm French onions. Don’t forget to add a generous dollop of the horseradish sauce on the side for that perfect burst of flavor. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a beautiful touch.

Why Roasted Beef Tenderloin with French Onions and Horseradish Sauce is Perfect for Special Occasions

There’s something undeniably special about a roasted beef tenderloin dinner. Its elegant presentation and rich flavor make it ideal for holidays, anniversaries, or any meal where you want to impress your guests.

• Impressive Presentation: This dish looks stunning when plated, with the perfectly sliced tenderloin, caramelized onions, and creamy horseradish sauce coming together to create a visually striking meal.
• Flavorful Experience: The balance between the tender, juicy beef, the sweet French onions, and the tangy horseradish sauce offers a rich and satisfying flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile for Any Celebration: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special weekend dinner, this dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion. It’s a surefire way to make your meal memorable.

FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About Roasted Beef Tenderloin with French Onions and Horseradish Sauce

Q1: Can I prepare the French onions and horseradish sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Both the French onions and horseradish sauce can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store the onions in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat them gently before serving. Similarly, keep the horseradish sauce in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Q2: How do I ensure my beef tenderloin is cooked perfectly?

The key is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare beef, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F. Remember to rest the beef for at least 15 minutes after roasting so the juices can redistribute, ensuring the meat stays tender.

Q3: Can I use a different cut of beef instead of tenderloin?

You can use other cuts like rib-eye or strip steak, but be aware that these cuts might require different cooking times. Tenderloin is the most tender cut, making it the best option for this recipe.

Q4: How can I adjust the spiciness of the horseradish sauce?

If you prefer a milder horseradish sauce, simply reduce the amount of prepared horseradish or opt for a milder version. You can always add more if you want extra heat!

Conclusion: A Delicious and Memorable Meal

Roasted Beef Tenderloin with French Onions and Horseradish Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. With tender, perfectly roasted beef, sweet and savory caramelized onions, and a zesty, creamy horseradish sauce, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing a special meal for family and friends or hosting an elegant dinner, this recipe will surely impress. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy one of the most memorable meals you’ll ever prepare.

Happy cooking!

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