Hey friends! I’m back today to chat about how to cook a beef tenderloin in an electric roaster. I know some of ya’ll got those as gifts but aren’t quite sure how to use them. Well you’ve come to the right place!
Cooking a nice juicy tenderloin can seem intimidating. But have no fear – with a few tips and tricks, you can totally nail it in your electric roaster and impress your guests!
What is an Electric Roaster?
For those not in the know, an electric roaster is like a larger version of a Crockpot. It’s an oval or rectangular counter top appliance with a heating element in the bottom. Many models have temperature controls so you can set the exact temp.
Electric roasters are great for cooking large cuts of meat and even whole chickens or turkeys. They distribute heat gently and evenly, resulting in juicy, tender meat without drying it out.
Benefits of Using an Electric Roaster for Beef Tenderloin
There are a few key benefits to using an electric roaster for your tenderloin:
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Even cooking: The heating element in the bottom circulates heat throughout the roaster, ensuring even cooking. No cold or hot spots like you might get in the oven.
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Self bastes: The tight seal traps in moisture, so the meat essentially bastes itself while cooking. Super juicy!
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Frees up oven space: You can cook your tenderloin in the roaster while using your oven for sides, rolls, etc.
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Portability: Bring the cooked tenderloin right to the table in the roaster. No need to transfer to a serving platter.
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Low maintenance: Set the temp and walk away. Minimal checking or fussing over it while cooking.
Tips for Cooking Beef Tenderloin in an Electric Roaster
Follow these tips and you’ll have a restaurant-quality tenderloin made easy at home:
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Use a 3-5 lb tenderloin. Go too small and it’ll overcook. Too large won’t fit. The roaster is ideal for a nice 3-5 lb tenderloin serving 6-10 people.
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Season well. Rub the tenderloin all over with olive oil, salt, pepper and any other spices or herbs. Get the seasoning evenly distributed.
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Use a rack. Place a metal cooling rack in the bottom of the roaster. This allows air flow under the meat for even cooking.
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Brown first. I like to sear the tenderloin on the stove top before roasting – maybe 2 mins per side. This gives great color and flavor.
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Cook at 200 ̊F. Cook low and slow at 200 ̊F for best results. This gently brings the center up to temp without overcooking the outside.
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Cook times: For a 3 lb tenderloin, cook about 2 hours. For a 5 lb, cook 3 hours. Use a meat thermometer to confirm 120 ̊F for medium rare.
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Rest before slicing. Let the tenderloin rest 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute through the meat. Dig right in!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for tenderloin success:
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Take the tenderloin out of the fridge and let sit at room temp for 30 mins. Pat dry with paper towels.
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Season all over with olive oil, salt, pepper and any other spices. Really coat that baby up!
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Sear tenderloin on stove top for 2 mins per side to get a nice brown crust.
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Place a metal cooling rack in the bottom of your electric roaster. Pour 1 cup beef broth or wine in the bottom for extra moisture.
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Put seared tenderloin on top of the rack in the roaster. No need to tie or truss it.
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Cover roaster and cook at 200 ̊F for 2-3 hours depending on weight. Check temp periodically.
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Once internal temp reaches 120 ̊F, remove roaster from heat. Let tenderloin rest 15-20 mins.
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Carefully transfer to a cutting board and slice against the grain into 1/2 inch slices.
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Serve with your favorite sides and wow your guests! Enjoy your expertly cooked beef tenderloin!
Common Questions
Got beef tenderloin questions? Here are some common FAQs:
What if I don’t have a rack? No worries! You can place some veggie chunks or onion slices in the bottom of the roaster to lift the tenderloin up.
Can I cook it directly in the roaster? You can, but it may end up stewing in its juices a bit. The rack helps let moisture escape.
What temperature should it be? Pull it at 120 ̊F for a nice red center. 125 ̊F for more towards medium.
Do I need to baste or flip it? Nope, the tight seal self bastes it. No need to flip.
What if it’s done early? Turn off the roaster and let it sit in residual heat. It holds temp well.
Can I stuff it? You sure can! Just be sure to truss it closed so the stuffing doesn’t escape.
Get Creative with Flavor
Plain tenderloin is delicious, but you can also get creative with flavors:
- Stuff with caramelized onions, mushrooms and goat cheese.
- Marinate overnight in a bold coffee rub or red wine marinade.
- Coat with cracked peppercorns, thyme and garlic.
- Top with compound butter after cooking for a delightful melt.
- Inject with broth or marinade for added moisture. Get inventive!
The possibilities are endless. It’s hard to go wrong with a nice beef tenderloin!
Enjoy Your Electric Roaster Tenderloin!
Well there you have it friends – everything you need to know to rock beef tenderloin in your electric roaster!
Happy roasting friends!
BEEF TENDERLOIN ROAST | easy, foolproof recipe for Christmas dinner
FAQ
Which cooking method is best for beef tenderloin?
Does an electric roaster cook the same as an oven?
Can you brown meat in an electric roaster?
Can you put liquid in an electric roaster?