How Much Beef Tenderloin Should You Buy for 8 Adults?

Beef tenderloin is a delicious tender cut of meat that makes an elegant entrée for dinner parties or special occasions. But buying the right amount for a group can be tricky. So how many pounds of beef tenderloin should you buy for 8 adults?

In general, plan on purchasing 2-3 pounds of beef tenderloin to serve 8 people. But the exact amount depends on a few factors. Read on for more details on serving size, the number of slices per tenderloin, and shopping tips to ensure you buy enough for your guests.

Determining Serving Size

To estimate how much tenderloin to buy, you first need to know the typical serving size. Here are some guidelines:

• For an appetizer or side dish, plan on 2-4 ounces per person
• For a main entrée, allow 6-8 ounces per person
• For a dinner party with multiple courses, allot 4-6 ounces per person

Since tenderloin is often the star of a multi-course meal, plan on purchasing 6-8 ounces per guest if serving as the main dish.

For 8 adults, that means you’ll need:

• 8 people x 6 ounces = 48 ounces
• 48 ounces / 16 ounces per pound = 3 pounds

So if serving tenderloin as the main course for 8 adults, start with about 3 pounds before roasting and carving.

Factoring in Leftovers

Don’t forget to account for leftovers! It’s better to have extra cooked tenderloin than to run out.

To allow for leftovers, add an extra 1/2 to 1 pound. For 8 people, increase the amount to:

• 3 pounds tenderloin
• Plus 1 extra pound
• Total of 4 pounds

This allows for 8 full 6-8 ounce servings, with some leftover for snacking.

Considering the Number of Slices

Another way to estimate is by how many slices you need. Each pound of tenderloin yields about 8-12 slices when cut 1/2 inch thick.

For 8 people eating a 6 ounce serving, you’ll need approximately:

• 8 people x 2 slices per person = 16 slices
• 16 slices / 10 slices per pound = 1.6 pounds
• Round up to 2 pounds to allow for extra slices

Then add another 1-2 pounds to have leftovers. So around 3-4 pounds total.

Tips for Buying Beef Tenderloin

When purchasing beef tenderloin for a dinner party:

• Buy it 2-3 days in advance for dry aging. This enhances tenderness.

• Look for uniform shape and color with minimal fat.

• Figure 2-3 pounds for 8 people as the main dish.

• Allow extra weight if offering leftovers.

• Estimate about 10 slices per pound when carving.

• Whole tenderloins allow you to trim and portion as needed.

• Choose center-cut fillets for most consistency.

• Have the butcher tie it for easier roasting.

With the right calculations and these purchasing tips, you’ll buy the perfect amount of tenderloin for your guests!

Handling and Cooking Tenderloin for a Crowd

Once you’ve bought the ideal amount of tenderloin, properly handling and cooking it is key:

• Thaw frozen tenderloin for 2-3 days in the fridge if not fresh.

• Tie tenderloin at 2-inch intervals to maintain shape during roasting.

• Season the meat well with salt, pepper, herbs, and spices or marinades.

• Sear all sides in an oven-safe pan, then roast at 400°F to an internal temperature of 145°F.

• Allow the meat to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

• Carve into 1/2 inch slices across the grain for tenderness.

• Arrange artfully on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

With proper preparation, your guests will be amazed at how delicious beef tenderloin can be!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Here are some ideas for rounding out the meal:

• Pair with rich sauces like béarnaise, chimichurri, peppercorn or red wine reduction.

• Offer herb-roasted potatoes, rice pilaf or pasta as base for the tenderloin.

• Serve a colorful mix of roasted or grilled veggies like carrots, asparagus, Brussels sprouts etc.

• Make a show-stopping roast tenderloin Wellington wrapped in puff pastry.

• Complement the beef with lighter sides like a fresh salad or vegetable medley.

• Provide artisanal bread baskets and compound butter.

• For dessert, elegant options like Crème brûlée or chocolate mousse are divine.

When prepared properly and served with delicious accompaniments, beef tenderloin satisfies any special occasion. Plan for 2-3 pounds per 8 guests, and up to 4 pounds including leftovers. With the right quantity purchased and a little finesse in the kitchen, you’ll do dinner right!