Serving up two perfectly cooked beef tenderloins is a surefire way to impress dinner guests. But attempting to roast two tenderloins simultaneously can seem tricky. How do you ensure both tenderloins turn out moist tender and beautifully medium-rare without one over or undercooking?
Not to worry! With the right techniques you can nail cooking two tenderloins at once. This guide covers everything from choosing the right tenderloins to prep seasoning, cook times and resting. Follow these tips for flawless results.
Tips for Selecting Tenderloins
When cooking two tenderloins together, choose roasts that are similar in shape and thickness. This allows them to cook at the same rate. Opt for:
- Whole tenderloin roasts (the tapered “tail” end will cook faster so position it towards the center of the pan)
- Center-cut filet mignon roasts
Aim for roasts about 2-3 pounds each. Go for well-marbled Prime or Choice grade beef for maximum tenderness.
Prep the Tenderloins
Proper prep is key for even cooking.
- Pat the tenderloins dry and trim off any excess fat or silverskin
- Coat all over with olive oil and generously season with salt, pepper and herbs
- Allow meat to come to room temperature before cooking, about 30 minutes
This helps the interior cook more gently later.
Sear the Tenderloins
- In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat
- Add tenderloins and brown for 1-2 minutes per side, including the ends
- Searing adds a flavorful crust without overcooking the interior
Roast the Tenderloins
- Preheat oven to 425°F
- Place tenderloins on a wire rack set inside a roasting pan
- Roast for 25-35 minutes until internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare
Use an instant read thermometer to check doneness. If one tenderloin reaches temp first, remove it and tent foil.
Rest and Carve
- Transfer to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil
- Allow to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing
- Slice into 1/2″ thick medallions across the grain
Resting redistributes juices for tender, juicy meat.
Follow these steps for perfect medium-rare tenderloins ready to serve. Read on for more tips to ensure roasting success.
7 Key Tips for Roasting Two Tenderloins
Cooking two tenderloins at once takes finesse. Employ these pro tips:
1. Choose Same-Sized Roasts – Matching roasts allows even cooking.
2. Preheat Thoroughly – Give your oven at least 30 minutes to fully heat.
3. Use a Searing Method – Quickly browning the exterior adds flavor.
4. Roast at a High Temp – Cook at 425°F for a tender, juicy interior.
5. Use a Meat Thermometer – Accurately monitors doneness of each roast.
6. Let Meat Rest – Allows juices to redistribute for tender results.
7. Slice Across the Grain – Maximizes tenderness when cutting medallions.
Follow this cheat sheet, and you can serve up restaurant-quality twin tenderloins.
Choosing the Right Pan Size
Having the right pan size is key when roasting two tenderloins. Choose a roasting pan that allows space between the roasts without crowding them:
- A pan with at least 2-inch high sides works well
- Use a wire rack to elevate the meat and promote air circulation
- Avoid overcrowding that can lead to uneven cooking
If you don’t have a roasting pan, use a rimmed baking sheet with a wire rack. Give the tenderloins room to cook evenly.
Seasoning and Flavoring Your Tenderloins
When it comes to seasoning, simple is often best. Some easy options:
- Coarse sea salt and cracked black pepper
- Lemon-pepper seasoning or steak seasoning blends
- Minced fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme and sage
- Compound butters with ingredients like garlic, parsley or bleu cheese
Consider cooking each tenderloin with a different seasoning blend to please multiple palates. Or marinate one tenderloin in a flavorful marinade before roasting.
Monitoring Internal Temperature
Using an instant-read thermometer is crucial for cooking beef tenderloin to perfection:
- Rare: 120-125°F
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Medium-well: 150-155°F
Check the temp of each tenderloin periodically. This ensures both roasts reach your target doneness without over or undercooking.
Common Roasting Questions
Cooking two tenderloins together often raises questions for home cooks. Here are some common FAQs:
How long does it take to roast two tenderloins?
For 2-3 lb tenderloins, roast at 425°F for 25-35 minutes. Check temperature early and extend roasting if needed.
Should I rotate the tenderloins?
Swapping rack positions halfway through can promote even cooking. But opening the oven causes heat loss.
What if one tenderloin is smaller?
Monitor the smaller tenderloin closely. Once 125°F, remove it from oven, tent foil and let rest.
Do I need to double the cook time?
No, roasting two tenderloins takes about 1.5 times as long as roasting one, not twice as long.
How can I prevent overcooking or drying out?
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Roasting at a high temp cooks the interior before drying out the exterior.
Have any other questions about roasting two beef tenderloins simultaneously? Ask in the comments!
Sample Timeline for Roasting Tenderloins
To give you an idea of timing, here is a sample timeline for roasting two 3-pound tenderloins:
- 2:00 pm: Remove tenderloins from fridge, season, let sit 30 min
- 2:30 pm: Sear tenderloins 2 min per side in hot skillet
- 2:35 pm: Place seared tenderloins in preheated 425°F oven
- 3:05 pm: Check temperature of smaller tenderloin
- 3:10 pm: Smaller tenderloin reaches 125°F, remove from oven and tent foil
- 3:15 pm: Check temperature of second tenderloin
- 3:20 pm: Second tenderloin reaches 125°F, remove from oven
- 3:30 pm: Allow roasts to rest 10 minutes
- 3:40 pm: Carve tenderloins and serve!
As you can see, roasting two 3-pound tenderloins takes approximately 30-40 minutes at 425°F after searing. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
Handling Leftover Tenderloin
Leftover tenderloin makes great meals throughout the week. Here are some delicious ways to use up leftover roast:
- Slice and use for steak sandwiches or top salads
- Dice and add to fried rice or pasta dishes
- Shred and use for beef tacos or nachos
- Cook into a beef stir-fry with vegetables
- Simmer in a pasta sauce or stew
- Make beef skewers for the grill
Refrigerate leftover roasted tenderloin within 2 hours and reheat within 3-4 days. With endless options, you can transform leftovers into easy new meals.
Serving Suggestions for Tenderloin
When serving two tenderloins, choose sides that highlight the meat without overpowering. Ideas include:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Sauteed mushrooms
- Roasted asparagus
- Creamed spinach or kale
- Scalloped potatoes
- Honey glazed carrots
- Dinner rolls or bread basket
A rich red wine reduction or béarnaise sauce also makes an elegant accompaniment for seared tenderloin.
When planning a special dinner, don’t be intimidated by cooking two beef tenderloins at once. With the right techniques, you can achieve beautiful results worthy of any occasion. Just follow this guide for tender, juicy tenderloins your guests will rave about. Enjoy!
BEEF TENDERLOIN ROAST | easy, foolproof recipe for Christmas dinner
How to cook beef tenderloin in a pan?
Season all sides of the tenderloin liberally with salt and pepper. Add the tablespoon of butter and oil to your heated skillet. Sear the meat on all sides (including the ends), for 1 ½-2 minutes per side until an even golden-brown crust forms. Transfer the meat your baking pan and roast for 15-17 minutes for medium-rare.
How long does it take to cook a 2 pound beef tenderloin?
Usually beef tenderloin is served medium rare. Let the beef tenderloin rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. The temperature of the meat will rise 10 degrees as the meat rests. It will take about 45 minutes to prepare a 2-pound beef tenderloin.
How do you cook roasted beef tenderloin?
A recipe for the best roasted beef tenderloin made with a thick peppered crust, cooked to perfection. Set out the tenderloin out at room temperature 45 minutes prior to roasting. Preheat the oven to 425° and have ready a roasting pan fitted with a rack. Add freshly ground pepper to a small bowl, add the salt and stir to mix.
How do you halve a beef tenderloin?
Halve the beef tenderloin into two equal portions. Tie each piece snuggly with strands of kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals, while tucking thinner tail end under if there is one to create a roast with even thickness. Season each portion liberally with kosher salt (I use 2 Tbsp, but season to your preference).