Beef tenderloin, also known as filet mignon, is one of the most tender and delicious cuts of beef. When cooked properly, it is melt-in-your-mouth tender and incredibly flavorful However, reheating leftover beef tenderloin slices can be tricky If not done carefully, the reheating process can cause the meat to dry out, toughen up, and lose its fantastic flavor.
As a beef lover and frequent entertainer, I often cook tenderloin for dinner parties or special occasions. Inevitably, we always have leftovers. Through trial and error, I’ve learned the best techniques for reheating beef tenderloin slices while maintaining their tenderness and taste. In this article, I’ll share with you the methods I’ve found to be most successful so you can keep enjoying leftovers of this premium cut of beef.
Why Proper Reheating Is Critical for Beef Tenderloin
Beef tenderloin is an exceptionally tender cut of meat because it comes from a muscle that doesn’t get much use. As a result, the meat contains less connective tissue than other cuts. This gives tenderloin its velvety smooth texture, but also means it can become dry and tough if overcooked.
When reheating cooked meat, it’s very easy to expose it to too much heat, which causes it to lose moisture and toughen up. Because tenderloin is already so tender to begin with, it’s especially important to reheat it gently to preserve its texture.
If you’ve ever bitten into a reheated beef tenderloin slice only to find it chewy and flavorless, you understand why using the proper technique is so critical. The good news is that with a few simple guidelines, you can enjoy leftover tenderloin that tastes just as wonderful as the night you first cooked it
How to Store Leftover Beef Tenderloin Slices
Before we get into reheating methods, let’s discuss how to store cooked beef tenderloin properly in the first place. Correct storage is the first step in ensuring your leftovers retain their quality.
After cooking tenderloin, allow the meat to cool to room temperature. Then place the slices in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air from the container as possible before sealing.
Store the beef tenderloin in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days maximum. Any longer than that and the meat is at risk of spoiling. For best flavor and texture, try to reheat beef tenderloin within 1-2 days of cooking it.
Freezing is another excellent option for storing cooked tenderloin if you won’t use it within a few days. Simply wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap or place in freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen tenderloin will keep for 2-3 months.
Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Never thaw meat at room temperature, as this encourages bacterial growth.
Method 1: Reheat Beef Tenderloin Slices in the Oven
One of the easiest and most foolproof ways to reheat beef tenderloin slices is in the oven This method warms the meat through gradually and evenly without intense direct heat
Follow these simple steps for reheated tenderloin that looks and tastes freshly cooked:
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Preheat your oven to 250°F. This low temperature helps prevent overcooking.
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Place the beef tenderloin slices on a wire rack set on a baking sheet. The rack allows air to circulate under the meat for even heating.
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Bake the slices for approximately 15-20 minutes, until warmed through. Check for doneness after 15 minutes. The meat should be hot but not piping hot.
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For added flavor and crispy edges, turn on the oven broiler and broil the slices for 1-2 minutes after oven heating. Watch closely to avoid burning.
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Allow the slices to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain juices.
The oven method requires minimal effort while keeping the tenderloin remarkably moist and tender. Just be sure not to overbake, as the slice edges can dry out quickly.
Method 2: Reheat Beef Tenderloin Slices on the Stovetop
Another easy and effective reheating method is using the stovetop. Heating the slices in a skillet gives you more control over timing and temperature. Follow these stovetop reheating steps:
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Take the beef tenderloin slices out of the refrigerator and allow to come closer to room temperature, about 15-20 minutes.
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Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Choose a skillet that will fit all of the slices in a single layer.
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Add a teaspoon of olive oil or butter to the skillet. Swirl to coat the pan surface.
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Place the slices in the skillet and heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until warmed through. Use tongs to gently flip the slices.
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You can add a splash of beef broth or water to the skillet to create a little pan sauce as the slices reheat.
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Remove the slices from the skillet and tent with foil for 5 minutes before serving.
The benefit of stovetop reheating is it takes less time than the oven. You also get some caramelization on the meat from direct pan contact. Just be careful not overcook the slices.
Method 3: Reheat Beef Tenderloin Slices in the Microwave
I don’t recommend the microwave as the best reheating method for beef tenderloin because it tends to cook the meat unevenly. However, when you’re in a pinch for time, the microwave can get the job done. Here’s how to do it:
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Arrange the slices on a microwave-safe plate in a single layer. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
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Microwave on 50% power for 45 seconds per slice. Rearrange and flip slices halfway through.
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Check that the centers are heated through and continue microwaving in 15 second intervals if needed.
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Let the meat rest, tented with foil, for a couple minutes before serving. The slices will be very hot right out of the microwave.
The microwave can toughen and dry out tenderloin if you’re not extremely careful. Only use this
This Is The Only Way To Reheat Leftover Steak
FAQ
How do you reheat beef tenderloin without drying it out?
How do you warm up roast beef slices without drying it out?
How to reheat sliced filet mignon?
How do you reheat leftover beef tenderloin?
Place your leftover beef tenderloin on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish. If you have individual slices, separate them by about half an inch to ensure even heating. Cover the dish with foil or use an oven-safe lid to create a seal that will trap moisture during reheating.
Can You reheat beef tenderloin in an air fryer?
Wrap your beef tenderloin slices in foil and top them with any remaining juices. Depending on the thickness of your slices, heat the beef for 5 to 10 minutes. Before letting your slices rest and serving, check their temperature. When reheating beef tenderloin in an air fryer, slicing your meat is best.
Do beef Tenderloins need to be reheated?
Beef tenderloins are often reheated after being cooked initially – they can usually last up 3 days in the refrigerator before needing rewarming safely. Reheat until steaming hot throughout, which will take around 10 minutes on low heat in an oven or microwave depending on what type of appliance you are using.
How long does it take to reheat a tenderloin?
Place wrapped tenderloin pieces directly onto the oven rack and reheat for 10-15 minutes. (Time will depend of thickness of cuts.) To test my reheating techniques, I used pieces of a whole tenderloin roast, but your results may differ depending on the caliber of the meat you use.