Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

If you’re looking to impress your family and friends this holiday season with something rich, flavorful, and surprisingly quick to prepare, then the Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is your new festive go-to. This stunning centerpiece combines tender beef with a savory, aromatic stuffing that bursts with holiday cheer, making it perfect for Christmas dinners and special gatherings. Not only does it dazzle on the plate, but this recipe’s straightforward steps and vibrant ingredients ensure you spend less time in the kitchen and more enjoying your celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Time-Saving Delight: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy holiday cooks who want big flavor fast.
• Festive Flavors: Combines classic Christmas ingredients like herbs, cranberries, and nuts for a seasonal taste.
• Elegant Presentation: Makes an impressive main dish that looks gourmet but is easy to assemble.
• Customizable Filling: Easy to swap stuffing ingredients to match your family’s preferences and dietary needs.
• Perfect Portions: The tenderloin size ensures juicy slices for everyone without excess waste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it simple with quality ingredients that bring each bite to life. Every component has a role—whether it lends moistness, texture, or that festive aroma that warms the heart.

• Beef Tenderloin: Choose a fresh, center-cut piece around 2 pounds for the best tenderness and uniform cooking.
• Spinach or Kale: Adds a fresh, slightly earthy contrast to the richer beef and stuffing.
• Cranberries: Fresh or dried, these introduce a tart sweetness balancing savory flavors beautifully.
• Walnuts or Pecans: Offer a satisfying crunch and nutty undertone, enhancing texture.
• Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics that deepen the flavor profile.
• Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme): Bring classic Christmas aromas that elevate every bite.
• Cream cheese or Goat cheese: For creaminess and tang, binding the stuffing with buttery smoothness.
• Olive Oil or Butter: Helps sear the meat to a delicious crust and adds richness to the filling.
• Salt and Pepper: The foundational seasonings that bring all flavors together.

Variations for Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

This Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin recipe is incredibly flexible. Whether you’re tailoring it to dietary needs or simply craving a flavor twist, here are some easy ways to make it your own.

• Vegetarian Filling: Substitute beef with portobello mushrooms or a hearty vegetable roast for a meatless holiday main.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the stuffing for a festive heat.
• Cheese Swap: Use blue cheese or aged cheddar to bring sharpness and depth to the stuffing.
• Different Nuts: Swap walnuts for almonds or pistachios to vary the texture and flavor influence.
• Herb Mix: Experiment with sage or oregano to shift the aromatic profile to your liking.

How to Make Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

Step 1: Prepare the Tenderloin

Start by trimming any excess fat and silver skin from the beef tenderloin. Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly the meat by slicing it horizontally without cutting all the way through, then open it like a book to create a flat surface for stuffing.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

Sauté finely chopped onions and garlic in olive oil or butter until translucent and fragrant. Add chopped spinach or kale, cranberries, nuts, and herbs. Stir in cream cheese to bind everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Stuff and Roll

Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the opened tenderloin, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the meat back into its original shape, enclosing the filling. Secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep it intact during cooking.

Step 4: Sear the Meat

Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the rolled tenderloin on all sides until golden brown, creating a flavorful crust that locks juices inside.

Step 5: Roast in the Oven

Transfer the seared tenderloin to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare. Let it rest before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Pro Tips for Making Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

• Room Temperature Meat: Let the beef tenderloin sit out for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even roasting.
• Knife Skills: Use a sharp knife for butterflying and slicing to maintain clean edges.
• Don’t Overstuff: A moderate layer of filling prevents the roll from breaking apart.
• Rest After Roasting: Rest the meat for at least 10 minutes to keep it juicy and tender.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, check doneness with an instant read thermometer.

How to Serve Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

Garnishes

Fresh rosemary sprigs and a sprinkling of pomegranate seeds add a festive touch and bright pops of color that contrast beautifully with the warm beef slices.

Side Dishes

Pair this tenderloin with roasted root vegetables, creamy garlic mashed potatoes, or a vibrant cranberry sauce to complement the flavors and textures perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the tenderloin into thick medallions arranged in a fan shape on a wooden board or elegant serving platter, drizzling pan juices over the top for added flavor and shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.

Freezing

Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Use within 2 months for best taste and texture retention.

Reheating

Warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to keep the meat tender without overcooking it.

FAQs

Can I prepare the stuffed tenderloin in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed beef tenderloin a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook, which helps save time on the day of your celebration.

What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese for the stuffing?

Soft goat cheese, ricotta, or even mascarpone work wonderfully as alternatives, each bringing a slightly different but delicious creamy texture.

How do I know when the beef tenderloin is perfectly cooked?

Using a meat thermometer is key: aim for 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, which is ideal for tenderloin, and remember to let it rest before slicing.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid any stuffing additions like breadcrumbs; stick to nuts, fruits, and cheese instead.

What wine pairs well with Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin?

Rich red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot beautifully complement the savory and slightly sweet flavors of this stuffed beef dish.

Final Thoughts

This Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is the perfect blend of festive charm and practical ease, guaranteed to make your holiday dinner something truly special. Give this recipe a try and watch your guests delight in every bite while you enjoy stress-free cooking during the busiest season of the year.

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