Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

If you want to dazzle your guests with something truly special this holiday season, the Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is your perfect go-to. This dish combines tender, juicy beef with rich, flavorful fillings that bring festive charm without hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re seeking a main you can prepare quickly or aiming to impress at a family dinner, these stuffed beef tenderloin ideas offer an easy yet elegant solution for your Christmas feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Preparation: You can whip up this tenderloin in under an hour, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules.
• Elegant Presentation: The stuffed center creates a gorgeous reveal that looks fantastic when sliced.
• Flavor Explosion: Combining savory fillings with prime beef delivers complex tastes in every bite.
• Versatile Filling Options: Customize with herbs, cheeses, and dried fruits for your perfect holiday blend.
• Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for sharing at festive dinners or intimate gatherings alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin recipe uses simple but essential ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Each component enhances the texture, color, and seasonality to make your holiday meal truly memorable.

• Beef Tenderloin: A whole center-cut piece delivers tender, juicy meat that’s perfect for stuffing.
• Spinach: Fresh or sautéed spinach adds earthiness and vibrant green color.
• Mushrooms: Finely chopped for a rich, umami-packed stuffing base.
• Goat Cheese or Cream Cheese: Adds creamy tang and binds the filling together.
• Dried Cranberries: For a sweet, festive pop that brightens the flavor.
• Garlic and Herbs: Classic seasonings like thyme and rosemary boost aroma and taste.
• Olive Oil and Butter: For searing and roasting to create a beautifully caramelized crust.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to highlight the natural flavors.

Variations for Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

One of the best parts about this Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is how easy it is to adapt based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment with these ideas and make the recipe your own.

• Cheese Swap: Use blue cheese or fontina instead of goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Stuffing: Replace beef with portobello mushrooms stuffed with the same filling for veggie friends.
• Nutty Addition: Add toasted pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch inside the stuffing.
• Spice Twist: Incorporate a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a subtle kick.
• Fruit Variations: Substitute dried apricots or figs for cranberries to vary sweetness and texture.

How to Make Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by trimming the beef tenderloin and carefully slicing it lengthwise without cutting all the way through to create a pocket for stuffing.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Sauté finely chopped mushrooms and garlic in a bit of olive oil and butter until soft, then stir in spinach and dried cranberries. Remove from heat and fold in the goat cheese and fresh herbs.

Step 3: Stuff the Tenderloin

Gently open the tenderloin and evenly spread the prepared filling inside. Carefully fold the meat back over and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.

Step 4: Sear and Roast

Heat a pan with olive oil and sear the tenderloin on all sides to lock in juices. Transfer to a preheated oven and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until your preferred doneness.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Remove from the oven and let the beef rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

Pro Tips for Making Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

• Room Temperature Meat: Let the tenderloin sit out for 30 minutes before cooking for even roasting.
• Secure Your Stuffing: Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep the filling intact during cooking.
• Don’t Overstuff: Keep stuffing thickness moderate to avoid uneven cooking or bursting.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare to maintain tenderness.
• Rest the Meat: Always rest post-roasting; it’s key to juicy slices and easy carving.

How to Serve Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs or thyme add a festive look and enhance aroma right at the table. A few whole dried cranberries scattered on the platter brighten the color and invite curiosity.

Side Dishes

This stuffed tenderloin pairs brilliantly with classic roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a vibrant winter salad with pomegranate seeds to keep the theme festive and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the tenderloin into thick medallions and arrange in a circular pattern for eye-catching appeal. Serve on a warmed platter lined with rosemary sprigs and cranberries for that perfect holiday centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve flavor and moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked stuffed beef tenderloin by wrapping it securely in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven (around 275°F/135°C) covered with foil to keep the beef tender and the stuffing moist, or warm slices in a skillet over medium-low heat.

FAQs

Can I make Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tenderloin up to the searing step and keep it refrigerated overnight before roasting the next day for fresh, hot results.

What cut of beef is best for this recipe?

Center-cut beef tenderloin works best due to its tenderness and shape, allowing easy stuffing and even cooking.

Can I use other cheeses instead of goat cheese?

Absolutely, cream cheese, blue cheese, or fontina all work well and add different flavor dimensions to the stuffing.

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

Using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare; it will continue cooking slightly while resting.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Definitely. The steps are straightforward, and the recipe is forgiving, perfect for cooks wanting an impressive holiday main without hassle.

Final Thoughts

Nothing says festive like a delicious, juicy Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin on the dinner table. It’s a straightforward yet stunning dish that blends traditional holiday flavors with modern ease, guaranteed to bring smiles and second helpings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying this recipe for the first time, it’s worth making your Christmas extra special with this show-stopping tenderloin.

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