This small beef tenderloin steak recipe makes it easy to enjoy this restaurant-quality steak right at home. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked, delicious steak whenever you're in the mood to treat yourself.
Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat for about 30 seconds. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel, then season both sides with salt and pepper.Pro Tip: A cast-iron skillet works best for searing and oven-roasting. If you don’t have one, use another oven-safe skillet, as this recipe requires stovetop and oven cooking.
Place the steak in the hot skillet and sear for about 4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.Pro Tip: For the best sear, ensure your skillet is very hot before adding the steak. Searing locks in the juices and enhances flavor.
Transfer the skillet with the steak to the preheated oven and roast for about 5 minutes. Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness:125°F for rare130°F for medium-rare140°F for medium
After removing the steak from the oven, place a pat of butter on top and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices and flavors.
Notes
Bring Steak to Room Temperature: Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
Use the Right Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is ideal for its excellent heat retention, helping maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
Preheat Properly: Heat your skillet until it’s very hot before searing. This step is key to achieving a flavorful, golden crust on your beef tenderloin.
Season Evenly: Sprinkle salt and black pepper uniformly on both sides of the steak for a well-balanced flavor.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Target internal temperatures are:
125°F for rare
130°F for medium-rare
140°F for medium
Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes. This step locks in the juices and ensures a tender, flavorful steak.