Beef Tenderloin Roast with Horseradish Cream Sauce Recipe

If you are searching for a show-stopping dish that blends tender, flavorful beef with a zesty, cooling sauce, the Beef Tenderloin Roast with Horseradish Cream Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. This recipe captures the essence of a special occasion or family dinner with its perfectly seasoned roast, showcasing herbs and spices that create a beautiful crust and deeply savory profile, complemented by a luscious horseradish cream sauce that cuts through with just the right amount of tang and heat. It’s a celebration of rich taste and elegant simplicity, making it a favorite to share and savor again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients ensures your beef tenderloin roast will have the perfect balance of robust flavors and aromatic herbs, while the horseradish cream sauce adds a velvety finish that’s both bright and creamy. Each item plays a key role in texture, taste, and color, making this recipe a hearty yet refined centerpiece.

• Beef tenderloin (4–5 lbs): The star of the dish, known for its tenderness and rich flavor.
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Basics that enhance the beef’s natural flavors.
• Dried oregano, tarragon, rosemary, thyme (1 tablespoon each): A fragrant blend of herbs that create an earthy, aromatic crust.
• Onion powder & garlic powder (2 teaspoons each): These add a deep, savory hint that elevates the roast.
• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the seasoning.
• Olive oil (5 tablespoons plus extra for searing): Helps develop a beautiful sear and keeps the meat juicy.
• Maple syrup (2 tablespoons): Brings a touch of sweetness that balances spices perfectly.
• Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons): Offers umami depth to the marinade for a rich finish.
• Whole grain Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a tangy, slightly sharp flavor to brighten the roast.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Used in the sauce to create luxurious creaminess.
• Garlic paste (2 teaspoons): Provides a mellow garlic flavor in the sauce without overpowering.
• Heavy whipping cream (¾ cup): The base for a silky, rich horseradish cream sauce.
• Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle sharpness and ties the sauce flavors together.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the horseradish sauce with a burst of acidity.
• Distilled white vinegar (2 teaspoons): Enhances the tang and balances richness in the sauce.
• Prepared horseradish (3 tablespoons): The zesty kick that defines the sauce’s bold character.

How to Make Beef Tenderloin Roast with Horseradish Cream Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Herb Spice Rub

Start by combining your dried oregano, tarragon, rosemary, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This spice rub will create the flavorful crust that makes this beef tenderloin truly special. Mixing these herbs and spices beforehand ensures an even coating for that perfect blend of aroma and taste.

Step 2: Season and Marinate the Beef

Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels, then drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over it. Rub the prepared spice blend thoroughly all over the tenderloin, pressing it in gently. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, whole grain Dijon mustard, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Brush this mixture evenly onto the beef. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor penetration.

Step 3: Sear the Tenderloin

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large ovenproof skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and adds a wonderfully savory note to the roast.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Transfer the skillet with the seared beef to the preheated oven. Roast for about 20-30 minutes, depending on the thickness and your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer for precision: 125°F (52°C) for rare, 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, or 145°F (63°C) for medium. Remove the roast from the oven, tent with foil, and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute beautifully.

Step 5: Make the Warm Horseradish Cream Sauce

While the beef rests, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the garlic paste and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Slowly add the heavy whipping cream, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Whisk in Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, distilled white vinegar, and prepared horseradish. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm until ready to serve.

How to Serve Beef Tenderloin Roast with Horseradish Cream Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme sprigs complement the beef’s herbal crust and make a pretty, aromatic garnish. Thin slices of lemon or a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper add a touch of brightness that visually and flavor-wise enhance each serving plate.

Side Dishes

This roast shines alongside creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables, which soak up the horseradish cream sauce beautifully. A simple green salad with a tart vinaigrette or steamed green beans with lemon pairs well to balance out the richness of the beef and sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, carve the beef tenderloin into medallions and drizzle the warm horseradish cream sauce over each. Serve family-style on a wooden board with sauce in a small bowl for guests to help themselves. Adding colorful roasted vegetables or a bed of sautéed mushrooms adds depth and elegance to your plating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover beef tenderloin should be wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. It will keep well for up to 3 days without losing much of its flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked beef tenderloin by slicing it first and storing the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. This prevents clumping and helps maintain texture. The horseradish cream sauce freezes best if stored separately in a sealed container, but it might separate slightly upon thawing; whisk well before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat beef tenderloin gently in a low oven (about 250°F / 120°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out. The horseradish cream sauce reheats quickly in a saucepan over low heat, whisking to restore consistency. Avoid boiling the sauce to keep it smooth and velvety.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried for this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs can provide a brighter, fresher taste. Use about three times the amount if substituting for dried. Add some fresh herbs to the sauce as a garnish for an extra pop of flavor.

Is there a way to make the horseradish cream sauce less spicy?

If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of prepared horseradish or use a milder variety. You can also add a little extra cream or butter to tone down the heat while keeping the sauce rich and flavorful.

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

The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F (57°C) internal temperature, then let it rest as it continues to cook slightly with residual heat. The beef should be juicy and tender, not dry or overcooked.

Can I prepare this recipe for a large group?

Yes! This recipe scales beautifully. You can roast multiple tenderloins or larger cuts. Just be mindful of adjusting oven times and ensuring you have a large enough pan for even searing and roasting.

What wine pairing goes best with this Beef Tenderloin Roast with Horseradish Cream Sauce Recipe?

A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs beautifully with the rich beef and the sharpness of the horseradish cream sauce. The wine’s tannins complement the roast’s savory depth, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Tenderloin Roast with Horseradish Cream Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration every time you serve it. The tender, herb-infused beef combined with the luscious and tangy sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a special occasion or an indulgent weekend dinner, this recipe invites you to take your time, savor the process, and enjoy every delicious bite with friends and family. Give it a try — I promise it won’t disappoint!

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