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5 from 4 votes

Ina Garten's Slow Roasted Beef Tenderloin

This filet of beef tenderloin is cooked at a low temperature for an extended period of time which ensures an even medium-rare from edge to edge.
Serves 6-8 people.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 25 minutes
Resting time15 minutes
Total Time1 hour 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 1 whole filet of beef tenderloin trimmed and tied (4 1/2 pounds)
  • 3 tablespoons good olive oil
  • 4 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
  • 15-20 branches fresh tarragon

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 275°F degrees.
  • Place the filet on a sheet pan and pat it dry (all over) with paper towels. Brush the filet all over with the oil, reserving about half a tablespoon. Sprinkle it all over with the salt and pepper.  Place the tarragon branches around the beef, tying them in 4 or 5 places with kitchen twine to keep them in place, and then brush the tarragon with the reserved oil.
  • Roast the filet of beef for 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours, until the temperature registers 125-130°F degrees in the center for rare and 130-135°F degrees for medium-rare. Cover the filet with aluminum foil and allow to rest for 20 minutes. Remove tarragon & strings, slice thickly and serve warm or at room temperature. 
  • Recommended: Serve with Basil Parmesan Sauce or Classic Horseradish Cream Sauce.

Notes

Because the beef is slow roasted, the recipe can be adjusted to accommodate a small cut of beef without altering the time. Of course, keep an eye on it, but I have produced excellent results using varying size cuts. Simply, adjust your seasonings correctly. 
Recommended side sauces for serving are Horseradish Cream Sauce or Ina's Basil Parmesan Mayonnaise.