SPREAD LOVE

Slow Cooker Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin With Creamy Dijon And Herb Sauce

Name: Slow Cooker Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin With Creamy Dijon And Herb Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 beef tenderloin (about 2-3 pounds); 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for searing); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

When it comes to special occasions or weekend feasts at home, nothing beats the savory aroma of a well-cooked beef tenderloin. This Slow Cooker Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Dijon and Herb Sauce might just become your go-to recipe for impressing family and friends. Juicy, tender, and flavorful, this dish is wonderfully easy to prepare, making it perfect for both cooking novices and seasoned chefs alike. Let’s dive into what makes this meal so extraordinary.

Why Make This Recipe

It’s a perfect blend of flavors that meld beautifully in the slow cooker, creating a rich and aromatic dish.
The creamy Dijon and herb sauce elevates the tenderloin, adding a luxurious touch that’s sure to please.
Cooking with a slow cooker frees you up to focus on other details of your meal or spend quality time with guests.

Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family gathering or a special celebration, this dish guarantees a flavorful experience that’s worth every bite.

Easy Method for Slow Cooker Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin

Cooking a beef tenderloin in a slow cooker may seem like a simple task, but the secret lies in the preparation. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your tenderloin the star of any dinner table.

Step 1: Prepare Beef Tenderloin

Start by trimming away any excess silver skin and fat from the beef tenderloin. Make sure to dry it thoroughly with paper towels. This extra step is crucial, as a dry surface enables the meat to sear beautifully, locking in the juices.

Step 2: Create Herb Rub

In a small bowl, combine the following ingredients to create a fragrant herb rub:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon dried sage

Mix the ingredients until they form a paste, then generously rub this mixture all over the trimmed beef tenderloin. The herb blend provides a wonderful crust that enhances flavor and texture during the cooking process.

Step 3: Sear for Flavor and Color

Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon or two of olive oil, waiting until it shimmers before adding the tenderloin. Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes on each side, ensuring a rich, golden-brown crust forms. This step is critical, as it lays the foundation for deep and complex flavors.

Step 4: Prepare Slow Cooker Base

Once the beef is seared, pour 1 cup of beef broth into the bottom of your slow cooker. This broth not only helps prevent the meat from drying out but also becomes part of the delectable sauce that accompanies your meal.

Step 5: Transfer to Slow Cooker

With care, transfer the beautifully seared tenderloin into the slow cooker, placing it right into the broth.

Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and opt for either low heat for 2.5 to 3.5 hours or high heat for 1.5 to 2.5 hours. To ensure you achieve your desired level of doneness, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare or 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium. Note that overcooking can diminish the tenderloin’s natural juiciness, so keep an eye on it!

Step 7: Rest the Tenderloin

When your beef reaches the perfect temperature, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and allow it to rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This step is essential for keeping the meat juicy and tender, allowing the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Step 8: Prepare the Sauce Base

While the beef is resting, pour the cooking liquid from the slow cooker through a fine-mesh sieve into a medium saucepan. Discard any solid bits remaining and skim off any fat that rises to the surface.

Step 9: Build the Creamy Dijon and Herb Sauce

Set the saucepan with the strained cooking liquid over medium heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the saucepan, then whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour to form a roux. Gradually add the strained cooking liquid along with 1/4 cup of chicken or vegetable broth (this is a great non-alcoholic substitute for white wine) and bring it to a gentle simmer. Whisk continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.

Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, whisking until smooth and heated through.

Step 10: Finish the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and mix in 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme (chopped) and 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley (chopped). Season the sauce with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t forget to taste it yourself and adjust the seasoning to perfection.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

After resting, use a sharp knife to slice the tenderloin against the grain into about ½-inch thick medallions. Arrange the sliced beef tenderloin on a warm serving platter and generously spoon the warm Creamy Dijon and Herb Sauce over the beef. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, and your meal is ready!

Storing Leftover Slow Cooker Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin

To keep your leftover beef tenderloin fresh and delicious for as long as possible, follow these simple storage guidelines:

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at 40°F (4°C).
For longer storage, freeze the cooked beef tenderloin for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn.
When reheating, you can either microwave the beef or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Always make sure to reheat in small portions to ensure even heating and prevent drying out.

Serving Ideas for Slow Cooker Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin

When it comes to serving your Slow Cooker Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin, the options are endless. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Pair with Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts complement the rich flavors of the beef.
Mashed Potatoes or Creamy Polenta: Creamy mashed potatoes or silky smooth polenta can be the perfect side to absorb the delectable sauce.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tenderloin.
Rustic Bread: Don’t forget some crusty artisan bread on the side for dipping into that creamy Dijon sauce.
Wine Pairing: For a complete dining experience, consider serving a full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, that pairs beautifully with beef.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin

Tip You Shouldn’t Skip: Ensure the tenderloin is well-trimmed and dried before applying the herb rub to achieve the best crust.
Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, try substituting dried herbs for fresh ones. Fresh herbs such as thyme and parsley add a higher flavor profile.
Don’t Rush the Searing: Searing the meat is crucial to build flavors. Avoid the temptation to skip this step.
Monitor Temperature: Since beef tenderloin is very lean, precise cooking times and temperatures are key to achieving the perfect doneness without drying it out.

Variations or Substitutions

If you want to switch things up, consider the following variations or substitutions to personalize your dish:

Herb Mix Alternatives: If you prefer a different herb profile, feel free to swap out the rosemary and sage for other herbs like tarragon or oregano. Each will bring a unique twist to your dish.
Mustard Substitutes: Instead of Dijon mustard, you could use whole grain mustard for a chunkier texture or even spicy brown mustard for an extra kick.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare and season the beef tenderloin the night before, refrigerating it overnight in the herb rub for even more intense flavor.

Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A: While beef tenderloin is ideal, you could use chicken thighs. However, ensure to adjust cooking times as chicken requires a different approach.

Q: How do I make this recipe spicier?
A: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the herb rub. Alternatively, incorporate some hot mustard into the sauce for a fiery touch.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?

Roasted potatoes
A fresh mixed greens salad
Steam-braised green beans

Q: Can I cook this on high heat?
A: Yes, you can cook on high for 1.5 to 2.5 hours. However, we recommend cooking on low for the best results regarding tenderness.

This Slow Cooker Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Dijon and Herb Sauce is not just a dish; it’s an experience of flavor and comfort, reminiscent of cozy family dinners or elegant gatherings. Enjoy every savory slice, along with the delightful sauce that brings it all together. Bon appétit!