As the sun dipped below the horizon and the evening’s tranquility set in, the kitchen filled with a rich, warming aroma that instantly transported me to a cozy, rustic Italian bistro. I had a craving for something special, and that’s when I decided to whip up a Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes, a dish that beautifully melds elegance and comfort in one plate. The tantalizing scent of garlic and thyme mingling with the unctuous Marsala sauce was enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
With the busy week finally behind me, I wanted to create a meal that felt indulgent yet achievable for a home cook like me—something that could impress while still feeling familial. The juicy, tender beef paired with crispy, cheesy smashed potatoes is guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters, making it the perfect centerpiece for a family dinner or gathering with friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone who appreciates the magic of homemade food, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. So, let’s dive into this delicious adventure and transform your evening into something memorable!
Why Love This Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes?
Simple preparation: This dish offers a straightforward approach—perfect for any home cook looking to impress without the hassle.
Decadent flavors: The rich Marsala sauce paired with tender beef creates a dining experience that feels luxurious.
Crispy perfection: Those smashed potatoes? They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, seasoned to perfection with parmesan.
Crowd favorite: Everyone loves a hearty meal, and this dish guarantees smiles around the table.
Versatile serving: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, it’s sure to please all palates.
Make-ahead option: Prep the ingredients ahead of time for a seamless cooking experience, allowing you to focus on your loved ones.
Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes Ingredients
For the Beef Tenderloin
- Beef tenderloin – a beautifully tender cut of meat that is perfect for roasting.
- Salt and crushed black pepper – helps to enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
- Dijon mustard – adds a tangy depth to the marinade.
- Worcestershire sauce – brings umami richness and complexity.
- Melted salted butter – keeps the beef moist while providing a rich flavor.
- Chopped fresh thyme – infuses the dish with aromatic herbal notes.
- Chopped garlic – gives a fragrant kick that complements the beef perfectly.
For the Smashed Potatoes
- Baby potatoes – choose small ones for easy smashing and even cooking.
- Salted butter – enhances the flavor while making the potatoes creamy.
- Grated parmesan – introduces a nutty, savory richness that pairs wonderfully with crispy potatoes.
For the Marsala Sauce
- Sliced cremini mushrooms – offer a meaty texture and earthy flavor in the sauce.
- Chopped garlic – brings vibrant flavor to the sauce.
- Chopped fresh thyme – mirrors the herb used for the beef, tying the dish together.
- Marsala wine – adds depth and sweetness to the sauce, essential for the overall flavor.
- Heavy cream – creates a luscious sauce that envelops the meat and potatoes.
Remember, using quality ingredients will elevate your Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes experience!
How to Make Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes
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Prepare the Beef: Allow the beef tenderloin to come to room temperature for at least 1 hour. This step ensures even cooking, so don’t skip it! Preheat your oven to a steamy 475°F to achieve that perfect roast.
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Arrange Ingredients: On a large sheet pan or roasting pan, arrange the halved baby potatoes around the center, creating a cozy nest for the beef. If you have a roasting rack, use it to elevate the beef for the best heat circulation.
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Mix and Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chopped thyme, and garlic. Pour this fragrant marinade evenly over the beef, and season generously with salt and pepper. Insert a meat thermometer to track its progress.
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Roast to Perfection: Roast the beef until it reaches an internal temperature of 120°F to 125°F for medium-rare, which will take about 25-40 minutes based on your roast size. Keep an eye on that thermometer!
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Sauté the Mushrooms: In a skillet on medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter and add the sliced cremini mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown, then stir in garlic, thyme, and seasoning, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in 1/4 cup of marsala wine, letting the mushrooms caramelize, then add the remaining wine and heavy cream. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently, about 5-7 minutes.
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Rest the Beef: Once the beef reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the oven. Place it on a serving plate covered with foil, allowing it to rest for 10 minutes. This locks in those delicious juices!
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Finish the Potatoes: Toss the roasted potatoes in the butter from the pan. Smash each potato with the back of a fork for a rustic feel, then sprinkle with grated parmesan. Roast for an additional 10 minutes until crispy and glorious!
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Serve with Love: Slice the beef, serve it hot with the creamy mushroom sauce drizzled generously over the top, alongside those crispy smashed potatoes.
Optional: Garnish with additional thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists to make this dish uniquely yours!
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Herb-Infused: Add a mix of rosemary and sage in place of thyme for a fragrant update that elevates the flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the mushroom sauce for a subtle heat that complements the richness beautifully.
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Wine Swap: Substitute the marsala with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon for a more intense sauce flavor that pairs perfectly with beef.
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Creamy Twist: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce option that still maintains a comforting creaminess.
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Mushroom Medley: Experiment with a mix of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to bring diverse textures and earthy flavors to your sauce.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with a hearty portobello mushroom cap or a well-marinated cauliflower steak for a vegetarian-friendly rendition.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese to the mushroom sauce for a tangy twist that adds depth and a gourmet touch.
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Pesto Flavor: Fold in a few tablespoons of basil pesto to the cream sauce just before serving, adding a fresh herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners a breeze! You can marinate the beef in the butter, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those flavors to develop beautifully. Additionally, the smashed potatoes can be prepped by halving and refrigerating the baby potatoes (just keep them submerged in water to prevent browning) for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast the beef as directed and toss the potatoes in butter before smashing and finishing them in the oven, ensuring they’ll be just as delicious and crispy as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Beef Tenderloin with Marsala Sauce?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing your sumptuous roast with delightful sides that complement its rich flavors.
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: This dish brings a crunchy texture and bright flavor, enhancing the beef’s richness while adding a seasonal touch.
- Creamy Polenta: Silky smooth and subtly flavored, polenta serves as a comforting base that perfectly contrasts with the hearty Marsala sauce.
- Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery notes of arugula, tossed with a light vinaigrette, provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the tenderloin.
- Steamed Green Beans: Vibrant and slightly sweet, green beans offer a crisp bite that adds a lovely color and crunch to your plate.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon harmonizes with the robust flavors of the beef while enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with a decadent, warm dessert that contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of the dish.
With these delicious companions, your Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes will surely impress!
How to Store and Freeze Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the beef is completely cooled before sealing to maintain its tenderness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the Beef Tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. This preserves flavor and texture.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes for the beef. For smashed potatoes, re-crisp in the oven for 10 minutes to regain their crunch.
Thawing: Always thaw the frozen beef in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best results. This ensures that your Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes remains delicious!
Expert Tips for Beef Tenderloin Roast
Resting Time Matters: Let the beef rest covered for at least 10 minutes after roasting. This crucial step ensures the juices redistribute, making your beef tender and juicy.
Watch the Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness. Aim for 120°F to 125°F for a perfect medium-rare Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes.
Crispy Potatoes Trick: For extra crispy smashed potatoes, ensure they are well-coated in the melted butter and return them to the oven until golden brown.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning the beef and potatoes. Proper seasoning enhances flavors and prevents blandness.
Mushroom Sauce Customization: Feel free to add other herbs or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the Marsala sauce for a unique twist.
Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing your baby potatoes, look for those that are firm and free from dark spots or blemishes. For the beef tenderloin, opt for a cut that is bright red, with minimal fat. Fresh thyme should be vibrant and aromatic, while the cremini mushrooms should be smooth and plump. Avoid mushrooms that are slimy or overly dark.
How should I store leftovers of the Beef Tenderloin Roast with Smashed Potatoes?
Very good question! Store any leftover beef tenderloin and smashed potatoes in separate airtight containers in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Ensure the beef is completely cooled before sealing, as this helps maintain its juicy texture.
Can I freeze leftovers, and how do I do it properly?
Absolutely! To freeze your Beef Tenderloin Roast, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. For the smashed potatoes, place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw the beef overnight in the refrigerator, and warm in the oven. For the potatoes, pop them back in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
What should I do if my sauce doesn’t thicken as expected?
No worries, this can happen! If your Marsala sauce isn’t thickening, increase the heat slightly and let it simmer a bit longer, stirring occasionally. If you’re still having trouble, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry and then slowly whisk it into the sauce. Keep simmering until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This dish contains dairy and gluten, mainly from the butter, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. If you or your guests have allergies or dietary restrictions, consider using dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Very much! While tenderloin is a luxurious choice, you can substitute with ribeye or sirloin for a more budget-friendly option. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on that meat thermometer to ensure you achieve your desired doneness.
Savory Beef Tenderloin Roast with Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Allow the beef tenderloin to come to room temperature for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F.
- On a large sheet pan, arrange halved baby potatoes around the center.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chopped thyme, and garlic. Pour marinade over the beef.
- Season beef with salt and pepper and insert a meat thermometer.
- Roast the beef until internal temperature reaches 120°F to 125°F for medium-rare (about 25-40 minutes).
- In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter and sauté sliced mushrooms for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Add garlic, thyme, and seasoning, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in 1/4 cup of Marsala wine and let mushrooms caramelize, then add remaining wine and heavy cream. Simmer until sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Once beef reaches desired doneness, let rest covered for 10 minutes before serving.
- Toss roasted potatoes in the butter from the pan, smash with a fork, and sprinkle with grated parmesan. Roast for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve the sliced beef hot with the creamy mushroom sauce drizzled on top, alongside crispy smashed potatoes.