How to Cook Perfect Beef Tenderloin in an Electric Roaster

Beef tenderloin is a tender flavorful cut of meat that’s ideal for special occasions and holidays. While often roasted in the oven using an electric roaster is an excellent option for cooking beef tenderloin to juicy, tender perfection.

Electric roasters provide even consistent heat and make it easy to cook multiple tenderloins at once for a crowd. With a few tips, you can make restaurant-quality beef tenderloin easily at home in your electric roaster.

Benefits of Using an Electric Roaster

Electric roasters have many advantages for cooking beef tenderloin

• Large capacity fits multiple roasts to feed a crowd

• Consistent, even heating surrounds meat

• Allows monitoring and basting meat easily

• Portable to move the cooked meat straight to the table

• Saves oven space for sides dishes

• Keeps meat warm until ready to serve

• Simple cleanup with removable pan

While not necessarily quicker than oven roasting, electric roasters produce delicious results you can count on every time.

Tips for Cooking Tenderloin in an Electric Roaster

Follow these tips for perfect electric roaster beef tenderloin:

• Use a meat thermometer – This is essential for determining when the tenderloin reaches the ideal internal temperature. Test in a few spots to account for uneven cooking.

• Preheat properly – Heat the roaster with the lid on for at least 15 minutes at 325°F before adding the tenderloin.

• Dry meat well – Pat the tenderloin very dry before seasoning so spices stick properly.

• Sear first – Browning the meat in a pan builds flavor. Do this just before transferring to the preheated roaster.

• Roast uncovered – Cooking uncovered allows moisture to evaporate for a nice browned exterior.

• Flip halfway – Turning the meat halfway through roasting cooks it evenly.

• Baste with juices – Use juices in bottom of roaster to keep the meat moist. Tilt to pool drippings and spoon over top.

• Let rest 10 minutes – This allows juices to redistribute before slicing for maximum tenderness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow this simple process for tender, juicy electric roaster beef tenderloin:

1. Trim and tie: Remove silverskin and excess fat from the tenderloin. Tie with butcher’s twine at 1-2 inch intervals to maintain even shape and thickness.

2. Season: Generously season all over with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs. Crushed garlic, rosemary, thyme, and mustard work well.

3. Sear: Heat oil in a skillet over high heat. Brown tenderloin on all sides, about 2 minutes per side.

4. Preheat roaster: Heat empty roaster with lid on for 15 minutes at 325°F.

5. Roast: Place seared tenderloin in preheated roaster, uncovered. Cook 15-25 minutes until it reaches 125°F (for medium rare).

6. Rest: Remove tenderloin to a cutting board and tent with foil. Let rest 10-15 minutes before slicing to serve.

Use a meat thermometer to gauge doneness, not time. Thickness of the tenderloin affects cooking time. For food safety, cook beef to a minimum of 145°F.

Electric Roaster Tenderloin Pairings

Serve roasted tenderloin with these perfect pairings:

• Sauces – Béarnaise, red wine reduction, peppercorn, horseradish cream

• Sides – Scalloped potatoes, roasted asparagus, creamed spinach, glazed carrots

• Breads – Dinner rolls, focaccia, cornbread, buttermilk biscuits

• Wine – Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec

Expert Tips for Moist, Tender Meat

Beyond using an electric roaster, employ these expert tips for the most succulent roasted beef tenderloin:

• Choose a thick, center-cut tenderloin for best texture

• Season 1-2 days in advance and refrigerate uncovered to dry out the exterior

• Allow meat to come to room temp before cooking for even cooking

• Render excess fat by searing before roasting

• Brush with softened butter after cooking for added moisture and flavor

• Always let rest 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to reabsorb

• Use a sharp knife to slice across the grain for tenderest bites

• Don’t overcook! Medium rare tenderloin is the most indulgent

Common Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about electric roaster beef tenderloin:

What temperature should I roast the tenderloin at?

325°F is ideal for even cooking without drying out the meat. Do not exceed 350°F.

How long does it take to roast tenderloin in an electric roaster?

Plan on 15-25 minutes for a 3-5 pound tenderloin to reach 125°F at 325°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I cook multiple tenderloins in the electric roaster?

Yes, an electric roaster has capacity to cook several tenderloins at once. Leave space around each one and add a few extra minutes to the roasting time.

Should tenderloin be roasted uncovered or covered?

Roasting uncovered is best as it allows moisture to evaporate and the exterior to get nicely browned.

Do I need to baste the tenderloin while roasting?

Basting helps keep the meat juicy. Tilt the roaster to pool the juices and spoon them over the roast every 10 minutes or so.

What temperature should I cook the tenderloin to?

For medium rare, cook to 125°F and allow the temperature to rise another 5-10°F during resting. For food safety, cook roasts to at least 145°F.

The Perfect Main Course

Beef tenderloin is a lean, tender cut that makes the ultimate special occasion centerpiece. By following these tips for using an electric roaster, you can achieve perfect results – juicy, evenly cooked meat with a flavorful crust.

Serve carved tenderloin with a selection of decadent sauces, sides and wines for a holiday or dinner party sure to impress. Leftovers make amazing sandwiches so you can enjoy this roast twice!