How to Reheat Beef Tenderloin Perfectly – 3 Simple Methods

Beef tenderloin is a premium cut of beef valued for its tenderness and subtle flavor. It’s often reserved for special occasions and holidays since it’s on the pricier side. Luckily, leftover roasted beef tenderloin makes for fabulous next-day meals. Reheating this tender cut requires some finesse though. With the right techniques, you can revive leftover beef tenderloin so it regains its juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Follow these simple methods for reheating beef tenderloin in the oven, on the stovetop or in the microwave. With a little care those leftovers will taste as succulent as the night you originally cooked them.

Oven Reheating Method

The oven allows for very gentle, even reheating that warms the beef through without overcooking it. Here’s how to do it:

• Preheat oven to 200°F This low temperature prevents the tender meat from becoming tough

• Place reheating rack over sheet pan. This elevates the meat for better heat circulation.

• Set leftover beef tenderloin on the rack. Cover pan with foil to lock in moisture.

• Heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed to 125°F for medium-rare doneness. Check internal temp with a meat thermometer.

• Rest 3-5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

• Add pan drippings or au jus for extra moisture and flavor.

• Slice against the grain and serve immediately.

The oven yields reheated beef tenderloin that looks as gorgeous and tastes as succulent as the first time around.

Stovetop Skillet Method

For quicker reheating, use this stovetop skillet technique:

• Pat beef dry with paper towels. Excess moisture causes splattering.

• Heat skillet over medium-low heat. Add 1 tsp oil or butter.

• Place tenderloin in the skillet. Turn occasionally as it reheats, about 8-10 minutes.

• Watch it closely to prevent overcooking on the stove’s direct heat.

• Once heated through, rest 3 minutes before slicing.

• Make a quick sauce with pan drippings, red wine and broth to serve with the meat.

The skillet gives beef tenderloin a light sear while gently bringing it up to temperature. Keep the heat low and monitor it to avoid overcooking.

Microwave Reheating Method

To quickly reheat a single portion, the microwave works in a pinch:

• Place beef tenderloin slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

• Microwave at 50% power for 1-2 minutes until warmed through but not hot.

• Allow to rest 1 minute before eating. The paper towel keeps moisture in.

• Take care not to overcook. Microwaves heat very intensely.

• Add a spoonful of au jus, demi-glace or sauce for extra moisture.

While not ideal, the microwave can reheat a single beef tenderloin serving decently. Just be very careful not to overdo it. Lower power and short cooking times are key.

Handy Tips for Reheating Success

Follow these useful tips for reheating beef tenderloin without drying it out:

• Always let beef tenderloin rest after reheating before slicing or eating. This allows juices to redistribute so meat stays moist.

• Add a spoonful of pan juices, au jus, demi-glace or sauce to the meat while reheating for extra moisture and flavor.

• Use lower power levels in the microwave to prevent intense heat from overcooking the delicate meat.

• Preheat oven or skillet at lower temperatures (200°F or medium-low). High heat toughens the tender meat.

• Check internal temperature to avoid overcooking. Stop at 125°F for medium-rare doneness.

• Cover the meat while reheating to prevent moisture loss. Use foil for oven and paper towels for microwave.

• Avoid reheating more than once. Multiple reheatings compromise the tenderness. Eat leftovers within 3-4 days.

With the proper technique, reheated beef tenderloin can taste nearly as sublime as it did the first time around.

Common Reheating Mistakes to Avoid

When reheating leftover beef tenderloin, sidestep these common pitfalls:

• Skipping the resting period after reheating leads to dry, toughened meat. Always let it rest 3-5 minutes before slicing so juices can redistribute.

• Heating at too high of a temperature dries out the delicate meat very quickly. Always use lower oven, stovetop or microwave settings.

• Not monitoring reheating and overcooking. This ruins the tender texture. Check frequently and use a meat thermometer.

• Reheating without covering the meat leads to moisture loss. Use foil in the oven and paper towels in the microwave.

• Cutting into the meat immediately after reheating. Letting it rest allows juices to reabsorb for better flavor and tenderness.

• Adding no extra liquid while reheating can make meat dried out. Use pan juices, broth or sauce to add moisture.

With careful reheating, you can savor leftover beef tenderloin that tastes as sublime as the first meal.

Storing and Freezing Cooked Beef Tenderloin

For enjoying beef tenderloin leftovers later, proper storage is key:

• Let cooked beef tenderloin cool completely before refrigerating.

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in airtight containers. Excludes air to prevent freezer burn.

• Refrigerate for 3-4 days. Freeze for 2-3 months for maximum freshness.

• Label packages with reheating instructions and dates for easy identification.

• Portion into single servings before freezing for quick individual reheating later.

• Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating to prevent moisture loss.

Follow these tips, and your beef tenderloin will retain its delectable just-cooked quality for future meals.

Make a Meal of Those Tender Leftovers

Leftover cooked beef tenderloin is delicious in all kinds of dishes:

• Fancy sandwiches – Add slices to crusty rolls with garlic aioli, tomatoes, arugula and shaved parmesan.

• Hearty salads – Toss tender slices with fresh greens, blue cheese, roasted beets, pecans and balsamic vinaigrette.

• Rice bowls – Combine with sauteed veggies, brown rice and teriyaki or sesame sauce.

• Omelets – Dice into egg omelets with sauteed mushrooms, spinach and goat cheese.

• Pasta – Toss diced beef with farfalle, fresh basil, halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.

With a little creativity, leftover beef tenderloin makes easy weeknight meals even more delicious. Don’t let those leftovers go to waste!

So treat your tastebuds to beef tenderloin twice by reviving those leftovers with proper reheating techniques. With the oven, stovetop and microwave methods in your arsenal, you can enjoy this tender cut again in all its mouthwatering glory.