There’s something magical about the smell of garlic, rosemary, and beef roasting on Christmas Day. When I make this Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin, my kitchen feels just like Nonna’s did, cozy, joyful, and filled with the sound of laughter. The rich beef, creamy filling, and golden crust bring back memories of family gathered around a festive table. This Stuffed Beef Tenderloin recipe is more than a meal; it’s a centerpiece of love and tradition. It’s that one dish everyone waits for; tender, juicy, and utterly unforgettable.
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Why You’ll Love This Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
If you’re looking for something that impresses your guests but won’t keep you in the kitchen all day, this Christmas Beef Tenderloin is it. The tenderloin cooks beautifully, staying soft and succulent while holding a creamy, herby spinach filling. It’s elegant but approachable, a perfect blend of fine dining and home comfort.
Every slice reveals a swirl of festive flavor. The texture is melt-in-your-mouth perfect, balanced by fragrant herbs and just the right amount of cheesy indulgence. It’s the dish that turns a Christmas meal into a celebration.
Pair it with Duchess Potatoes for a buttery, elegant side that completes your holiday plate beautifully.
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Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
A juicy and elegant Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin filled with creamy spinach, garlic, and Parmesan; a show-stopping centerpiece perfect for your holiday table.
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
2 to 2.5 lbs beef tenderloin (center-cut)
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp each fresh rosemary and thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Butterfly the beef tenderloin by slicing horizontally without cutting through. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in cream cheese and Parmesan until smooth. Let it cool.
5. Spread the filling evenly over the beef and roll tightly. Secure with kitchen twine.
6. Sear all sides in olive oil until golden.
7. Transfer to oven and roast 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
8. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing into medallions and serving.
Notes
You can assemble the beef tenderloin up to a day ahead and refrigerate.
For extra flavor, brush Dijon mustard before spreading the filling.
Pair it with Duchess Potatoes or Bacon Brussels Sprouts for a perfect Christmas meal.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Ingredients
The secret to this dish’s success lies in simple, fresh ingredients that work in harmony.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Beef tenderloin (center-cut) | 2 to 2.5 lbs |
| Fresh spinach, chopped | 2 cups |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Cream cheese, softened | 4 oz |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | ½ cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh rosemary and thyme | 1 tbsp each |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
If you want an elegant sauce pairing, try this Cranberry Sauce. Its tangy sweetness perfectly complements the savory beef filling.
How to Make the Perfect Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
- Step 1: Prepare the beef. Lay your tenderloin flat and carefully butterfly it by slicing through the center horizontally without cutting all the way through. Open it like a book and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Cook the filling. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in cream cheese and Parmesan, then set aside to cool.
- Step 3: Fill and roll. Spread the cooled mixture evenly across the beef. Roll it tightly, seam side down, and tie every 2 inches with kitchen twine to hold the shape.
- Step 4: Sear and roast. Sear all sides of the tenderloin in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden. Transfer to a 425°F oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
- Step 5: Rest and serve. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing into stunning pinwheel-style medallions.
For a flawless roast alternative, check out the Beef Tenderloin Roast Recipe. It’s another timeless classic for holiday dinners.
Tips and Variations
- Flavor boost: Add a touch of Dijon mustard inside the roll before filling for extra zing.
- Cheese swap: Use Gruyère instead of Parmesan for a nuttier flavor.
- Crunch upgrade: Mix in finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling.
- Make ahead: Assemble your Stuffed Beef Tenderloin the night before and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before roasting.
- Wine pairing: A Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot enhances the richness of this dish beautifully.
If you’re preparing multiple sides, Bacon Brussels Sprouts make a perfect companion; smoky, savory, and ready in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another cut of beef?
Yes, sirloin or flank steak can work too, though tenderloin delivers the most buttery texture.
2. How can I tell when it’s perfectly cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. Always rest before slicing.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely. Slice, wrap in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven.
4. What sides go best with Christmas Beef Tenderloin?
Try Sweet Potato Souffle Casserole or Roasted Sweet Potatoes for a colorful, flavorful pairing.
Conclusion
This Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is more than just a main course, it’s a centerpiece that brings joy, warmth, and togetherness to your holiday table. Every slice is a celebration of flavor: tender beef, creamy filling, and golden edges that tell a story of care.
If you’re ready to finish your feast on a sweet note, treat your guests to Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies, the perfect festive ending after this show-stopping beef dish.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
