Simple Beef Tenderloin Steak

Simple Beef Tenderloin Steak is a medium American recipe that serves 2. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Kun Foods on YouTube.

Prep: 28 min | Cook: 14 min | Total: 52 min

Cost: $12.85 total, $6.43 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 piece Beef Tenderloin Steak (about 1.5‑2 inches thick, ~8 oz, trimmed of silver skin)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra virgin, for light coating before seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (coarsely ground)
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (freshly ground)
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (high smoke‑point oil for searing)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 sprig Fresh Rosemary (optional, adds aroma)

Instructions

  1. Trim and Tie the Tenderloin

    Place the beef tenderloin on a clean board. Using a sharp knife, remove the silvery‑white membrane (silver skin) and any excess fat. Then, with butcher's twine, tie the steak tightly around its middle to create a uniform, cylindrical shape about 1‑inch thick.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Season the Steak

    Pat the steak dry, brush both sides with olive oil, then sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt evenly over the surface. Let the seasoning sit briefly.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Bring to Room Temperature

    Place the seasoned steak on a plate and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This ensures even cooking.

    Time: PT15M

  4. Preheat the Skillet

    Put the cast‑iron skillet on high heat. Add 2 Tbsp vegetable oil and wait until the oil just begins to smoke.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: high

  5. Sear Both Sides

    Lay the steak gently into the skillet. Sear for 1½–2 minutes without moving, then flip and sear the other side for the same time until a deep brown crust forms.

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: high

  6. Add Butter, Garlic & Herbs

    Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 Tbsp butter, minced garlic, and the rosemary sprig. Spoon the melted butter over the steak continuously for about 3 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches roughly 50 °C (122 °F).

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: medium

  7. Rest the Steak

    Transfer the steak to a clean plate and loosely cover with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes; the temperature will climb to the target 57 °C (135 °F) for medium‑rare.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
30g
Carbohydrates
0g
Fat
22g
Fiber
0g

Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Keto, Paleo

Allergens: Dairy, Garlic

Last updated: April 7, 2026

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Simple Beef Tenderloin Steak

Recipe by Kun Foods

A step‑by‑step guide to preparing a perfectly seasoned, medium‑rare beef tenderloin steak using a cast‑iron skillet. Includes tips on trimming, tying, seasoning, and achieving a flavorful crust with garlic‑butter and rosemary.

MediumAmericanServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
27m
Prep
15m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
52m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$12.85
Total cost
$6.43
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Removing the silver skin
  • Tying the steak to maintain uniform thickness
  • Achieving a proper high‑heat sear
  • Monitoring internal temperature with a thermometer

Safety Warnings

  • The cast‑iron skillet becomes extremely hot; use oven mitts and tongs.
  • Handle raw beef with clean hands and sanitize surfaces to avoid cross‑contamination.
  • Use a calibrated meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of beef steak in Pakistani cuisine?

A

While steak is not a traditional Pakistani dish, it has become popular in urban areas as a symbol of modern, upscale dining. Influences from British colonial times and global food trends introduced premium cuts like tenderloin, which are now enjoyed in high‑end restaurants and home celebrations.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of steak in American cuisine?

A

In the United States, steak varies by region: the Midwest favors ribeye with a heavy char, the West Coast embraces grass‑fed cuts with simple salt‑pepper seasoning, and the South often serves steak with compound butter or Cajun rubs. Each style reflects local beef production and flavor preferences.

cultural
Q

How is a perfectly cooked medium‑rare steak traditionally served in American steakhouse culture?

A

A classic American steakhouse serves a medium‑rare steak on a warm plate, often accompanied by a pat of herb‑butter, a side of creamed spinach or mashed potatoes, and a simple garnish of fresh herbs. The steak is sliced on the board only if requested, preserving its juices.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is steak traditionally associated with in Western cuisine?

A

Steak is commonly featured at celebratory meals such as birthdays, anniversaries, and holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving or New Year’s Eve. Its premium status makes it a centerpiece for special occasions and business dinners.

cultural
Q

What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for a classic steak versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional steak seasoning relies on high‑quality beef, coarse sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a finishing butter. Acceptable substitutes include using clarified butter or ghee for higher smoke points, and herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of rosemary alone.

cultural
Q

What other American side dishes pair well with this simple beef tenderloin steak?

A

Great pairings include garlic‑roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, a crisp Caesar salad, or a creamy mushroom sauce. The simple seasoning of the steak lets robust sides shine without overwhelming the meat’s flavor.

cultural
Q

How has the preparation of steak evolved over time in Western culinary tradition?

A

Early steak preparation focused on simple salt‑pepper seasoning and open‑fire grilling. Modern techniques emphasize precise temperature control, sous‑vide pre‑cooking, and finishing with high‑heat searing in cast iron, as demonstrated in this recipe.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this simple beef tenderloin steak?

A

Common errors include over‑seasoning, not removing the silver skin, cooking at too low a temperature which prevents a crust, and neglecting to use a meat thermometer, leading to overcooked or undercooked meat.

technical
Q

Why does this steak recipe use a cast‑iron skillet instead of a grill or oven broiler?

A

A cast‑iron skillet provides even, intense heat that creates a uniform crust while allowing precise control of temperature for the interior. It also makes it easy to baste with butter and aromatics, which is harder to achieve on a grill.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Kun Foods specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Kun Foods focuses on practical home‑cooking tutorials for South Asian and international dishes, emphasizing clear technique explanations, ingredient sourcing tips, and culturally respectful adaptations.

channel

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