Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

As the holiday season approaches, families often seek out special recipes that can create festive moments around the dinner table. One standout dish that combines elegance and deliciousness is the Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin. Its tender, juicy interior filled with a decadent spinach and cream cheese mixture makes it a perfect centerpiece for any holiday gathering. Your friends and family will be raving about this dish long after the last slice is served, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Why Make This Recipe

Impress your guests with a stunning dish that looks as spectacular as it tastes.
Packed with flavor and nutrients, this recipe combines lean beef with vibrant spinach and cheese.
It’s surprisingly simple to make, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the holiday festivities with loved ones.

How to Make Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

Preparing a Christmas feast doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With just a few steps, you can create a delicious stuffed beef tenderloin that will have everyone asking for seconds. Follow this simple guide to create your holiday masterpiece.

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step ensures that the beef will cook perfectly, resulting in a tender and juicy dish.
Sauté the Garlic and Spinach: In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then, add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. This process releases the spinach’s vibrant flavor, which will complement the beef beautifully.
Prepare the Stuffing Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach with cream cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and freshly chopped herbs. Mixing these ingredients creates a creamy stuffing that will make your beef tenderloin sing with flavor.
Create a Pocket in the Beef: Carefully cut a pocket into the beef tenderloin, ensuring not to cut through to the other side. This is where you will lovingly stuff in your flavorful mixture. Take your time so that the stuffing holds well during cooking.
Stuff the Tenderloin: Generously fill the pocket you created with the spinach and cream cheese mixture. Ensure it’s packed in well for maximum flavor in every bite.
Season the Outside: Season the exterior of the tenderloin with salt and pepper. This enhances the overall taste and helps create a beautiful crust while cooking.
Sear the Beef: In the same skillet, add olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed tenderloin on all sides until it’s beautifully browned. This process locks in moisture and creates an enticing aroma in your kitchen.
Bake to Perfection: Transfer the seared tenderloin to a baking dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the beef reaches your desired level of doneness. A meat thermometer can help you achieve the perfect medium-rare result at around 135°F (57°C).
Rest and Slice: Once cooked, allow the beef to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is succulent and juicy.
Serve and Celebrate: Plate your beautifully sliced beef tenderloin and enjoy! The combination of flavors and textures will surely make it a highlight of your holiday meals.

Best Way to Store Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

Storing leftover beef tenderloin properly is essential to maintain its flavor and freshness. Here are some helpful tips on how to keep your leftover stuffed beef tenderloin at its best:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. It will last 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C).
Freeze for Later: If you need to store it longer, you can freeze the beef tenderloin for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s wrapped well or placed in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheat Carefully: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat in the oven at a low temperature to prevent drying out or use a microwave with a cover to retain moisture.

Serving Suggestions for Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

When it comes to serving your Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin, the options are endless! Here are a few ideas for sides and accompaniments that can elevate your meal:

Festive Sides: Pair this stunning tenderloin with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or honey-glazed carrots. The earthy flavors of these sides will complement the rich taste of the beef.
Fresh Salads: A crisp winter salad with arugula, pomegranate seeds, and a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to your dinner plate.
Decadent Sauces: Consider serving your stuffed tenderloin with a red wine reduction or a creamy mushroom sauce to enhance its flavors further.
Wine Pairing: A bold red wine such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot is an excellent choice to pair with your tenderloin, enhancing the overall experience of this festive meal.

Tips to Make Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

Here are some quick tips to ensure your Christmas cooking experience goes smoothly:

Be Careful with Seasoning: Be moderate with salt while stuffing; remember the cream cheese and breadcrumbs also contribute saltiness.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To achieve the perfect doneness, invest in a meat thermometer. This can help prevent overcooking.
Choose Quality Beef: The tenderness of the beef can make a big difference in flavor; aim for high-quality beef tenderloin.
Experiment with Stuffing: Feel free to personalize the stuffing—add nuts, dried fruits, or different herbs to find your favorite combination.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize your Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin, consider these variations:

Different Greens: Instead of spinach, you could use Swiss chard or kale for a different taste profile. The slight bitterness of these greens can add character to the dish.
Alternative Dairy: If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap cream cheese for ricotta. It will give a different texture while still providing creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tenderloin a day in advance. Just refrigerate it after stuffing and searing, and bake before serving.

Q: Can I use pork tenderloin instead of beef?
Absolutely! Just adjust cooking times as pork tenderloin may cook quicker than beef.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
For those who enjoy a little heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the stuffing or incorporate jalapeños for an extra kick.

Q: Is there a way to ensure the beef stays moist?
Adding a layer of bacon on top of the tenderloin can help keep it moist and infuse additional flavors as it cooks.

With its delightful blend of flavors, the Quick Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin is sure to be a holiday hit. This dish embodies the spirit of Christmas: shared warmth, rich flavors, and heartfelt moments. Take time to gather around the table and enjoy this culinary delight, creating lasting memories with every bite. Enjoy this recipe, and may your holiday season be filled with joy, laughter, and great food!