This Rosemary Beef Tenderloin with Wild Mushroom Cream Sauce is an elegant holiday meal that’s perfect for impressing your family and friends. The tender beef steaks are infused with rosemary and garlic, then served with a creamy, parmesan-infused wild mushroom sauce. Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for special occasions like Christmas Eve dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Beef Tenderloin:

1 (4-5 pound) beef tenderloin, cut into 6 steaks (or 6 filet mignon, tied)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh chopped rosemary
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Kosher salt and black pepper

For the Mushroom Cream Sauce:

2 tablespoons salted butter
2 shallots, thinly sliced
12 ounces wild mushrooms, torn
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Kosher salt and black pepper
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

Prepare the Oven and Season the Steaks
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Rub the steaks with rosemary and garlic. Season each side with salt and pepper.
Sear the Steaks
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. When the oil shimmers, sear each steak for about 2 minutes on each side. Transfer the steaks to a baking sheet and place in the oven. Roast until a meat thermometer reads 120–125°F for medium-rare, about 8–12 minutes. Remove from the oven, cover tightly with foil, and rest for 10 minutes.
Prepare the Mushroom Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add shallots and mushrooms, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 5 minutes or until golden, then stir and cook until caramelized, about 3–5 minutes. Remove mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
Finish the Sauce
Add wine to the skillet, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until reduced by one-third. Stir in the cream and Dijon mustard. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Return mushrooms to the sauce.
Serve
Plate the steaks, sprinkle with flaky salt, and pour the mushroom cream sauce over the top. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 504 kcal
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

This dish pairs well with crispy potato stacks and a fresh salad for a complete holiday meal. Perfect for celebrations, it brings together rich, creamy flavors with tender, perfectly cooked beef.

The Appeal of Beef Tenderloin as a Main Dish

Beef tenderloin, also known as filet mignon when cut into steaks, is a prized cut of meat renowned for its tenderness and rich flavor. This cut, which comes from the cow’s loin, contains minimal connective tissue, resulting in a buttery texture that melts in your mouth. Its luxurious quality makes it a popular choice for celebratory meals and occasions when you want to impress.

The key to maximizing the flavor of beef tenderloin is proper seasoning and cooking techniques. The combination of rosemary and garlic in this recipe complements the natural richness of the beef without overpowering it, while the quick sear locks in juices to ensure every bite is succulent and flavorful.

The Star Ingredient: Wild Mushrooms

Wild mushrooms play a central role in elevating this dish to gourmet status. Unlike standard white mushrooms, wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, shiitakes, or creminis bring a deeper, earthier flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Their caramelized edges, achieved through careful cooking, add complexity to the dish.

Mushrooms also serve as a bridge between the savory beef and the creamy sauce. Their umami notes enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile, while their tender texture contrasts nicely with the steak’s firm bite.

The Secret to the Perfect Mushroom Cream Sauce

The wild mushroom cream sauce is what transforms this recipe from delicious to unforgettable. It begins with caramelized shallots and mushrooms, which form the base of the sauce. A splash of dry white wine adds acidity and depth, helping to balance the richness of the cream. Dijon mustard contributes a subtle tang, while Parmesan cheese lends a savory, nutty quality.

The sauce’s versatility is another highlight. While it’s the perfect accompaniment for beef tenderloin, it could just as easily be paired with chicken, pork, or even a vegetarian main like roasted portobello mushrooms.

Tips for Perfect Execution

Selecting the Right Cut
Opt for high-quality beef tenderloin or filet mignon for the best results. Ask your butcher to trim the tenderloin and tie the steaks if needed for even cooking.
Seasoning and Preparation
Don’t skimp on seasoning! The rosemary and garlic rub is key to infusing the steaks with flavor. Ensure the steaks are at room temperature before cooking to promote even searing.
Searing the Steaks
Achieving a golden-brown crust is crucial for locking in the juices and enhancing the steak’s natural flavors. Use a hot skillet and avoid overcrowding to ensure a perfect sear.
Temperature Precision
For medium-rare perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Pull the steaks from the oven at 120–125°F, as they will continue to cook while resting.
Making the Sauce
Deglazing the pan with wine after cooking the mushrooms is essential to incorporate all the flavorful browned bits. Simmering the cream gently ensures the sauce thickens without curdling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the steaks immediately after plating to enjoy them at their peak. Pair with side dishes like roasted potatoes, asparagus, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for the Holidays

Holidays call for dishes that not only taste amazing but also look stunning on the table. Rosemary Beef Tenderloin with Wild Mushroom Cream Sauce checks both boxes. The rosemary garnish adds a festive touch, while the creamy sauce feels indulgent and celebratory.

Moreover, the dish’s quick preparation time is a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. You can impress your guests with minimal effort, leaving more time to enjoy the company of family and friends.

Health and Nutritional Benefits

While indulgent, this dish offers several nutritional benefits. Beef tenderloin is an excellent source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Wild mushrooms contribute antioxidants, fiber, and umami flavors without adding unnecessary calories. The cream sauce, when enjoyed in moderation, adds satisfying richness that makes the meal feel complete.

For those looking to lighten the dish, substitutions like using milk instead of cream or reducing the amount of butter can still yield a delicious result without sacrificing too much flavor.

Conclusion

Rosemary Beef Tenderloin with Wild Mushroom Cream Sauce is the epitome of elegant dining. Its combination of tender, perfectly cooked beef and a luxurious, flavorful sauce ensures it’s a recipe that will impress every time. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a gourmet meal at home, this dish delivers on every level. With its harmonious flavors, simple preparation, and visually stunning presentation, it’s destined to become a go-to favorite for years to come.

Serve it with your favorite sides, a glass of wine, and good company for a meal that’s as memorable as it is delicious.