Leftover beef tenderloin is a treasure waiting to be transformed into delicious new meals. Whether you roasted a whole tenderloin for a special occasion or picked up a few slices from the deli, these recipes help us make the most of every bite. Instead of letting that tender, flavorful beef go to waste we can create quick and satisfying dishes that bring out its rich taste.
From hearty sandwiches to savory stir-fries and comforting pasta dishes leftover beef tenderloin adds a touch of elegance without extra effort. We’ll explore versatile recipes that turn simple ingredients into memorable meals perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into creative ways to enjoy leftover beef tenderloin and turn it into something fresh and exciting every time.
Recipes With Leftover Beef Tenderloin
Transforming leftover beef tenderloin into new, exciting dishes is easier than you might think. Let’s explore some flavor-packed recipes that showcase the tender texture and rich taste of this premium cut, ensuring no bite goes to waste.
1. Tenderloin Steak Sandwich with Horseradish Sauce
Ingredients:
- 8 oz leftover beef tenderloin, sliced thin
- 2 ciabatta rolls, halved and toasted
- 2 tbsp creamy horseradish sauce
- 1 cup arugula
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps:
- Reheat the sliced beef tenderloin gently in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes to avoid drying out.
- Spread horseradish sauce evenly on the inside of each ciabatta half.
- Layer arugula and provolone cheese on the bottom halves.
- Pile the warm beef slices over the cheese and close sandwiches.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm beef and fresh greens.
“This sandwich creatively elevates our tenderloin leftovers into a gourmet lunch or casual dinner.”
2. Beef Tenderloin Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Ingredients:
- 10 oz leftover beef tenderloin, cut into bite-sized strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Cooked jasmine rice for serving
Steps:
- Heat olive oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in bell pepper and snap peas; stir-fry for 3 minutes.
- Add beef strips and stir quickly until warmed through.
- Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey in a small bowl. Pour over stir-fry.
- Stir to coat evenly and cook for another minute.
- Garnish with green onions and serve over jasmine rice.
3. Creamy Beef Tenderloin Pasta
Ingredients:
- 12 oz cooked pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 8 oz leftover beef tenderloin, diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps:
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stir until melted and smooth.
- Fold in diced beef tenderloin and cooked pasta.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.
Nutritional Snapshot of Leftover Beef Tenderloin (per 3 oz serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 23 grams |
| Total Fat | 9 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 grams |
| Iron | 2.1 mg |
Keep in mind that incorporating our leftover beef tenderloin adds lean protein and rich flavor to any meal.
By following these simple recipes, we make the most out of every ounce of leftover beef tenderloin, turning it into quick, wholesome meals perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
To create delicious recipes with leftover beef tenderloin, we rely on a balance of fresh and pantry staples. These ingredients help us transform tenderloin into flavorful meals quickly and easily.
Common Ingredients for Leftover Beef Tenderloin Recipes
These staples work across various dishes, from sandwiches to stir-fries and pastas:
- Leftover beef tenderloin (sliced or cubed)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil (for sautéing and roasting)
- Garlic (minced)
- Onions (thinly sliced or diced)
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Butter (to enrich sauces and sautés)
- Mustard (Dijon or whole grain for sandwiches and sauces)
- Horseradish sauce (classic pairing for tenderloin sandwiches)
Additional Ingredients Depending on Recipe Type
Our choice of add-ons depends on the recipe style we want to create. Here’s a breakdown by dish:
| Dish Type | Additional Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Tenderloin Steak Sandwich | Crusty bread or baguette, arugula or lettuce, tomato slices, cheese (Swiss or provolone) |
| Beef Tenderloin Stir-Fry | Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, green onions |
| Creamy Beef Tenderloin Pasta | Pasta (fettuccine or penne), heavy cream or half-and-half, Parmesan cheese, mushrooms, white wine (optional) |
These ingredients help us build diverse meals that use our leftover beef tenderloin efficiently while keeping each dish exciting and flavorful.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To transform our leftover beef tenderloin into flavorful dishes like sandwiches, stir-fries, and creamy pasta, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Each recipe requires specific items to ensure efficiency and enhance the final taste and texture.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
Crucial for slicing the beef tenderloin thinly and evenly for sandwiches and stir-fries, allowing for quick cooking and proper texture.
- Cutting Board
A sturdy, non-slip cutting board makes prep safer and more efficient. Use a separate board for vegetables to avoid cross-contamination.
- Frying Pan or Skillet
A heavy-bottomed skillet or non-stick frying pan is perfect for sautéing vegetables and reheating beef without drying it out. For stir-fries, a wok or high-sided skillet ensures even cooking.
- Saucepan
Needed for preparing pasta and creamy sauces. A medium saucepan handles simmering tasks efficiently.
- Mixing Bowls
Useful for tossing ingredients, marinating beef slices, or combining sauce components.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Accurate seasoning and sauce ingredients balance the flavors perfectly.
- Spatula and Tongs
A heat-resistant spatula helps stir sauces gently, while tongs make flipping and tossing beef in the pan effortless.
Optional But Helpful Equipment
- Food Processor or Blender
Ideal for creating smooth horseradish sauce or creamy pasta sauces quickly.
- Colander
For draining cooked pasta effortlessly.
- Toaster or Grill Pan
Adds that perfect crunchy texture to crusty bread for sandwiches.
Summary Table: Tools by Recipe Type
| Recipe Type | Essential Tools | Optional Tools |
|---|---|---|
| Tenderloin Steak Sandwich | Chef’s knife, cutting board, skillet, toaster | Food processor, spatula |
| Beef Tenderloin Stir-Fry | Knife, cutting board, wok or skillet, tongs | None |
| Creamy Beef Tenderloin Pasta | Knife, cutting board, saucepan, colander, spatula | Blender, mixing bowls |
Recipe 1: Beef Tenderloin Stir-Fry
Transforming leftover beef tenderloin into a quick and vibrant stir-fry brings out bold flavors and a delightful texture in every bite. This recipe highlights how tender beef can blend seamlessly with crisp vegetables and a savory sauce for a meal that satisfies both taste and time.
Prep
- 8 oz leftover beef tenderloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced diagonally
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Cook
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
- Toss in sliced bell pepper, snap peas, and carrot; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Remove vegetables and set aside.
- Add remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the skillet.
- Add beef slices and season lightly with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until the beef is heated through and slightly caramelized on the edges.
- Return vegetables to the skillet and mix well.
- Pour soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the stir-fry. Stir to combine.
- Add cornstarch slurry, stir for 1 more minute until sauce thickens and evenly coats the ingredients.
Assemble and Serve
- Remove skillet from heat and sprinkle green onions on top for a burst of fresh flavor and color.
- Serve the Beef Tenderloin Stir-Fry immediately over steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a heartier meal.
- Garnish with sesame seeds or crushed red pepper flakes if desired to enhance texture and add subtle heat.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Beef tenderloin | 8 oz | Thinly sliced |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons | Divided |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Fresh ginger | 1 teaspoon | Grated |
| Red bell pepper | 1 | Julienned |
| Snap peas | 1 cup | Trimmed |
| Carrot | 1 medium | Thinly sliced |
| Green onions | 2 | Sliced diagonally |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons | Low sodium |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon | |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon | |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon | Mixed with 2 tbsp water |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
This stir-fry maximizes the rich flavors of our leftover beef tenderloin and showcases a perfect balance of tenderness and crunch.
Recipe 2: Beef Tenderloin Sandwiches
Transforming leftover beef tenderloin into delicious sandwiches is a quick and satisfying way to enjoy this tender, flavorful meat. These Beef Tenderloin Sandwiches pair rich beef with zesty horseradish sauce and fresh toppings to create a meal that’s both simple and gourmet.
Prep
- Leftover beef tenderloin – Slice into thin, even strips for easy layering and to maximize tenderness.
- Crusty sandwich rolls or baguettes – Slice horizontally, about 4-6 inches long per sandwich.
- Fresh arugula or baby spinach – Rinse and pat dry.
- Red onion – Thinly slice into rounds.
- Horseradish sauce – Combine ½ cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl; mix until smooth.
- Optional toppings – Sliced tomatoes, pickles, or Swiss cheese.
Cook
- Warm the beef by heating a skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the pan.
- Place the beef slices in the skillet, stirring gently to warm for about 2-3 minutes, just until heated through. Avoid overcooking to preserve tenderness.
- Optionally, toast sandwich rolls in the same skillet for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned for added texture and flavor.
Assemble and Serve
- Spread a generous layer of horseradish sauce on both halves of the toasted sandwich roll.
- Layer the warm, sliced beef tenderloin evenly on the bottom half.
- Add fresh arugula or baby spinach over the beef for crisp freshness.
- Place thin red onion slices and any optional toppings like tomato or cheese on top.
- Close the sandwich with the top roll and press gently.
- Cut the sandwich in half if desired, and serve immediately while warm.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Leftover beef tenderloin | 8 oz | Thinly sliced |
| Crusty sandwich rolls | 2 rolls (4-6 in each) | Sliced horizontally |
| Arugula or baby spinach | 1 cup | Washed and dried |
| Red onion | ¼ medium | Thinly sliced |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | For horseradish sauce |
| Prepared horseradish | 2 tablespoons | Mix with sour cream and mustard |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon | For horseradish sauce |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | For warming beef and toasting rolls |
| Optional toppings | As desired | Tomato, Swiss cheese, pickles |
Recipe 3: Beef Tenderloin Salad
Transform leftover beef tenderloin into a fresh and satisfying Beef Tenderloin Salad. This recipe pairs tender slices of beef with crisp greens and a zesty homemade dressing for a light yet flavorful meal.
Prep
- 8 oz leftover beef tenderloin, sliced thinly against the grain
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, and romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta (optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Tip: Keep the beef slices thin to maintain tenderness and enhance every bite.
Prepare Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Steps:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and balsamic vinegar.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking vigorously to create a smooth, emulsified dressing.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to balance the flavors.
| Dressing Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Honey/maple syrup | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic, minced | 1 small clove |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Assemble and Serve
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Drizzle half of the prepared dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Arrange the dressed salad on individual plates or a large serving platter.
- Lay the thin slices of leftover beef tenderloin gracefully over the top.
- Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese and toasted nuts if using for extra texture and flavor.
- Drizzle the remaining dressing over the beef slices.
- Finish with a crack of freshly ground black pepper.
“Using leftover beef tenderloin in a salad not only preserves its juicy texture but also elevates your greens with rich, savory flavor.”
Serve this salad immediately for maximum freshness and crunch. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a light vinaigrette sandwich for a complete meal.
Recipe 4: Beef Tenderloin Pasta
Transforming leftover beef tenderloin into a rich and creamy pasta dish brings out the full depth of its flavor. This recipe combines tender beef slices with a luscious sauce and perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal.
Prep
- 8 oz leftover beef tenderloin, sliced thinly
- 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup beef broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Tip: Slice the beef tenderloin thinly against the grain to maintain tenderness when reheated.
Cook Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 9-11 minutes.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and set aside.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Water Volume | 4-6 quarts with 1 tbsp salt |
| Pasta Type | Fettuccine or preferred |
| Cooking Time | 9-11 minutes (al dente) |
| Reserved Water | ½ cup |
Prepare Sauce
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and grated Parmesan cheese until combined and the sauce starts to thicken.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Gently fold in the sliced leftover beef tenderloin and warm for 2 minutes without overcooking.
Combine and Serve
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Cook over low heat for 1-2 minutes ensuring pasta is well coated and heated through.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan on the side.
Recipe 5: Beef Tenderloin Tacos
Transforming leftover beef tenderloin into vibrant Beef Tenderloin Tacos is an excellent way to enjoy a fresh and flavorful meal. This recipe combines tender slices of beef with bold seasonings and fresh toppings wrapped in warm tortillas for a satisfying taco experience.
Prep
To start, gather these ingredients for the vibrant taco filling and toppings:
- 8 oz leftover beef tenderloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar (optional)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Salsa or hot sauce, to taste
We start by seasoning the sliced beef with cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This simple spice mix enhances the natural flavor of the tenderloin without overpowering it.
Warm Tortillas
Warming tortillas properly is key to authentic tacos. Use either corn or flour tortillas. Here’s how to warm them:
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Skillet | Heat a dry cast-iron or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Warm tortillas 30 seconds per side. |
| Oven | Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap tortillas in foil and heat for 10 minutes. |
| Microwave | Stack tortillas on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave 30 seconds. |
We prefer the skillet method for a slight toast and improved texture. Warm tortillas are more pliable and enhance the taco’s overall mouthfeel.
Assemble and Serve
Building our Beef Tenderloin Tacos is quick and allows customization to individual tastes:
- Place 2-3 slices of the seasoned beef tenderloin onto each warm tortilla.
- Top with diced red onion, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of queso fresco.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over each taco for brightness.
- Add salsa or hot sauce as desired for heat and extra flavor.
Serve immediately while the tortillas are warm and beef tender. The combination of smoky spices juicy beef and fresh toppings creates an irresistible taco perfect for using up leftover beef tenderloin. We recommend serving with a simple side like black beans or a fresh corn salad.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips for Leftover Beef Tenderloin Recipes
Proper make-ahead and storage techniques are essential to preserve the tenderness and flavor of leftover beef tenderloin for our recipes. Here are the key steps to ensure our dishes stay fresh and delicious:
Cooling and Refrigerating Leftover Beef Tenderloin
- Allow the beef tenderloin to cool at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours after cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
- Slice or portion the beef into meal-sized amounts to speed up cooling and ease of use later.
- Wrap the beef tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
- Store the wrapped beef in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Freezing Leftover Beef Tenderloin for Longer Storage
If we plan to use the leftover beef tenderloin beyond three days, freezing is the best option:
- Wrap the beef slices individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for portion control.
- Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe zip-lock bag or vacuum-sealed bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Label each package with the date and contents for easy tracking.
- Freeze at 0°F (-18°C) or lower and consume within 2 to 3 months for optimal quality.
| Storage Method | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 40°F (4°C) or below | Up to 3 days | Use airtight containers |
| Freezing | 0°F (-18°C) or below | 2 to 3 months | Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn |
Thawing and Reheating Tips
- Thaw frozen beef tenderloin in the refrigerator overnight for the safest and most even thaw.
- Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
- Reheat gently to preserve juiciness and texture:
- Use a stovetop skillet over medium-low heat.
- Warm slices covered with foil in the oven at 275°F (135°C) until heated through.
- Avoid microwaving which can dry out the beef.
- For recipes like stir-fries or pasta, add beef tenderloin at the last step to prevent overcooking.
Make-Ahead Preparation for Leftover Beef Tenderloin Dishes
- Prepare sauces and dressings in advance and store separately to maintain freshness.
- Pre-chop vegetables and store in airtight containers for quick assembly.
- Pre-assemble components like sandwich toppings or taco fillings but keep the beef separate until serving.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we can ensure our leftover beef tenderloin recipes remain flavorful, tender, and safe to enjoy anytime.
Conclusion
Leftover beef tenderloin offers endless possibilities to create meals that are both quick and impressive. By using simple ingredients and a few essential tools, we can transform this premium cut into dishes that satisfy any craving. Whether it’s a cozy pasta or a vibrant stir-fry, these recipes help us enjoy every bit of flavor without waste.
With the right preparation and storage tips, keeping leftover tenderloin fresh and delicious is easier than ever. Let’s keep experimenting and making the most of our leftovers, turning them into new favorites that bring joy to our table time and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I use leftover beef tenderloin in meals?
Leftover beef tenderloin can be transformed into sandwiches, stir-fries, pasta dishes, salads, and tacos. These recipes are quick, flavorful, and help avoid food waste while making the most of this tender meat.
What ingredients are commonly used with leftover beef tenderloin?
Common ingredients include olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, mustard, crusty bread for sandwiches, fresh vegetables for stir-fries and salads, pasta, and soft tortillas for tacos.
What kitchen tools do I need to prepare leftover beef tenderloin recipes?
Essential tools include a sharp knife, cutting board, skillet or wok, spatula, and pots for boiling pasta. Optional tools like a food processor or salad spinner help but aren’t necessary.
How should I store leftover beef tenderloin?
Cool leftovers quickly, then refrigerate within two hours in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in airtight packages and use within 2-3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover beef tenderloin?
Reheat gently over low heat to avoid drying out, either in a skillet with a splash of broth or in the microwave at low power. Avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender.
Can I prepare sauces and dressings ahead of time?
Yes, preparing sauces, dressings, and chopping vegetables in advance saves time and helps you quickly assemble meals using leftover beef tenderloin.
How do I keep the beef tender when slicing for recipes?
Slice the beef thinly against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, making the slices more tender and easier to chew.
Are leftover beef tenderloin dishes healthy?
Yes, beef tenderloin is a lean source of protein. Paired with fresh vegetables and whole grains, these recipes can be part of a balanced, nutritious meal.
What meals are best for busy weeknights using leftover beef tenderloin?
Quick options like stir-fries, sandwiches, and pasta dishes are ideal for busy evenings, offering fast preparation without sacrificing flavor.
Can leftover beef tenderloin be used in cold dishes?
Absolutely. It works great in salads or sandwiches, where the beef can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature paired with fresh ingredients and zesty dressings.