Veal Tenderloin Recipe Ideas for Delicious Meals

Updated On: October 16, 2025

Veal tenderloin is one of the most tender and flavorful cuts of meat you can cook at home. Known for its delicate texture and subtle taste, veal tenderloin makes an excellent centerpiece for an elegant dinner or a special occasion meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore fine dining at home, this recipe will guide you through preparing a perfectly cooked veal tenderloin that’s juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor.

With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you’ll be able to impress your guests or enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort.

This recipe focuses on highlighting the natural flavors of the veal, enhanced with fragrant herbs and a luscious pan sauce that complements every bite. Pair it with fresh vegetables or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.

Get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veal tenderloin recipe stands out because it’s both simple and sophisticated. The method ensures the meat stays incredibly tender and juicy by searing it quickly and then finishing it in the oven.

The addition of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme adds a lovely aromatic touch that elevates the flavor without overpowering the natural veal taste.

Perfect for celebrations or a quiet night in, this dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Plus, it’s a great way to explore veal if you haven’t cooked with it before.

The recipe also includes tips to help you achieve the perfect medium-rare cook every time, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds veal tenderloin, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional for pan sauce)
  • 1/2 cup beef or veal broth
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan
  • Tongs for turning the meat
  • Meat thermometer (recommended for perfect doneness)
  • Sharp knife for trimming and slicing
  • Cutting board
  • Small mixing bowl for sauce ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the veal tenderloin dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
  2. Season the veal generously with salt, pepper, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Rub the seasonings into the meat for full flavor.
  3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the veal in the pan and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Add butter to the pan and baste the veal by spooning melted butter over the meat. This adds richness and helps develop flavor.
  5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the veal tenderloin for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
  6. Remove the veal from the oven and transfer it to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 10 minutes to redistribute the juices.
  7. While the veal rests, make the pan sauce. Place the skillet back on the stove over medium heat. Add the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
  8. Add broth and Dijon mustard, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  9. Slice the veal tenderloin into medallions and drizzle with the pan sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

“Resting the meat is key to a juicy tenderloin – don’t skip it!”

  • For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of heavy cream to the pan sauce at the end.
  • Swap fresh herbs with dried if needed, but reduce the quantity by half as dried herbs are more concentrated.
  • If you prefer your veal more well done, cook it until it reaches 145°F (63°C) internal temperature.
  • Try wrapping the tenderloin in prosciutto before searing for an extra layer of savory flavor.
  • Serve with a garlic mashed potato or a creamy polenta for a comforting meal.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 320
Protein 38g
Fat 18g
Saturated Fat 6g
Cholesterol 110mg
Carbohydrates 2g
Sodium 400mg

Serving Suggestions

Veal tenderloin pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides that complement its delicate flavor. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables to keep the meal balanced and vibrant.

For a refreshing contrast, try a Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas — the bright flavors and crunchy texture work wonderfully with tender veal.

Alternatively, a creamy polenta or garlic mashed potatoes make for a cozy and indulgent base. Roasted carrots or asparagus tossed with lemon and herbs also add a lovely touch of color and flavor.

Conclusion

Cooking veal tenderloin at home is a rewarding experience that delivers a tender, juicy, and flavorful meal perfect for any special occasion or an elevated weeknight dinner. With this recipe, you have all the tools you need to create a stunning dish that highlights the beautiful qualities of veal without overwhelming it with too many ingredients.

Take your time with the seasoning, searing, and resting steps to ensure the best results. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the pan sauce or accompaniments to make the dish your own.

For more delicious and easy recipes, explore our collection such as Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals to keep your culinary adventures exciting and diverse!

📖 Recipe Card: Veal Tenderloin Recipe

Description: A tender and flavorful veal tenderloin perfect for a special dinner. Easy to prepare with simple seasoning and a quick pan-sear.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds veal tenderloin
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Season veal tenderloin with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme.
  3. Heat olive oil in oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Sear veal on all sides until browned, about 3 minutes per side.
  5. Add garlic and butter to skillet, spoon melted butter over veal.
  6. Transfer skillet to oven and roast for 10-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  7. Remove veal and let rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Deglaze skillet with white wine and beef broth, simmer until reduced by half.
  9. Slice veal and serve with pan sauce.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 38g | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 2g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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