Gorgonzola-Stuffed Beef Tenderloin with Port Wine Sauce
Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen
This Gorgonzola-Stuffed Beef Tenderloin with Port Wine Sauce is an exquisite dish that combines tender beef with rich flavors, perfect for a special occasion.
This dish takes a classic beef tenderloin and elevates it with the bold flavors of Gorgonzola cheese and a rich port wine sauce. Ideal for impressing guests or celebrating a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich Gorgonzola flavor that complements the tender beef
- Decadent port wine sauce adds a touch of elegance
- Perfect for special dinners or celebrations
The Perfect Cut of Beef
When it comes to selecting the right cut of beef for this recipe, the tenderloin is an exceptional choice. Known for its tenderness and rich flavor, beef tenderloin is the most premium cut available. It’s lean and melts in your mouth, making it an excellent canvas for the bold Gorgonzola cheese. When shopping, look for a tenderloin that has a good amount of marbling, which will enhance its flavor and juiciness during cooking.
Consider asking your butcher for a center-cut tenderloin, as this part of the beef offers the most uniform thickness, ensuring even cooking. Additionally, be sure to remove any silver skin, which can be tough and chewy, before starting to prepare your dish.
The Art of Stuffing
Stuffing the beef tenderloin is an art that can elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. The combination of Gorgonzola cheese, minced garlic, and fresh thyme creates a flavor profile that balances perfectly with the rich beef. To achieve the best results, use room temperature cheese, as it spreads more easily and infuses the beef with its creamy texture.
When butterfly cutting the beef, be careful to create an even layer for the stuffing. This ensures that each bite will be packed with flavor. After spreading the stuffing, folding the beef back over should be done carefully to maintain the integrity of the filling. Using kitchen twine to secure the tenderloin will help keep the stuffing in place while cooking.
Enhancing with Port Wine Sauce
The port wine sauce is the perfect accompaniment to the Gorgonzola-stuffed beef tenderloin, adding a layer of sophistication and depth. Port wine, a fortified wine, brings sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the beef and cheese. When reducing the sauce, patience is key; allowing it to simmer and thicken enhances its rich flavor profile.
Don’t rush this step! A well-reduced sauce will coat the back of a spoon and have a glossy finish, elevating the overall presentation of your dish. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary; this will ensure that your sauce complements the beef beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Beef Tenderloin
- 2 pounds beef tenderloin
- 4 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for searing
For the Port Wine Sauce
- 1 cup port wine
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for the best results.
Instructions
Prepare the Beef
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Butterfly the beef tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Open it up like a book.
Season the inside with salt and pepper, then spread the Gorgonzola cheese, minced garlic, and chopped thyme evenly over the surface.
Fold the tenderloin back over and secure it with kitchen twine.
Sear the Tenderloin
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Roast in the Oven
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
Make the Port Wine Sauce
While the beef is roasting, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and cook until translucent.
Pour in the port wine and beef broth, bringing it to a simmer. Reduce the sauce by half, then season with salt and pepper.
Serve
Once the beef is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the port wine sauce drizzled over the top.
Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
To create an impressive meal, consider pairing the Gorgonzola-Stuffed Beef Tenderloin with sides that complement its rich flavors. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, bring a fresh and vibrant element to your plate. Creamy mashed potatoes or a buttery polenta can also provide a comforting contrast to the dish's robust flavors.
Don’t forget about wine pairings! A full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, will enhance the dining experience. The wine's tannins will cut through the richness of the beef and cheese, making each bite even more delightful.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store the beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently to preserve the tenderness of the meat. A quick way to heat it is by placing slices in a skillet over low heat, covering it to retain moisture.
For the port wine sauce, store it separately in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this dish even after the main event!
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is versatile, allowing for various customizations based on your preferences. For a different flavor profile, consider using blue cheese or goat cheese in place of Gorgonzola. Each cheese brings its unique tanginess and richness that can alter the dish's character beautifully.
Incorporating herbs is another way to personalize your beef tenderloin. Experimenting with rosemary, sage, or even a hint of chili flakes can add layers of flavor. Feel free to get creative with your stuffing or sauce to make it your own, ensuring it suits your taste while still providing that wow factor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, blue cheese or feta can also work well in this recipe.
→ How do I know when the beef is cooked to my liking?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 130°F (54°C) for rare, 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, and 145°F (63°C) for medium.
→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time; just reheat before serving.
→ What sides pair well with this dish?
Roasted potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a mixed green salad would complement this dish beautifully.
Gorgonzola-Stuffed Beef Tenderloin with Port Wine Sauce
This Gorgonzola-Stuffed Beef Tenderloin with Port Wine Sauce is an exquisite dish that combines tender beef with rich flavors, perfect for a special occasion.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Cravings Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Beef Tenderloin
- 2 pounds beef tenderloin
- 4 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for searing
For the Port Wine Sauce
- 1 cup port wine
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Butterfly the beef tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Open it up like a book.
Season the inside with salt and pepper, then spread the Gorgonzola cheese, minced garlic, and chopped thyme evenly over the surface.
Fold the tenderloin back over and secure it with kitchen twine.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
While the beef is roasting, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and cook until translucent.
Pour in the port wine and beef broth, bringing it to a simmer. Reduce the sauce by half, then season with salt and pepper.
Once the beef is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the port wine sauce drizzled over the top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 45g