We’ve all encountered that post-dinner dilemma with leftover beef tenderloin staring back from the fridge. It’s a prime cut often gracing holiday tables yet we know how easy it is to repurpose it into fresh exciting meals that minimize waste and maximize flavor.
Our simple recipe transforms those tender slices into a quick satisfying dish you’ll crave again. Drawing from our years of kitchen experiments we’re confident this approach keeps things juicy and packed with taste so you can enjoy restaurant-quality results at home.
Ingredients
In our recipe for leftover beef tenderloin, we focus on simple, high-quality ingredients that transform this premium cut into a flavorful, waste-reducing meal. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they’ll be used, with precise measurements and prep notes for easy preparation.
- Leftover beef tenderloin: 2 cups, sliced thinly against the grain for tenderness and quick reheating.
- Onion: 1 medium, diced finely to build a savory base.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced for aromatic flavor enhancement.
- Bell pepper: 1 large, sliced into strips for added crunch and color.
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons, low-sodium variety to season and add umami without overpowering.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing to keep the beef juicy.
- Fresh herbs (e.g., cilantro or parsley): ¼ cup, chopped roughly for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, ground freshly for optimal seasoning balance.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our leftover beef tenderloin recipe efficiently, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure smooth cooking and enhance safety in the kitchen. These items help us handle slicing, sautéing, and seasoning with precision, building on the ingredients we outlined earlier.
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip surface for safely slicing and dicing the leftover beef tenderloin and vegetables, preventing any mishaps during prep.
- Chef’s knife: Sharp and reliable for finely dicing onions, mincing garlic cloves, and thinly slicing bell peppers to achieve even cooking.
- Large skillet or frying pan: Ideal for sautéing in olive oil, as it provides even heat distribution to keep the beef tender and juicy while adding flavors from soy sauce and herbs.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and tossing ingredients without damaging the pan, ensuring our dish develops a rich, savory coating.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Essential for accurately measuring soy sauce, olive oil, and herbs, guaranteeing the right balance of flavors in every bite.
- Mixing bowl: Useful for combining chopped herbs and seasonings before adding them to the skillet, allowing for quick and organized assembly.
By having these tools ready, we can transform our leftover beef tenderloin into a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.
Instructions
We transform leftover beef tenderloin into a mouthwatering stir-fry that maximizes flavor and minimizes waste, drawing on our years of recipe testing for reliable results. Let’s dive into the steps for a juicy, aromatic dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Work
Before cooking, we prepare our ingredients to ensure everything integrates smoothly and efficiently.
- Slice the beef: Take 2 cups of leftover beef tenderloin and slice it into thin strips, about ¼-inch thick, for quick reheating and even flavor distribution.
- Dice the onion: Finely dice 1 medium onion to release its sweet, pungent aroma when sautéed.
- Mince the garlic: Mince 3 garlic cloves to a fine consistency, enhancing the dish with their bold, garlicky essence.
- Slice the bell pepper: Cut 1 large bell pepper into thin strips, aiming for vibrant color and a crisp texture that adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch.
- Chop the herbs: Roughly chop ¼ cup of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, setting them aside for a burst of herby brightness at the end.
- Measure seasonings: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, and have salt and black pepper ready to taste, adjusting for a perfectly balanced, savory profile.
Cooking
We cook the ingredients in a hot skillet to create a caramelized, flavorful stir-fry that locks in the tenderloin’s juices.
- Heat the oil: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, swirling it to coat the bottom evenly until it shimmers and releases a fragrant, nutty scent.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the hot oil, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns golden and soft, filling the kitchen with an irresistible, savory aroma.
- Add the bell pepper: Toss in the sliced bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens slightly but retains a crisp-tender bite and brightens the pan with its vivid colors.
- Incorporate the beef: Add the sliced beef tenderloin to the skillet, stirring gently for 3-4 minutes until it’s heated through and the edges crisp up, releasing rich, juicy flavors that make the dish feel indulgent.
- Season the mixture: Pour in the 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, then season with salt and black pepper to taste, cooking for 1 more minute to create a glossy, umami-packed coating that elevates the tenderloin’s natural taste.
Assembling
Finally, we bring it all together for a cohesive, restaurant-quality finish that highlights the dish’s vibrant textures and flavors.
- Mix in the herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh herbs, tossing everything for 30 seconds to infuse the stir-fry with a fresh, herbaceous pop that brightens the overall savoriness.
- Check and adjust: Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings if needed, ensuring a harmonious blend of juicy beef, crisp vegetables, and aromatic notes before serving hot for maximum enjoyment.
Make-Ahead Tips
To maximize convenience with our recipe for leftover beef tenderloin, we often prepare components in advance without compromising flavor or texture. This approach allows us to enjoy a quick, restaurant-quality stir-fry even on busy days. Below, we outline practical steps and strategies for efficient meal prep.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We recommend handling the prep work early to save time during cooking. Here’s how:
- Slice the beef: Cut 2 cups of leftover beef tenderloin into thin slices and store it in an airtight container. This keeps the meat juicy and ready to use.
- Chop vegetables: Dice 1 medium onion and mince 3 garlic cloves, then place them in separate sealed bags in the refrigerator. Slice 1 large bell pepper and store it similarly to maintain its crispness.
- Measure seasonings: Combine 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl or jar. Add ¼ cup of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before cooking to preserve their vibrancy.
Storing the Cooked Dish
If we’ve made a larger batch of the stir-fry, proper storage ensures it stays delicious for later meals. Follow these guidelines for safety and quality:
- Refrigeration: Cool the cooked stir-fry completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 3 days, retaining its flavors if reheated properly.
- Freezing: For longer storage, portion the stir-fry into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it ideal for meal planning.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying out the beef. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for even results. |
Reheating for Optimal Results
- Heat a large skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, then add the stored stir-fry and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If reheating from frozen, thaw first in the refrigerator to prevent uneven heating, then follow the same skillet method.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving to ensure the dish remains as flavorful as when freshly made.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this simple way to breathe new life into your leftover beef tenderloin. It’s a smart move that cuts waste while delivering a restaurant-worthy meal in minutes.
Next time you’ve got extras, give our stir-fry a go and discover how easy it is to elevate everyday ingredients. We’re sure it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen, keeping meals fresh and flavorful for us all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with leftover beef tenderloin?
Leftover beef tenderloin is a premium cut perfect for repurposing into new dishes to cut down on waste. A simple stir-fry transforms it into a juicy, flavorful meal that’s easy to make at home. Using high-quality ingredients like veggies and herbs, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in minutes, making it ideal for quick dinners after special occasions.
What ingredients are needed for the beef tenderloin stir-fry recipe?
You’ll need 2 cups of thinly sliced leftover beef tenderloin, 1 medium diced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 large sliced bell pepper, 2 tablespoons each of low-sodium soy sauce and olive oil, plus ¼ cup of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste for a balanced, delicious flavor.
How do I prepare the beef tenderloin stir-fry?
Start by prepping ingredients on a cutting board with a sharp knife. Heat olive oil in a large skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant, add bell pepper, then mix in the sliced beef. Stir in soy sauce and season to taste. Cook for about 5-10 minutes to lock in juices, and finish with fresh herbs. Ready in under 30 minutes!
How long does it take to make this stir-fry?
The entire recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a fast option for busy nights. It involves quick prep like slicing ingredients and simple cooking in a hot skillet to keep the beef tender and flavorful.
Can I make the stir-fry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep ingredients like sliced beef and chopped veggies in advance to save time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The cooked stir-fry holds up well if refrigerated promptly, allowing you to enjoy it later without losing much flavor or texture.
How should I store and reheat the stir-fry?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of soy sauce or herbs before serving to refresh flavors and keep the beef juicy.