Honey Garlic beef Tenderloin
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, then this Honey Garlic beef Tenderloin is just what you need! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it combines the rich flavors of garlic and honey in a way that elevates the beef to something truly special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this tenderloin never fails to impress.
The combination of savory spices, a beautiful sear, and that delectable honey garlic sauce makes this dish perfect for any occasion. Your loved ones will rave about it—and trust me, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a fantastic meal on the table in no time!
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet and savory sauce appeals to everyone, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautifully sliced beef drizzled with sauce looks stunning on any dinner table.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can season the beef ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
- Versatile Pairing Options: Serve with your favorite sides like roasted veggies or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Honey Garlic beef Tenderloin. These are items you might already have on hand or can easily find at your local grocery store:
For the Beef
- 2 (1 pound each) beef tenderloins
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
For the Sauce
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup tamari soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 6 garlic cloves (minced)
Variations
This Honey Garlic beef Tenderloin is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations you might want to try:
- Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for beef, try using chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add some heat: Spice things up by adding crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Change up the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano to give your tenderloin a unique flavor profile.
- Serve it differently: Instead of slicing it, serve whole tenderloins on a cutting board for an impressive presentation.
How to Make Honey Garlic beef Tenderloin
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, sweet paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. This spice blend will create an incredible flavor base that enhances the natural taste of the tenderloin.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together honey, tamari soy sauce (or coconut aminos), apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic. This sauce is what gives our dish its delightful sweetness and depth of flavor. Set it aside so it’s ready when we need it!
Step 3: Season the Tenderloins
Take those beautiful tenderloins and sprinkle your spice mixture all over them. Use your hands to rub it in well—this ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 4: Sear the Tenderloin
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your seasoned beef and cook until browned on all sides—about 4 minutes total. This step is crucial as it locks in juices and creates that lovely golden crust we all love.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Turn off the stove after searing! Pour your prepared honey garlic sauce over the meat in the skillet. Use tongs to turn the beef until it’s fully coated in that luscious glaze. Now transfer everything to your preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes until an instant-read thermometer reads 140°F (60°C).
Step 6: Reduce the Sauce
Remove your delicious tenderloins from the skillet and cover them with foil; let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. While they rest, place that skillet back on medium heat and simmer remaining sauce for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. If you prefer a thicker glaze, feel free to stir in some cornstarch or arrowroot powder.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Finally! Slice your tenderloin into half-inch pieces and arrange them beautifully on a platter. Drizzle that irresistible honey garlic sauce all over before serving. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned this delicious meal!
Pro Tips for Making Honey Garlic Beef Tenderloin
Cooking a perfect beef tenderloin can be a breeze with just a few helpful hints! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time.
- Use Room Temperature Meat: Allow the beef tenderloin to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and results in a juicier outcome.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: After removing the tenderloin from the oven, let it rest covered with foil for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is tender and flavorful.
- Check the Temperature: Invest in an instant-read thermometer to accurately check doneness. Aim for 140°F (60°C) for medium-rare; this ensures you achieve that perfect pink center without overcooking.
- Experiment with Marinades: For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the beef tenderloins in the honey garlic sauce for a few hours or overnight. This deepens the flavors and enhances tenderness.
- Make Extra Sauce: If you love sauce (who doesn’t?), double the recipe! Having extra honey garlic sauce on hand is perfect for drizzling over vegetables or serving alongside your side dishes.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Beef Tenderloin
Presenting your Honey Garlic Beef Tenderloin can turn a simple dinner into an impressive feast! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine on the table.
Garnishes
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over the sliced beef to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and enhances visual appeal.
Side Dishes
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that complements the savory flavors of the beef while adding comfort to your meal.
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until caramelized. They provide not only color but also a delicious contrast to the rich beef.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a lemon vinaigrette is perfect for balancing out the richness of the tenderloin while adding refreshing flavors.
- Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, steamed broccoli or asparagus adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate. A squeeze of lemon juice can enhance their natural flavors beautifully.
With these tips and serving suggestions, your Honey Garlic Beef Tenderloin will be sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Honey Garlic Beef Tenderloin recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy delicious, flavorful meals throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the beef to cool completely before storing.
- Place any leftover slices in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- For best results, thaw frozen beef overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
- Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!
Can I use a different cut of beef for Honey Garlic Beef Tenderloin?
While tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can substitute with sirloin or flank steak. Just adjust cooking times as these cuts may require less time to cook.
How do I achieve the perfect doneness for my Honey Garlic Beef Tenderloin?
To achieve medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness accurately and ensure juicy results.
What can I serve with Honey Garlic Beef Tenderloin?
Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will impress your guests!
Can I make the honey garlic sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick reheat before adding it to the pan with your seared tenderloin.
Final Thoughts
I hope you love making this Honey Garlic Beef Tenderloin as much as I do! The combination of savory spices and sweet honey garlic sauce creates an unforgettable flavor that will elevate any dinner table. Enjoy preparing this special dish and sharing it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
Honey Garlic Beef Tenderloin
If you’re in search of a standout dish that is both impressive and simple to prepare, look no further than this Honey Garlic Beef Tenderloin. Combining the rich flavors of garlic and sweet honey, this recipe elevates tender beef to a culinary delight perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering. With its savory spices and beautiful presentation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 (1 pound each) beef tenderloins
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup tamari soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 6 garlic cloves (minced)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the sauce by whisking together honey, tamari soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic in a separate bowl.
- Rub the spice mixture over the beef tenderloins thoroughly.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the seasoned beef until browned on all sides.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the beef and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes until an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) is reached.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Simmer remaining sauce on medium heat until slightly thickened.
- Serve sliced tenderloin drizzled with the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg