Grilled Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Béarnaise (Elegant Steakhouse Appetizer)

Introduction

Grilled Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Béarnaise is an elegant, steakhouse-quality appetizer that delivers bold flavor in a refined, bite-sized presentation. Tender slices of perfectly grilled beef tenderloin are layered over crisp crostini and finished with rich, velvety Béarnaise sauce—creating a luxurious balance of texture and taste.

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What Is Beef Tenderloin Crostini?

Beef Tenderloin Crostini is a sophisticated appetizer consisting of toasted bread topped with seared or grilled beef tenderloin and a complementary sauce. In this version, traditional French Béarnaise sauce—a butter-rich emulsion flavored with tarragon and shallots—adds indulgence and complexity.

Often served at upscale events, cocktail parties, and holiday gatherings, this dish offers the essence of a steakhouse experience in a small, shareable format.

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Why This Appetizer Is So Popular

• Elegant presentation with minimal plating effort
• Uses premium ingredients with simple preparation
• Perfect balance of crunchy, tender, and creamy textures
• Ideal for entertaining and special occasions
• Can be partially prepared ahead of time

This dish consistently delivers maximum impact with controlled portions and refined flavors.

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Key Ingredients and Their Role

Beef Tenderloin

The most tender cut of beef, offering buttery texture and mild flavor.

Crostini

Toasted bread provides structure and crunch.

Béarnaise Sauce

Adds richness, acidity, and herbal depth.

Fresh Herbs

Enhance aroma and visual appeal.

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Choosing the Best Beef Tenderloin

For optimal results:

• Choose center-cut beef tenderloin
• Look for even thickness and minimal silver skin
• USDA Choice or Prime preferred

Trim excess fat and silver skin before grilling to ensure clean slices.

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How to Grill Beef Tenderloin Perfectly

Seasoning

Simple seasoning works best:

• Kosher salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• Optional garlic powder or fresh thyme

Grilling Temperature

• Preheat grill to high heat (450–500°F / 230–260°C)
• Sear quickly to develop crust
• Finish to desired doneness

Internal Temperature Guide

• Rare: 120–125°F (49–52°C)
• Medium-rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)
• Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C)

Rest the meat at least 10 minutes before slicing.

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What Is Béarnaise Sauce?

Béarnaise is a classic French sauce derived from hollandaise, flavored with tarragon, shallots, vinegar, and white wine. Its rich, buttery profile pairs exceptionally well with beef.

Proper technique ensures a smooth, stable emulsion that elevates the dish.

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Béarnaise Sauce Ingredients

• White wine vinegar
• Dry white wine
• Shallots
• Fresh tarragon
• Egg yolks
• Unsalted butter
• Salt and white pepper

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How to Make Béarnaise Sauce

Step 1: Tarragon Reduction

Simmer vinegar, wine, shallots, and tarragon until reduced. Strain and cool slightly.

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Step 2: Emulsify

Whisk egg yolks with the reduction over gentle heat until thickened.

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Step 3: Add Butter

Slowly whisk in warm melted butter until smooth and creamy. Season to taste.

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Making the Crostini

Best Bread Choices

• Baguette
• Ciabatta
• Sourdough

Preparation

• Slice bread ½-inch thick
• Brush lightly with olive oil
• Toast until golden and crisp

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Grilled Beef Tenderloin Crostini Recipe

Ingredients (Makes 16–20 crostini)

Beef

• 1½ lb beef tenderloin
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil

Crostini

• 1 baguette, sliced
• Olive oil

Béarnaise Sauce

• ¼ cup white wine vinegar
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• 2 tbsp minced shallots
• 2 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped
• 3 egg yolks
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
• Salt and white pepper

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Step 1: Grill the Beef

Season beef, grill over high heat, and cook to medium-rare. Rest and slice thinly.

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Step 2: Toast the Crostini

Brush bread with olive oil and toast until golden.

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Step 3: Prepare Béarnaise Sauce

Follow reduction and emulsification steps. Keep warm.

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Step 4: Assemble

Top each crostini with beef slice and spoon Béarnaise over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs.

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Tips for Professional Results

• Slice beef against the grain
• Keep Béarnaise warm, not hot
• Assemble just before serving
• Use a piping bag for neat sauce application

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking tenderloin
• Breaking the Béarnaise sauce
• Using soggy bread
• Assembling too early

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Variations and Enhancements

Truffle Béarnaise

Add a few drops of truffle oil.

Blue Cheese Option

Replace Béarnaise with blue cheese mousse.

Horseradish Béarnaise

Add prepared horseradish for heat.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with sparkling wine or Champagne
• Serve alongside charcuterie
• Ideal for cocktail parties and holidays

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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Beef can be grilled up to 24 hours ahead
• Crostini can be toasted in advance
• Béarnaise is best made fresh

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per Crostini)

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 6 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Béarnaise ahead of time?

It is best served fresh but can be held warm briefly.

What doneness is best for crostini?

Medium-rare provides the best tenderness.

Can I pan-sear instead of grill?

Yes, a cast-iron skillet works well.

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Why This Appetizer Is Worth Making

Grilled Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Béarnaise delivers steakhouse luxury in a refined, approachable format—perfect for elevating any gathering.

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Final Thoughts

This dish proves that elegant entertaining does not require complicated techniques. With quality ingredients and proper execution, Grilled Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Béarnaise becomes an unforgettable appetizer that showcases both flavor and finesse.

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