All Recipes

Classic Chateaubriand with Red Wine Sauce

60 min 4 servings Medium
Chateaubriand is a classic French dish that epitomizes luxury and sophistication. Traditionally, it involves a centre-cut of beef tenderloin, making it incredibly tender and perfect for special occasions. The dish is often paired with a rich red wine sauce, elevating its flavours to new heights. This version of Chateaubriand balances simplicity and elegance, ensuring that even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results at home. The key lies in the quality of the beef and the depth of flavour in the accompanying sauce. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a romantic evening in, this Chateaubriand recipe is sure to impress.

Instructions

1

Prepare the Beef

Remove the beef tenderloin from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels.

Pro tip: This step ensures even cooking.

2

Season the Beef

Rub the tenderloin with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Pro tip: Seasoning enhances the natural flavour of the beef.

3

Sear the Beef

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a large oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Pro tip: Browning adds depth to the flavour.

4

Roast the Beef

Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.

Pro tip: For medium, aim for 140°F (60°C).

5

Rest the Beef

Remove the beef from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes before slicing.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute.

6

Prepare the Sauce

While the beef rests, make the sauce. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallots and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.

Pro tip: Use the same pan to incorporate all the flavours.

7

Make the Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the shallots and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Pour in red wine and beef stock, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.

Pro tip: A well-reduced sauce coats the back of a spoon.

8

Serve

Slice the Chateaubriand and serve with the red wine sauce drizzled over the top.

💡

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure your beef is at room temperature before cooking for even doneness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to achieve your desired level of doneness.
  • Resting the meat is crucial for juicy results.
  • Choose a full-bodied red wine for the sauce to enhance the flavours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chateaubriand?

Chateaubriand is a thick cut of beef tenderloin, traditionally served with a rich sauce.

How do you cook Chateaubriand?

Sear the beef, then roast in an oven at 375°F (190°C) until the desired doneness is achieved.

What sauce goes with Chateaubriand?

A red wine sauce is commonly paired with Chateaubriand to enhance its rich flavours.

How many calories are in Chateaubriand?

A serving of Chateaubriand with sauce contains approximately 450 calories.

What wine pairs well with Chateaubriand?

A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pairs excellently with Chateaubriand.

How long should Chateaubriand rest after cooking?

Chateaubriand should rest for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Can Chateaubriand be made ahead?

The sauce can be made ahead of time, but the beef is best cooked fresh. Reheat the sauce gently before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chateaubriand with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to complement its rich flavours. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also works well to cut through the richness of the dish. You can prepare the red wine sauce ahead of time and reheat gently before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, but note that Chateaubriand is best enjoyed fresh.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

38g

Protein

30g

Fat

5g

Carbs