In the world of cooking, beef tenderloin holds a special place, well known for its tenderness and rich flavor profile. When paired with the innovative cooking method of an air fryer, this prime cut transforms into a gourmet chef-d’oeuvre.

Imagine a beef tenderloin marinated with the aromatic herb duo of rosemary and thyme, seasoned with the perfect pinch of salt, and given a light undertone of garlic; all brought to life with the shine of light olive oil. 

Understanding the Beef Tenderloin

Before plunging into the cooking method, it’s vital to understand the cut you’re working with. Beef tenderloin, often referred to as the ‘king of steaks,’ is prized for its tenderness. Its soft texture and rich flavor make it a favorite for special occasions and gourmet dinners. And if you like this recipe, be sure to check one of the most popular recipes on this site, air fryer pork tenderloin!

Why the Air Fryer?

The air fryer, a modern kitchen phenomenon, offers several advantages:

Consistent Cooking: The circulating hot air ensures even cooking, eliminating the risk of hot spots.

Time Efficiency: Quicker than traditional ovens, it brings meals to the table in no time.

Benefits: The tiniest oil usage is a more beneficial alternative, letting the meat’s natural flavors shine through.

Preparation: Marinating and Seasoning

The magnificence of this dish lies in its simplicity. Combining rosemary, thyme, salt, and garlic powder creates a marinade that improves the beef’s natural flavors without overwhelming them. Light olive oil acts as a binder, ensuring the seasonings adhere to the meat and achieving that golden crust.

Cooking to Perfection

Preheat: Always start with a preheated air fryer. Set it to 390°F / 190°C.

Marinate: Coat your beef tenderloin evenly with the seasoning mix, covering every inch.

Placement: Lay your beef in the air fryer basket, ensuring it doesn’t touch the sides.

Cooking: Set the air-fryer temperature to 380°F / 190°C. Cook 18-21 minutes for medium rare, flipping your tenderloin halfway through cooking. The duration will vary based on desired doneness, but frequent temperature checks will ensure perfection.

Resting: A critical step. Once cooked, let the beef rest for 5-10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute.

Beef Tenderloin Doneness Guide

Rare: 13-17 mins (125°F/ 52°C)

Medium Rare: 18-21 mins (135°F/ 57°C)

Medium: 22-26 mins (145°F/ 63°C)

Medium Well: 27-31 mins (150°F/ 66°C)

Well Done: 32-36 mins (160°F/ 71°C)

Air-Fryer Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Ready to make this juicy air fryer beef tenderloin”? With your ingredients at hand, let’s guide you step-by-step to accomplish that perfect roast. It’s time to get that air fryer working its magic!

Ingredients:

• 1lb/ 450g beef tenderloin
• 1 Tbsp of olive oil
• ½ tsp of salt
• 1 tsp of rosemary and thyme (fresh or dried)
• ¼ tsp of garlic powder

Instructions

Preparation Phase:

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Before you start, ensure your air fryer is preheated to 390°F (190°C). This step is important as it delivers a consistent cooking environment right from the start.
• Marinate the Beef: Using a mixing bowl, combine the light olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and garlic powder. Stir well until you have a uniform mixture. Lay the beef tenderloin on a tray or plate and generously brush or rub the marinade over it, ensuring it’s equally coated on all sides.

Cooking Phase:

• Positioning the Beef: Gently place the marinated beef tenderloin into your air fryer basket. Ensure it’s centrally placed and not touching the sides to allow for even air circulation.
• Initial Cooking: Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C)., and cook for 18-21 minutes for medium rare. Allow your beef tenderloin to cook undisturbed for half the total cooking time based on your desired level of doneness (refer to the doneness guide).
• Flipping for Evenness: After the initial cooking stage, using tongs or a spatula, carefully flip your beef tenderloin to its other side. This ensures even cooking and a uniform crust on both sides.
• Complete the Cooking: Keep cooking the beef tenderloin for the remaining duration. It’s a good practice to check the beef’s internal temperature using a meat thermometer to avoid over or under-cooking.

Post-Cooking Phase:

• Resting the Beef: Remove it from the air fryer once your beef tenderloin reaches the desired internal temperature. Transfer it to a plate or cutting board and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting phase lets the juices redistribute within the beef, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
• Slicing and Serving: Use a sharp knife to slice the beef tenderloin against the grain after resting. This method ensures maximum tenderness. Serve the slices immediately, paired with your choice of side dishes.

Have you made this beefy chef-d’oeuvre in your air fryer? Loved it? Snap it and pin it on Pinterest. Good food should be shared, don’t you think?

Variations to Spice Up Your Beef Tenderloin Recipe

The magnificence of a traditional recipe like the air fryer beef tenderloin is its adaptability. Here are some variations to consider, each bringing a special twist to your dining table:

Herb Delight:

• Ingredients: Swap out rosemary and thyme for other fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley.
• Instructions: Follow the same marinating procedure, ensuring the beef is well-coated with the new herb blend.
• Serving Suggestion: This variation pairs beautifully with a light pasta salad or garlic bread.

Spicy Kick:

• Ingredients: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy touch.
• Instructions: Mix the spicy ingredients with the standard marinade ingredients and coat the beef tenderloin evenly.
• Serving Suggestion: Complete the spicy beef with a cooling side, like a cucumber salad or a yogurt-based dip.

Asian Fusion:

• Ingredients: Add soy sauce, ginger paste, and a touch of honey to the marinade.
• Instructions: Incorporate the new ingredients with the olive oil, ensuring a balanced mix. Marinate the beef tenderloin as usual.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Mediterranean Flavors:

• Ingredients: Add lemon zest, crushed garlic, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
• Instructions: Mix the Mediterranean ingredients with the standard marinade ingredients. After cooking, sprinkle the crumbled feta over the beef slices.
• Serving Suggestion: A side of Greek salad or roasted Mediterranean vegetables would perfectly match.

Sweet and Savory:

• Ingredients: Add a bit of brown sugar or maple syrup to the marinade.
• Instructions: Mix the sweet element with the regular marinade, ensuring the beef is well-coated. The sugar will caramelize during cooking, delivering a delightful crust.
• Serving Suggestion: This variation pairs well with roasted sweet potatoes or a fresh apple slaw.

More Delicious Air-Fryer Recipes 

Air Fryer Pork Steak: Juicy pork steak, air-fried to perfection.
Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Breast: Tender chicken, straight from frozen.
Quick and Easy Air Fryer Brats: Flavor-packed brats, ready in no time.
Crispy Air Fryer Corn Dogs: Carnival-style corn dogs, crispy delight.
Air-Fryer Salmon Bites in Pineapple Bowl: Savory salmon meets sweet pineapple.

Uncover the art of preparing the flawless smoked brats, enriched with a hint of brown sugar and paired with aromatic seasonings, for a grilling experience that stands out.

Bratwursts, aka brats, are German sausages and have long been a favorite on grills worldwide. In this recipe, we’re taking the classic brat and elevating its flavors with a hint of brown sugar, complementing the delicious meat with a subtle sweetness.

Paired with the fragrant blend of garlic, onion, and beer, these smoked brats sausages are a lovely fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors. As you dive into this article, you’ll uncover the step-by-step process to achieve perfectly smoked brats and various serving suggestions, tips for the best results, and creative variations to customize the dish to your preference.

Why These Smoked Brats Are a Must-Try:

Sweet Meets Savory: The brown sugar doesn’t just add sweetness; it creates a caramelized exterior that contrasts beautifully with the savory meat.

Beer Onions: These onions, simmered in beer, offer a malty, subtle, and profound richness.

All-Occasion Dish: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a game day, or a cheerful family dinner, these sausages fit right in.

Universal Appeal: They’re not just for sausage lovers. The distinctive flavor profile appeals to a wide range of palates.

Variations to Try:

1. Cheese Dream: Melt the cheddar cheese or smoked gouda over the brats for a creamy contrast.
2. Herb Haven: Fresh basil, cilantro, or even tarragon can add a refreshing herbal touch.
3. Spice Seekers: Blend sliced jalapeños or drizzle with a homemade spicy mayo made with sriracha and lime.
4. Sauce Swap: Consider a tangy apple cider vinegar BBQ sauce or a rich bourbon-infused sauce.
5. Tropical Touch: A pineapple and mango salsa with a hint of red chili can add a sweet and spicy contrast.
6. Mediterranean Mood: Crumbled Greek feta, kalamata olives, and a drizzle of tzatziki can transport you to the Mediterranean.
7. Asian Angle: A teriyaki glaze sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds and green onions can offer an Eastern variation.
8. Tex-Mex Tango: A bit of guacamole, fresh pico de gallo, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese can add a Southwestern flair.

Serving Suggestions:

Buns:

• German Brötchen: These crispy buns are a classic choice, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Brioche Buns: Their slight sweetness and buttery taste complement the smokiness of your brats.
• Hamburger Buns: A soft and classic choice, they’re readily available and always a hit.

Sauces & Spreads: Consider presenting a range of condiments like spicy mustard, tangy sauerkraut, or even a homemade beer cheese sauce.

Potato Pairings: Garlic mashed potatoes with a touch of rosemary or crispy potato wedges seasoned with sweet paprika and thyme.

Vibrant Veggies: Grilled asparagus with a sprinkle of parmesan, buttered corn on the cob with chili powder, or roasted bell peppers drizzled with balsamic.

Salad Selections: A fresh garden salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette. Or, consider a tangy coleslaw with a hint of apple cider vinegar and mustard seeds.

Drink Delights: Pair with a cold amber ale, a refreshing iced tea with a splash of lemon, or a Kenny’s cooler cocktail.

Smoked Brats Recipe

Release the grillmaster within! Dive into a recipe that transforms ordinary brats into a smoky sensation.

Ingredients:

• Brats (6 pieces)
• Brown sugar (2 tablespoons)
• Beer (1 cup for the onions)
• Onions, finely sliced (2 large)
• Butter (2 tablespoons)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Buns (6, for serving)
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon)

Instructions:

• Preheat the Smoker: Get the smoker up to a temperature of 275 F using your chosen hardwood for a rich, smoky flavor.
• Smoke the Brats: Place the brats sausages directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Allow them to smoke for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until their internal temperature reads 160 F.
• Prepare the Beer Onions: As your brats smoke, it’s time for the onions. In a large skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onions until lightly browned. Stir in the beer, brown sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer until the beer reduces and the onions are plump and flavorful, which should take about 15 minutes.
• Finish the Brats: Once your brats have reached the desired temperature, you can serve them as they are, with a snappy skin. If you prefer a crunchier exterior, boost your grill’s heat and sear the brats for 2-3 minutes. This might cause them to split, giving them a crispy outer layer.
• Serve and Enjoy: Lay out your buns, place a smoked brat in each, and generously top with the beer onions. Add your favorite condiments and enjoy your perfect smoked brats!

Do you like our Smoked Brats? Slide that mouthwatering image below onto your Pinterest, and watch the ‘likes’ roll in! 🙂

Tips for Perfect Smoked Brats:

• Temperature Tactics: A steady smoker’s temperature guarantees even cooking. Consider using a smoker thermometer for precision.
• Rest & Revel: Post-smoking, letting the rest of the brats ensure the juices redistribute, making every bite juicy.
• Wood Wisdom: Applewood or cherrywood chips can impart a milder, fruity-smoke flavor. For a more vital smoky note, consider hickory.
• Slicing Strategy: When serving, slice the brats at a diagonal. This increases the surface area for toppings and presents beautifully on a plate.

When it comes to holiday meals or just a weekend treat, a grilled prime rib stands out. Grilling it imparts a smoky flavor and frees up your oven for other culinary endeavors. This specific recipe takes the classic grilled prime rib and adds a touch of fresh basil, complementing the already rich flavors of rosemary and thyme. Let’s delve into the details of this mouthwatering dish.

There’s something unique about grilling a prime rib. Maybe it’s the way the herbs, like rosemary, thyme, and basil, meld with the meat, or perhaps it’s the simple joy of cooking outdoors. In this recipe, we’re taking that traditional prime rib and giving it a little twist with a blend of everyday ingredients.

Olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic come together with our chosen herbs to create a delicious crust that complements the juicy meat inside. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both satisfying and a bit adventurous, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into the details and get that grill fired up, and don’t fail to check our section with all the potential variations for this recipe!

Why This Grilled Prime Rib Stands Out:

Herbaceous Harmony: The trio of rosemary, thyme, and basil creates an aromatic and flavorful fragrant crust.

Grill Mastery: Achieving that excellent sear gives the prime rib a crispy exterior, contrasting beautifully with its juicy interior.

Versatile Cooking: This prime rib isn’t just confined to the grill. Its flavors shine whether smoked, oven-roasted, or even pan-seared.

Perfect Marbling: The choice of a prime rib ensures a tender cut with exquisite marbling, which translates to a melt-in-the-mouth experience.

Balanced Flavors: The variety of savory seasonings and fresh herbs ensures that every bite perfectly balances flavors, neither too overpowering nor too bland.

Serving Suggestions:

Boost your prime rib meal with these complementary sides:

Potato Delights:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy with a touch of garlic is a classic pairing.
• Rosemary Roasted Potatoes: Golden and crispy, infused with the fragrance of rosemary.

Veggies Galore:

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized to perfection with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
• Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with buttery almonds.

Salads & More:

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing.
• Cranberry Walnut Salad: A mixture of greens, tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a light vinaigrette.

Breads:

• Artisanal Bread: Freshly baked bread, perfect for soaking up any juices.
• Garlic Herb Butter Rolls: Soft rolls slathered with garlic and herb-infused butter.

Wine Pairing: A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, with their full-bodied flavors, completes the rich and herbaceous notes of the prime rib.

Grilled Prime Rib Recipe

Dive into a prime rib recipe that’s all about the grill. With a combination of rosemary, thyme, basil, and classic seasonings, this dish promises a flavorful crust, a tender inside with simple ingredients, and outstanding results. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• Prime Rib: 7 lbs
• Olive Oil: 4 Tbsp
• Kosher Salt: 2 tsp
• Ground Black Pepper: 2 tsp
• Fresh Rosemary: 1 1/2 tsp
• Fresh Thyme: 1 tsp
• Fresh Basil: 1 tsp
• Minced Garlic: 2 Tbsp

Instructions:

• Preparation: Allow your prime rib to sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours. This ensures even grilling.
• Herb Mix: In a bowl, incorporate olive oil, seasonings, and herbs. Rub this mixture generously over the prime rib.
• Grilling Start: Preheat your grill to 250°F. Place your prime rib over indirect heat, with the fat side facing up.
• Slow and Steady: Close the grill lid and let it cook for 2-3 hours. Watch until the internal temperature reaches 110°F.
• Final Sear: Ramp up your grill’s temperature to 400°F. Resume cooking for another 30-40 minutes, striving for an internal temperature of 135°F.
• Rest and Serve: Cover the prime rib with foil once off the grill. Let it rest for 30 minutes before slicing it against the grain. Serve with sides of your choice.

Impressed by this herb-laden grilled prime rib? Share the love and let others in on this culinary delight by pinning the image below on your Pinterest board!

Tips for Prime Rib Perfection:

Size Matters: A general guideline is to account for about 1 pound of prime rib per person, primarily if you serve with hearty sides.

Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure correct cooking. Aim for your preferred level of doneness, from rare to well-done.

Resting Phase: Allowing the prime rib to rest ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in moist and flavorful meat.

Variations to Explore:

Spice It Up:

• Cayenne Kick: A drizzle of cayenne pepper can add a spicy dimension to the herb crust.
• Smoked Paprika: For a smoky undertone, consider adding smoked paprika to the herb mix.

Herb Alternatives:

• Oregano Touch: Swap out the basil for fresh oregano for a Mediterranean taste.
• Marjoram Magic: Another alternative to basil, marjoram brings a sweet pine and citrus flavor.
• Parsley Freshness: Add chopped flat-leaf parsley to the rub for a fresh, slightly peppery note.

Sauce Pairings:

• Red Wine Reduction: A rich sauce that reduces red wine, beef broth, and some shallots.
• Creamy Horseradish Sauce: A mix of horseradish, sour cream, and chives for a tangy complement.
• Blue Cheese Butter: Melted on top while the prime rib rests, this adds a creamy and tangy flavor.

Marinade Twists:

• Soy & Honey: A soy sauce, honey, and garlic mix can be used as a marinade before grilling for an Asian-inspired twist.
• Balsamic Glaze: Balsamic vinegar reduction with a touch of brown sugar can be brushed on the prime rib during the last few minutes of grilling for a sweet and tangy crust.

Crust Variations:

• Mustard Crusted: Brush your prime rib with Dijon mustard before applying the herb mix for a tangy crust.
• Parmesan Crusted: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the herb mixture for a cheesy and crispy crust.