Description:
Chateaubriand is a luxurious French dish featuring a thick-cut beef tenderloin roasted to perfection and served with a rich sauce, often Béarnaise or red wine reduction. Originally named after the 19th-century French writer François-René de Chateaubriand, this dish is synonymous with fine dining and is ideal for special occasions. The meat is known for its buttery texture and incredible tenderness. Follow this step-by-step recipe to prepare the ultimate Chateaubriand steak at home.


Chateaubriand Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
- 1 (16-24 oz) center-cut beef tenderloin (Chateaubriand cut)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
For the Red Wine Reduction Sauce:
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Steak
- Take the beef tenderloin out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature.
- Pat the steak dry and season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the Chateaubriand
- Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat.
- Sear the steak for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Lower the heat to medium, add butter, thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Baste the steak with melted butter for 2 minutes.
3. Roast to Perfection
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
- Cook for 10-15 minutes for medium-rare (internal temp: 125°F/52°C).
- Remove from the oven, tent with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes.
4. Make the Red Wine Reduction Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté shallots until soft.
- Pour in red wine and simmer for 5 minutes until reduced by half.
- Add beef broth, Dijon mustard, and stir well. Simmer until thickened.
- Optional: Stir in heavy cream for a silkier texture.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the Chateaubriand into thick medallions.
- Drizzle with red wine reduction sauce and serve with roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables.