Beef tenderloin is a fantastic choice for a special occasion meal. It’s elegant, delicious, and sure to impress your guests. But when planning a dinner party, figuring out how much to buy can be tricky. How much beef tenderloin do you need for 12 adults? Let’s break it down to ensure you have just the right amount for a satisfying and memorable meal.
Contents
Understanding Beef Tenderloin Portions
The general rule of thumb is to plan for about 6 to 8 ounces of beef tenderloin per adult. This is a good starting point, but several factors can influence the ideal amount.
* **Appetite:** Consider your guests’ appetites. Do you know they tend to eat larger portions, or are they more likely to have smaller servings?
* **Side Dishes:** The number and richness of your side dishes play a significant role. If you’re serving several hearty sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a substantial salad, you can lean towards the lower end of the portion size.
* **Other Courses:** Are you planning on appetizers or a dessert? If so, your guests might not eat as much of the main course.
* **Bone-in vs. Boneless:** Beef tenderloin is typically sold boneless. Bone-in options require accounting for the bone’s weight, which isn’t edible. Since tenderloin is usually boneless, this isn’t a concern.
Calculating the Right Amount
Based on the standard portion size of 6 to 8 ounces per person, here’s how to calculate the amount of beef tenderloin you’ll need for 12 adults:
* **Lower End (6 ounces):** 12 adults x 6 ounces = 72 ounces. Convert ounces to pounds: 72 ounces / 16 ounces per pound = 4.5 pounds.
* **Higher End (8 ounces):** 12 adults x 8 ounces = 96 ounces. Convert ounces to pounds: 96 ounces / 16 ounces per pound = 6 pounds.
Therefore, for 12 adults, you’ll need approximately 4.5 to 6 pounds of beef tenderloin.
Adjusting for Different Factors
While 4.5 to 6 pounds is a solid estimate, consider these adjustments:
* **Generous Portions:** If your guests have hearty appetites or you want to ensure leftovers, aim for 6 pounds.
* **Multiple Courses and Sides:** If you’re serving appetizers, a rich dessert, and several substantial side dishes, 4.5 pounds might be sufficient.
* **Age Range:** If some of your guests are children, you can slightly reduce the total amount.
Buying Tips
* **Quality Matters:** Choose high-quality beef tenderloin for the best flavor and tenderness. Look for USDA Prime or Choice grades.
* **Trimmed vs. Untrimmed:** Beef tenderloin can be purchased trimmed (also called “peeled”) or untrimmed. Trimmed tenderloin has had most of the fat and silver skin removed, saving you preparation time. Untrimmed tenderloin is less expensive but requires more work.
* **Buy Ahead:** Beef tenderloin can be purchased a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
* **Check the Date:** Ensure the “sell by” or “use by” date is still valid.
Serving Suggestions
Beef tenderloin is incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving suggestions:
* **Roasted:** Roasting is a classic way to cook beef tenderloin. Season it simply with salt, pepper, and herbs, and roast it to your desired level of doneness.
* **Grilled:** Grilling adds a smoky flavor to beef tenderloin. Marinate it beforehand for extra flavor.
* **Pan-Seared:** Pan-searing creates a beautiful crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
* **Sauces:** Pair beef tenderloin with a rich sauce like béarnaise, red wine reduction, or a creamy horseradish sauce.
What to Do with Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover beef tenderloin, here are some delicious ways to use it:
* **Sandwiches:** Thinly sliced beef tenderloin makes excellent sandwiches.
* **Salads:** Add it to salads for a protein boost.
* **Stir-fries:** Use it in stir-fries for a quick and easy meal.
* **Beef Stroganoff:** Transform it into a luxurious beef stroganoff.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
* **Q: Can I buy beef tenderloin frozen?**
* A: Yes, you can buy beef tenderloin frozen. Make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
* **Q: How long can I store raw beef tenderloin in the refrigerator?**
* A: Raw beef tenderloin can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
* **Q: What temperature should I cook beef tenderloin to?**
* A: The internal temperature depends on your desired level of doneness:
* Rare: 125-130°F
* Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
* Medium: 135-140°F
* Medium-Well: 140-145°F
* Well-Done: 145°F and above
* **Q: Should I let the beef tenderloin rest after cooking?**
* A: Yes, letting the beef tenderloin rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result.
Conclusion
Calculating how much beef tenderloin to buy for 12 adults doesn’t have to be stressful. By considering factors like appetite, side dishes, and the cut of meat, you can confidently purchase the right amount. Remember, aiming for 4.5 to 6 pounds is a great starting point, and a little extra is always better than not enough! Enjoy your delicious and perfectly portioned beef tenderloin meal.