Beef tenderloin is often considered the crown jewel of beef cuts—tender, juicy, and perfect for special occasions. But when it comes time to buy, many home cooks and party planners wonder: How much does beef tenderloin cost per pound? In this guide, we’ll break down the current prices, factors that influence cost, and tips for getting the best value on this premium cut. Let’s dive in!
Contents
- 1 What Is Beef Tenderloin?
- 2 Average Price Per Pound for Beef Tenderloin
- 3 Factors That Affect Beef Tenderloin Prices
- 4 Trimmed vs. Untrimmed: What’s the Difference?
- 5 How Much Beef Tenderloin Should You Buy?
- 6 Savings Tips: How to Get the Best Value
- 7 Where to Buy Beef Tenderloin
- 8 Is Beef Tenderloin Worth the Price?
- 9 Frequently Asked Questions
- 10 The Bottom Line
What Is Beef Tenderloin?
Beef tenderloin comes from the loin area of the cow and is prized for its tenderness and mild flavor. It’s the cut used for filet mignon and Chateaubriand. Because it’s a small muscle that doesn’t get much exercise, it’s incredibly soft and lean.
Average Price Per Pound for Beef Tenderloin
The price of beef tenderloin can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, including where you shop, whether it’s trimmed or untrimmed, and if it’s graded as Choice or Prime. On average, here’s what you can expect to pay:
- Supermarkets (Choice grade, untrimmed): $10–$20 per pound
- Warehouse stores (Costco, Sam’s Club): $10–$15 per pound (often sold whole and untrimmed)
- Butcher shops or specialty stores (Prime grade, trimmed): $25–$35 per pound
- Online retailers (Prime or Wagyu): $30–$50+ per pound
These prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on location, season, and supply.
Factors That Affect Beef Tenderloin Prices
- Grade: USDA Prime is more expensive than Choice or Select because it has more marbling and flavor.
- Trim Level: Whole, untrimmed tenderloins are cheaper per pound but require more prep work. Fully trimmed (also called “Peeled” or “Peeled & Tied”) tenderloins are pricier due to labor costs.
- Source: Local butcher shops may charge more than big-box stores, but they often provide higher quality and better service.
- Organic/Grass-Fed: Expect to pay a premium for organic or grass-fed beef tenderloin.
- Time of Year: Prices often increase around holidays like Christmas and New Year’s when demand spikes.
Trimmed vs. Untrimmed: What’s the Difference?
If you’re shopping for beef tenderloin, you’ll notice options like “untrimmed,” “PSMO” (Peeled, Side Muscle On), “peeled,” and “center-cut.” Here’s what they mean:
- Untrimmed/PSMO: Comes with fat and silver skin attached. Cheaper but requires trimming at home (which means some weight loss).
- Peeled: Most fat and silver skin removed. Ready to cook but costs more.
- Center-Cut: The most uniform and desirable section—perfect for roasts or filet mignon steaks. Highest price per pound.
How Much Beef Tenderloin Should You Buy?
A good rule of thumb is to plan on about 1/2 pound (8 ounces) of trimmed beef tenderloin per person. If you’re buying untrimmed, consider purchasing a bit more (about 3/4 pound per person) to account for trimming loss.
Savings Tips: How to Get the Best Value
- Buy Whole Tenderloin: Purchasing a whole, untrimmed tenderloin and trimming it yourself can save you money—sometimes up to $10–$15 per pound compared to pre-trimmed cuts.
- Shop Sales: Look for holiday sales at supermarkets or warehouse clubs. Prices often drop before major holidays.
- Consider Warehouse Stores: Stores like Costco often offer competitive prices on bulk beef tenderloin.
- Ask Your Butcher: Sometimes local butchers will match or beat supermarket prices if you ask—plus they may trim it for free or a small fee.
- Freeze Extras: Beef tenderloin freezes well. If you find a good deal, buy extra and freeze individual portions for later.
Where to Buy Beef Tenderloin
- Supermarkets: Widely available, especially around holidays.
- Warehouse Clubs: Great for buying in bulk at lower prices.
- Local Butcher Shops: Often higher quality and custom cuts.
- Online Retailers: Convenient for specialty grades like Wagyu or grass-fed beef.
Is Beef Tenderloin Worth the Price?
This cut is definitely a splurge—but for many people, its tenderness and flavor make it worth every penny for special occasions. If you’re looking to impress guests at a holiday dinner or celebration, beef tenderloin is hard to beat. However, if you’re feeding a crowd on a budget, consider alternatives like top sirloin or whole strip loin roasts, which offer great flavor at a lower price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a whole beef tenderloin weigh?
- A whole beef tenderloin typically weighs between 4 to 6 pounds (untrimmed).
- Can I freeze beef tenderloin?
- Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Use within 6 months for best quality.
- Is it cheaper to buy beef tenderloin online?
- Not always—online retailers may charge more for shipping or premium grades. Compare prices locally first.
- What’s the best way to cook beef tenderloin?
- This cut is best roasted whole in the oven or grilled. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- How do I trim a whole beef tenderloin?
- You’ll need a sharp knife to remove the silver skin and excess fat. Plenty of online tutorials can help guide you through the process.
The Bottom Line
The cost of beef tenderloin per pound varies based on grade, trim level, source, and season—but with some smart shopping strategies, you can enjoy this luxurious cut without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just want to treat yourself, knowing what affects the price will help you get the best value possible.
If you’re looking for melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and want to make a memorable meal, beef tenderloin is always a showstopper!