If you’re looking for a truly irresistible appetizer that will wow your guests, then you absolutely need to try this Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe. Picture tender, juicy cubes of seared beef tenderloin sitting atop perfectly toasted baguette slices, all laced with a luscious, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that sings with flavor. This dish is the perfect marriage of textures and tastes, combining crispiness, creaminess, and meaty richness in each bite. Whether it’s a party, a special dinner, or just because you want to treat yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed showstopper you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short list fool you—each ingredient here is handpicked to bring out the best taste and texture in this elegant yet approachable dish. From the earthy richness of the beef to the fragrant garlic in the creamy sauce, these essentials combine for spectacular flavor harmony.
- 1 lb beef tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes: Choose a fresh, good-quality cut for tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps sear the beef to perfection and brush the crostini with a subtle fruity undertone.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The fundamental seasoning to enhance every element’s natural flavors.
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch slices (for crostini): Provides the ideal crunchy base for this layered delight.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Creates the lush base for a decadent garlic Parmesan cream sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the cream sauce with a wonderfully savory aroma and depth.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce, balancing the beef’s heartiness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, bringing nutty, salty notes that elevate the dish.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Offers a fresh burst of color and a mild herbal flair.
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish): Adds an aromatic, earthy touch if you want to get fancy with presentation and flavor.
How to Make Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crostini
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet, brushing both sides with olive oil, then seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toast them for roughly 8 to 10 minutes until they turn golden and delightfully crisp. This gives you the perfect crunchy base that will hold up beautifully under the tender beef and creamy sauce. Once done, set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Season your beef tenderloin cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and let them sear for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, giving them a beautiful brown crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Adjust cooking time if you prefer a different level of doneness. Once cooked to your liking, remove the beef and set it aside, saving the beefy pan juices for the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat—this will pick up all those tasty browned bits left behind from the beef. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into a velvety cream sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Crostini
Time to put it all together! Lay out the toasted crostini on a serving platter. Place a seared cube of beef tenderloin on each slice, then lavishly spoon the garlic Parmesan cream sauce right on top. Each bite will be a perfect balance of textures and flavors, from crisp to creamy to meaty.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your creation with a sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley and optionally add thyme leaves for that fresh, herbal pop. Serve immediately to ensure the crostini remain crisp and the flavors at their vibrant best. Watching your friends’ faces light up with each delicious bite is the best reward!
How to Serve Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh parsley and thyme really brighten up the rich and creamy profile of the dish. You can also experiment with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a few crunchy fried shallots for contrasting texture and flavors that will impress everyone.
Side Dishes
This crostini shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables. They provide fresh, light notes that complement the richness of the beef and creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant touch, serve these on a wooden charcuterie board alongside olives, nuts, and a selection of cheeses. Layering the crostini in a circular pattern or stacking them in tiers also makes a beautiful appetizer display for any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the crostini separate from the beef and cream sauce if you want to maintain the bread’s crunchiness and reassemble just before serving.
Freezing
While the individual elements can be frozen—cooked beef cubes and cream sauce freeze well—it’s best to freeze them separately. The toasted crostini, however, is best enjoyed fresh as freezing can make them soggy upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat the beef cubes gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to avoid drying them out. Warm the Parmesan cream sauce on the stove, stirring frequently until smooth. Toast the crostini briefly in the oven to regain some crispness before assembling.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of beef instead of tenderloin?
Absolutely! While beef tenderloin is preferred for its tenderness, you can use sirloin or ribeye, just be mindful of cooking times and doneness to ensure the beef remains juicy and tender.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
While this recipe centers on beef, you can swap the tenderloin for sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables and keep the creamy Parmesan sauce for a delicious vegetarian twist.
How can I make the Parmesan cream sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a bit longer to reduce further or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) gradually while stirring until your desired consistency is reached.
Can the crostini be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free baguette or sliced gluten-free bread and toast it as directed. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What wine pairs well with Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe?
A medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or a smooth Merlot complements the richness of the beef and creamy sauce without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe enough—it truly is one of those dishes that feels luxurious but comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients and steps. Whether you’re serving a crowd or indulging yourself, the combination of juicy beef, crispy crostini, and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is an unbeatable crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and prepare for lots of compliments and requests for the recipe!
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Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Garlic Bread Sandwich recipe features tender beef tenderloin cubes atop crispy garlic crostini slices, all smothered in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or an indulgent snack, this dish combines the crunch of toasted baguette slices with savory beef and a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, garnished with fresh herbs for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
For the Beef and Crostini:
- 1 lb beef tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch slices (for crostini)
For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crostini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Season the beef tenderloin cubes with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Crostini: Place the toasted crostini on a serving platter. Top each slice with a cooked beef tenderloin cube. Spoon the Parmesan cream sauce generously over the beef.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley and fresh thyme (if using) over the crostini for added flavor and garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh beef tenderloin for the best tenderness and flavor.
- You can adjust the amount of garlic in the sauce according to your preference.
- To make this recipe without beef, substitute with grilled chicken cubes.
- Serve immediately after assembling to maintain the crispness of the crostini.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a cream alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking and Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
