Beef Tenderloin Crostini
Beef Tenderloin Crostini is an elegant and easy-to-make appetizer featuring tender, juicy beef atop crunchy toasted bread with flavorful cheeses, fresh herbs, and vibrant toppings. Perfect for parties or sophisticated snacks, this recipe balances rich, savory flavors with fresh and sweet elements to delight every palate.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 crostini 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking and Searing
- Cuisine: American / European Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free option (use gluten-free bread)
Beef Tenderloin
- 8 oz beef tenderloin slices, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme), finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing beef)
Bread Base
- 1 baguette or crusty bread, cut into 1/2-inch slices
- Olive oil, for brushing bread
- 1 clove garlic, halved, for rubbing toasted bread
Cheese and Toppings
- Goat cheese or blue cheese or mozzarella (approximately 4 oz total), softened for spreading
- Fresh arugula (handful)
- Caramelized onions (1/4 cup)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
Condiments and Extras (Optional)
- Mustard (Dijon or whole grain), as desired
- Horseradish sauce, as desired
- Chili flakes or spicy aioli (for a spicy kick)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, chives, microgreens)
- Fig jam or honey (for sweet and savory variation)
- Prepare the Beef Tenderloin: Thinly slice the beef tenderloin and season lightly with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs. Heat olive oil in a hot skillet and sear the beef slices quickly until just cooked through, maintaining a tender and juicy texture.
- Toast the Bread: Cut the baguette into 1/2-inch rounds. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil, then toast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) or on a skillet until golden and crisp.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: While the bread is still warm, rub each piece with a halved clove of garlic to impart subtle aroma. Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme over the crostini.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread a layer of your chosen cheese or condiment such as mustard or horseradish on each toasted bread slice. Top with a slice of seared beef tenderloin, then add fresh toppings such as arugula, caramelized onions, cherry tomatoes, and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
- Serve Immediately: Arrange the crostini on a serving platter, garnish with fresh herbs, and sprinkle with sea salt or freshly ground black pepper. Serve while the bread is crisp and the beef is warm for optimal taste and texture.
Notes
- Choose high-quality, fresh beef tenderloin for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Do not overcook the beef; sear it quickly on high heat to maintain juiciness.
- Toast the bread properly to ensure it stays crisp under toppings.
- Balance savory beef with tangy or sweet elements like mustard, jam, or honey to avoid heaviness.
- Prepare toppings in advance to streamline assembly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 crostini
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: beef crostini, appetizers, finger foods, easy appetizers, tenderloin recipes, party snacks, elegant starters