Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Parmesan Cream Sauce
Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Parmesan Cream Sauce is an elegant appetizer that combines tender, juicy beef with a rich and velvety Parmesan cream sauce atop crisp toasted baguette slices, creating a perfect balance of indulgence and sophistication. Ideal for entertaining or a special treat, this recipe is simple to prepare yet impresses with gourmet flavors and textures.
- Author: Julia
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 crostini 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking, Searing
- Cuisine: Italian Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free Optional
Beef Tenderloin
- 1 lb high-quality beef tenderloin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
Bread
- 1 baguette or Italian bread, sliced into thin even pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
Parmesan Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Garnishes and Herbs
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
- Prepare the Beef Tenderloin: Season the beef tenderloin with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until a golden crust forms, then cook to your preferred doneness. Remove from heat and let rest to retain juiciness before thinly slicing.
- Toast the Baguette Slices: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush each baguette slice with olive oil. Arrange on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens to coat the crostini nicely.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread a spoonful of Parmesan cream sauce on each toasted baguette slice. Top with a few slices of the tender beef tenderloin. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme for color and freshness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture and tender beef. Pairs beautifully with a glass of medium-bodied red wine.
Notes
- Rest the beef after cooking to keep it juicy and tender when sliced.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and richer flavor.
- Monitor the bread carefully while toasting to avoid burning or bitterness.
- Adjust the thickness of the cream sauce by simmering longer for thicker or adding extra cream for lighter texture.
- Serve crostini immediately to preserve crunch and optimal flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 crostini
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: Beef crostini, Parmesan cream sauce, appetizer, party starter, elegant appetizer, easy gourmet recipe