3 Oz Beef Tenderloin (Trimmed to 1/8" Fat, Prime Grade, Cooked, Broiled) contains 262 calories per serving. If you want to indulge in some red meat without going overboard on calories, tenderloin is a great option. It's both lean and delicious! Let's take a closer look at the nutritional profile of beef tenderloin and how to cook it perfectly every time.

The 3 oz serving of beef tenderloin is relatively low in fat, with only 8 grams per serving. It's also high in protein, providing 26 grams per serving. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate more protein into their diet. In addition, it's a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, all of which are essential for maintaining good health.

In this article, we'll go over everything you need to know about beef tenderloin so you can feel confident cooking and enjoying this delicious cut of meat at home.

Calories in Beef Tenderloin

As we mentioned earlier, a 3 oz serving of beef tenderloin contains 262 calories. This is relatively low compared to other cuts of beef, which can have upwards of 400 calories per serving. If you're trying to keep your caloric intake under control, opt for a smaller serving size or pair the beef tenderloin with lower-calorie sides like roasted vegetables or a light salad.

Fat Content of Beef Tenderloin

One of the main benefits of beef tenderloin is its low fat content. A 3 oz serving contains just 8 grams of fat, which is quite low compared to other cuts of beef. By trimming the fat to 1/8", you can reduce the fat content even further. This makes it a great option for those who are watching their fat intake or trying to eat a more heart-healthy diet.

Protein Content of Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin is a great source of protein. A 3 oz serving provides a whopping 26 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, as well as maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and skin. By incorporating beef tenderloin into your diet, you can get a significant portion of your daily protein needs in just one meal.

Vitamins and Minerals in Beef Tenderloin

Along with protein, beef tenderloin is also a good source of several vitamins and minerals. In particular, it's a great source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Iron is essential for preventing anemia and carrying oxygen throughout the body, while zinc is critical for immune function and wound healing. Vitamin B12 is essential for healthy nerve function and DNA synthesis.

Cooking Methods for Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin is a versatile cut of meat that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Here are a few popular cooking methods to try:

• Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the beef tenderloin for approximately 4-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
• Broiling: Preheat the broiler and place the beef tenderloin on a broiler pan. Broil for approximately 4-6 minutes per side, or until it's cooked to your liking.
• Roasting: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and roast the beef tenderloin for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Health Benefits of Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin offers several health benefits, including:

• High protein content for building and repairing tissues
• Low fat content for weight management and heart health
• Good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 for overall health and wellbeing

Quality Grading for Beef Tenderloin

The USDA grades beef based on several factors, including marbling, firmness, and color. The highest grade of beef is Prime, followed by Choice and Select. When purchasing beef tenderloin, look for Prime or Choice grades for the best quality meat.

Serving Size of Beef Tenderloin

The recommended serving size for beef tenderloin is 3-4 oz, or about the size of a deck of cards. This will provide approximately 200-300 calories, depending on how it's prepared and trimmed. Remember to pair beef tenderloin with a variety of colorful vegetables and whole grains for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Shelf Life of Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. After that, it should be cooked or frozen to prevent spoilage. To freeze beef tenderloin, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Popular Recipes for Beef Tenderloin

Here are a few delicious and easy recipes to try with beef tenderloin:

• Beef Tenderloin Steaks with Red Wine Sauce: This recipe features pan-seared beef tenderloin steaks drizzled with a savory red wine sauce.
• Beef Tenderloin with Mustard Sauce: This recipe features seared beef tenderloin topped with a tangy mustard sauce.
• Roasted Beef Tenderloin: This recipe features a simple yet delicious method for roasting beef tenderloin to perfection.