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Cracker Barrel Grilled Tenderloin

Helen T. Patterson
Cracker Barrel Grilled Tenderloin is a flavorful and tender beef dish that’s simple yet elegant.
With a perfectly seasoned tenderloin grilled to perfection, this recipe brings the classic Cracker Barrel taste right into your home.
The beef is marinated with olive oil, fresh herbs, garlic powder, and onion powder, then grilled to juicy perfection.
Serve it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Grill (gas or charcoal) – for grilling the tenderloin
  • 1 Meat thermometer – for checking doneness
  • 1 Sharp knife – for trimming the tenderloin
  • 1 Tongs – for turning the tenderloin while grilling
  • 1 Basting brush (optional) – for applying marinades or butter
  • 1 Aluminum foil (optional) – for resting the meat

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 to 2 lbs beef tenderloin
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary chopped
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme chopped

Optional:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter for basting

Optional:

  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar for glazing

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tenderloin:

  • Begin by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the beef tenderloin using a sharp knife.
    Pat the meat dry with paper towels.

Marinate the Tenderloin:

  • Drizzle the olive oil over the tenderloin, then rub it evenly on all sides.
    Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the meat, and rub the fresh rosemary and thyme into the surface.
    If you have time, marinate the beef for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
    If short on time, proceed to grilling immediately.

Preheat the Grill:

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals for indirect heat.

Grill the Tenderloin:

  • Place the tenderloin on the grill and sear it on each side for 4-5 minutes, creating a nice crust.
    After searing, move the tenderloin to an area of indirect heat (or lower the temperature for a gas grill) and continue to grill for 15-20 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness.
    Use a meat thermometer to check for the following temperatures:
  • Medium-rare: 130-135°F
  • Medium: 140-145°F
  • Well-done: 150°F

Rest the Meat:

  • Once the tenderloin reaches your desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes.
    This ensures that the juices redistribute within the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.

Serve and Enjoy:

  • After resting, slice the tenderloin into thick, juicy pieces.
    Serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or fresh bread.
    Optionally, drizzle with melted butter or balsamic glaze before serving.

Notes

  • Marinating: For best results, marinate the tenderloin for at least 30 minutes. You can also marinate it overnight for more intense flavor.
  • Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting period after grilling! Allowing the meat to rest helps retain its juices.
  • Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated properly to avoid uneven cooking. Using a thermometer to check the doneness is key to achieving your preferred level of doneness.
  • Variation: For a slightly different flavor, add a touch of balsamic vinegar towards the end of grilling for a tangy glaze.
Keyword Cracker Barrel Grilled Tenderloin