Mary Berry’s Beef Fillet recipe is a showstopping dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a Sunday roast. This tender cut of beef is cooked to perfection, seasoned simply to enhance its natural flavor, and served with a rich and flavorful sauce. With its elegant presentation and delicious taste, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
What is Mary Berry Beef Fillet?
This dish features a whole beef fillet, seasoned and roasted until tender and juicy. It’s often paired with a luxurious sauce such as red wine reduction or creamy horseradish, making it an elegant centerpiece for any meal.
Other Popular Recipes
- Mary Berry Turkey Crown Gravy
- Mary Berry Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips
- Mary Berry Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Chestnuts
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Tender and Juicy: Perfectly cooked beef that melts in your mouth.
- Elegant Presentation: A showstopping main course.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple seasonings highlight the natural flavor.
- Versatile Pairing: Works with a variety of sides and sauces.
- Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or romantic meals.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Beef Fillet
For the Beef Fillet
- Beef Fillet (1.2-1.5kg): The star of the dish, trimmed and ready to cook.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For searing and roasting.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings to enhance the beef.
For the Sauce
- Red Wine (200ml): Adds depth and richness.
- Beef Stock (200ml): Creates the base of the sauce.
- Shallots (2, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and flavor.
- Butter (25g): For a glossy finish.
- Thyme (2 sprigs): Optional, for an aromatic touch.
- Cornflour (1 tsp, mixed with water): Optional, to thicken the sauce.
Equipment Needed
- Heavy-based frying pan
- Roasting tray
- Meat thermometer
- Saucepan
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Beef Fillet
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
Step 2: Prepare the beef fillet
Rub the beef fillet all over with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Sear the beef
Heat a heavy-based frying pan over high heat. Sear the beef fillet on all sides for 1-2 minutes per side until browned.
Step 4: Roast the beef
Transfer the seared beef to a roasting tray and place in the preheated oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare or adjust the time to your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy (medium-rare: 52°C/125°F).
Step 5: Rest the beef
Remove the beef from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 6: Make the sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and thyme and sauté until softened. Pour in the red wine and beef stock, then simmer until reduced by half. For a thicker sauce, whisk in the cornflour slurry.
Step 7: Slice and serve
Carve the beef fillet into thick slices and serve with the warm red wine sauce. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
What Goes Well With Mary Berry Beef Fillet
- Roast Potatoes: Crispy and golden for a perfect pairing.
- Steamed Vegetables: Asparagus, green beans, or broccoli add freshness.
- Yorkshire Puddings: A classic addition to a beef roast.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A comforting and rich side dish.
- Gravy or Horseradish Sauce: Adds depth and complements the beef’s flavor.
- Crisp Salad: For a light and refreshing contrast.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Beef Fillet
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures perfect doneness every time.
- Let It Rest: Resting the beef is crucial for retaining its juices.
- Sear for Flavor: Browning the beef adds depth and seals in moisture.
- Choose Good-Quality Beef: Opt for a well-marbled fillet for the best flavor.
- Make the Sauce Ahead: The sauce can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving.
Easy Variations of Mary Berry Beef Fillet
- Herb-Crusted Fillet: Add a crust of breadcrumbs mixed with fresh herbs and garlic.
- Garlic Butter Fillet: Top the beef with garlic butter during roasting.
- Spiced Fillet: Rub the beef with smoked paprika or cumin for a smoky flavor.
- Mushroom Sauce: Replace the red wine sauce with a creamy mushroom sauce.
- Peppercorn Sauce: Add crushed black peppercorns to the sauce for a classic twist.
Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Beef Fillet
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store sliced beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently: Warm in the oven at a low temperature to retain tenderness.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
FAQs
How do I ensure my beef fillet is cooked to perfection?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 52°C (125°F). Resting the beef for 15 minutes after roasting allows the juices to redistribute.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving, adding a splash of stock if needed to restore consistency.
What is the best way to slice a beef fillet?
Let the beef rest for at least 15 minutes after roasting. Use a sharp carving knife to slice it against the grain into thick slices for maximum tenderness.
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these cuts may cook faster than a whole beef fillet.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Beef Fillet is a timeless recipe that brings elegance and flavor to any meal. With its tender texture, rich sauce, and simple preparation, this dish is sure to be a favorite at your dining table. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy family dinner, it’s a recipe worth trying!
More By British Baking Recipes
- Mary Berry Turkey Crown Gravy
- Mary Berry Roasted Winter Vegetables
- Mary Berry Hollandaise Sauce
- Mary Berry Blue Cheese Dressing
- Jamie Oliver Turkey Crown
- Mary Berry Three Bean Salad
Mary Berry Beef Fillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: British
Description
This dish features a whole beef fillet, seasoned and roasted until tender and juicy. It’s often paired with a luxurious sauce such as red wine reduction or creamy horseradish, making it an elegant centerpiece for any meal.
Ingredients
For the Beef Fillet
- Beef Fillet (1.2-1.5kg): The star of the dish, trimmed and ready to cook.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For searing and roasting.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings to enhance the beef.
For the Sauce
- Red Wine (200ml): Adds depth and richness.
- Beef Stock (200ml): Creates the base of the sauce.
- Shallots (2, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and flavor.
- Butter (25g): For a glossy finish.
- Thyme (2 sprigs): Optional, for an aromatic touch.
- Cornflour (1 tsp, mixed with water): Optional, to thicken the sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
Step 2: Prepare the beef fillet
Rub the beef fillet all over with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Sear the beef
Heat a heavy-based frying pan over high heat. Sear the beef fillet on all sides for 1-2 minutes per side until browned.
Step 4: Roast the beef
Transfer the seared beef to a roasting tray and place in the preheated oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare or adjust the time to your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy (medium-rare: 52°C/125°F).
Step 5: Rest the beef
Remove the beef from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 6: Make the sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and thyme and sauté until softened. Pour in the red wine and beef stock, then simmer until reduced by half. For a thicker sauce, whisk in the cornflour slurry.
Step 7: Slice and serve
Carve the beef fillet into thick slices and serve with the warm red wine sauce. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
