Beef tenderloin is a luxurious centerpiece, perfect for an unforgettable Christmas dinner. This cut of beef is known for its tenderness, rich flavor, and elegant presentation. When cooked to perfection, it becomes a show-stopping main dish that can impress your guests and set the tone for a festive holiday meal served with Christmas dinner sides.
From creamy mashed potatoes to vibrant winter salads, we’ll cover a range of flavors and textures to balance the richness of the beef. We’ll also highlight decadent sauces, bread, wine pairings, and desserts to ensure your Christmas dinner is one to remember.
Let’s create the perfect menu to complement your beef tenderloin!
Classic Christmas dinner sides for Beef Tenderloin
When it comes to a holiday meal, classic side dishes are always a crowd-pleaser. These traditional options pair beautifully with the robust flavors of beef tenderloin and provide the comfort and nostalgia that guests crave during the holiday season.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a staple of any Christmas dinner table. They add color, texture, and a touch of sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the savory beef tenderloin. Here are a few standout options:
Rosemary-Infused Carrots
Carrots roasted with fresh rosemary provide a fragrant and earthy accompaniment to beef tenderloin. The slight sweetness of the carrots complements the savory notes of the beef, while the rosemary adds a festive aroma.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the carrots with olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a classic holiday vegetable, and roasting them with balsamic vinegar adds a deliciously tangy twist. The slight bitterness of the sprouts is balanced by the sweet, caramelized balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through for even cooking.
Garlic-Parmesan Asparagus
Asparagus roasted with garlic and Parmesan cheese brings a delightful crunch and umami flavor that pairs beautifully with beef tenderloin.
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the asparagus with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 12-15 minutes. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
No Christmas dinner is complete without mashed potatoes. Their rich, creamy texture provides the perfect contrast to the firm, tender beef tenderloin. Here are a few delicious variations:
Traditional Mashed Potatoes
Simple yet satisfying, traditional mashed potatoes are a timeless favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Garlic-Herb Mashed Potatoes
Adding garlic and fresh herbs takes classic mashed potatoes to the next level.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes until tender.
- In a saucepan, heat milk, butter, and garlic until fragrant.
- Mash the potatoes with the milk mixture and stir in parsley. Season to taste.
Truffle Mashed Potatoes
For a luxurious twist, add truffle oil to your mashed potatoes. This gourmet addition pairs beautifully with beef tenderloin.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons truffle oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes until tender.
- Mash with heavy cream, butter, and truffle oil until smooth. Season to taste.
Green Beans Almondine
Green beans almondine is a classic French dish featuring sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds. The crunch of the almonds and the fresh flavor of the green beans create a light, balanced side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath.
- In a skillet, melt the butter and toast the almonds until golden.
- Add the green beans, lemon zest, and juice. Sauté for 5 minutes and season to taste.
Let’s move on to the next part of the article, covering Decadent Sauces to Elevate Beef Tenderloin and Elegant Salads for a Balanced Plate.
Decadent Sauces to Elevate Beef Tenderloin and Christmas dinner sides
A perfectly cooked beef tenderloin deserves a sauce that enhances its flavors. Sauces add layers of taste, moisture, and sophistication to the dish. Here are three decadent sauces that pair beautifully with beef tenderloin, making your Christmas dinner truly special.
Horseradish Cream
Horseradish cream adds a tangy, spicy kick that contrasts wonderfully with the richness of beef tenderloin.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine sour cream, horseradish, lemon juice, and mustard.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Garnish with chives.
Peppercorn Sauce
Peppercorn sauce is a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy option that pairs perfectly with the tender beef.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons black peppercorns, crushed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons brandy or cognac (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and toast the crushed peppercorns.
- Add the brandy and cook until it evaporates (if using).
- Add beef broth and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and cook until the sauce thickens. Season with salt.
Elegant Salads as Christmas dinner sides for a Balanced Plate
A crisp, refreshing salad provides a perfect counterpoint to the richness of beef tenderloin. These elegant salads add color, texture, and balance to your Christmas dinner plate.
Arugula and Pear Salad
This salad combines the peppery taste of arugula with the sweet, juicy flavor of pears for a light and festive side dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted
- ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, toss arugula, pear slices, and walnuts.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Top with shaved Parmesan before serving.
Classic Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad is a timeless choice that offers a creamy, tangy dressing and crunchy croutons.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup croutons
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 lemon wedge (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing.
- Add croutons and grated Parmesan.
- Garnish with a squeeze of lemon before serving.
Winter Kale Salad
Kale is a nutrient-rich, sturdy green that holds up well to festive toppings like cranberries and pecans.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup toasted pecans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, massage kale with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
- Add cranberries and pecans.
- Season with salt and pepper and toss well.
Hearty Grain and Pasta as Christmas dinner sides
Adding a hearty grain or pasta dish to your Christmas dinner offers another layer of texture and richness to the meal. These dishes complement beef tenderloin beautifully and provide guests with a satisfying and filling option.
Risotto
Risotto is an elegant, creamy Italian rice dish that pairs perfectly with beef tenderloin. The creaminess of the risotto balances the richness of the beef, making it a luxurious side option.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, kept warm
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the Arborio rice and stir for 2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Pour in the white wine and cook until it evaporates.
- Add the broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the liquid to absorb before adding more.
- Continue until the rice is creamy and al dente (about 20 minutes).
- Stir in butter, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately.
Creamy Polenta
Polenta is a comforting, cornmeal-based dish that’s rich and velvety. It provides a warm and inviting contrast to beef tenderloin.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring water or broth to a boil in a saucepan.
- Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Reduce heat and simmer, stirring frequently, for 25-30 minutes.
- Stir in butter, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Serve hot.
Buttery Egg Noodles
Egg noodles are simple yet satisfying. Their soft, buttery texture complements the tender beef beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain.
- Toss with butter, parsley, salt, and pepper. Serve warm.
Festive Potato Variations as a Christmas dinner side
Potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be prepared in numerous ways to enhance a beef tenderloin dinner. Here are a few festive options that go beyond basic mashed potatoes.
Hasselback Potatoes
Hasselback potatoes are visually stunning and delicious. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect holiday side.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Slice each potato thinly, stopping before you cut all the way through.
- Brush with melted butter and olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until crispy. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes feature layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish is rich, comforting, and perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère or cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the potatoes in a buttered baking dish, seasoning each layer with salt, pepper, and garlic.
- Pour heavy cream over the potatoes and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Duchess Potatoes
Duchess potatoes are elegant, piped mounds of mashed potatoes that are baked until golden. They add a sophisticated touch to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 egg yolks
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes until tender. Mash with butter, cream, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Mix in egg yolks until smooth.
- Pipe the mixture onto a baking sheet in swirls.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes until golden.
Main Course Selections
When planning your Christmas dinner, the main dish often takes center stage. Consider classic options like roasted beef or a traditional turkey. If beef is on your menu, you’ll want to know:
- Why Roast Beef is a Perfect Choice for Christmas Dinner: This guide discusses why beef is a timeless and flavorful option for the holiday table.
- What Beef to Buy for Christmas Dinner: Learn the best cuts of beef to ensure a juicy and tender main course.
- How to Choose the Perfect Beef for a Memorable Christmas Dinner: Tips to help you select high-quality beef for your festive meal.
Offering creative vegetable sides, and adding appetizers or a cheese board sets the tone for a memorable evening. Whether you stick to traditional favorites or try something new, your guests will appreciate the thought and care that went into planning the meal.
This guide provides a variety of options to help you craft a Christmas dinner that is balanced, delicious, and festive. With careful planning and attention to detail, your beef tenderloin dinner is sure to be the highlight of the holiday season.
Ready to Create the Perfect Christmas Dinner?
Now that you have a complete guide on what to serve with beef tenderloin, it’s time to start planning your festive feast! Whether you’re sticking with classic sides, experimenting with creative dishes, or selecting the perfect wine and dessert pairings, you have everything you need for a memorable holiday meal.
🎄 Don’t wait—gather your ingredients, set your table, and create a Christmas dinner your family and friends will rave about! 🎄
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to share it with your fellow holiday hosts and let us know your favorite side dishes.
Merry Christmas, and happy cooking!