Macaroni with Tenderloin Sauce: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Craving Comfort Food That Feels Fancy? Try This Macaroni with Tenderloin Sauce!

Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly cooked macaroni, coated in a rich, savory sauce made with tenderloin that practically melts in your mouth. Sound dreamy? This isn’t just any mac and cheese – it’s an elevated experience that’s surprisingly easy to create at home. Get ready to impress yourself (and anyone you share it with)!

Why You’ll Love It

• The tenderloin sauce is incredibly flavorful and luxurious, adding a gourmet touch to a classic dish.
• It’s a surprisingly quick and easy recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for a special occasion.
• The macaroni is cooked to a perfect al dente texture that complements the richness of the sauce.
• It’s easily customizable – you can add your favorite veggies or cheeses to personalize the dish.
• This recipe transforms humble macaroni into a truly memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this macaroni with tenderloin sauce apart from other pasta recipes is the use of tenderloin, a premium cut of beef, to create the sauce. Unlike ground beef sauces, this tenderloin is first browned, then simmered in a flavorful sauce with wine and aromatic herbs which then is tenderized to perfection. This creates a depth of flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness you won’t find in your average mac and cheese. The final touch is the slow simmer, allowing all the flavors to meld together to create a truly special sauce.

Ingredient List

• 1 pound tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes (tenderloin provides incredible richness and tenderness)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (or beef broth for alcohol-free option)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 pound macaroni pasta
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the tenderloin cubes and brown on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Pour in the red wine (or beef broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and bring to a simmer.
5. Return the browned tenderloin to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 45 minutes, or until the tenderloin is very tender.
6. While the sauce is simmering, cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
7. Once the tenderloin is tender, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow sauce to simmer for 5 more minutes.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the tenderloin sauce. Toss to coat thoroughly.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to customize your macaroni with tenderloin sauce. Consider these options:

• Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy flavor.
• Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of simmering.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or Fontina.
• Roasted Red Peppers: Add roasted red peppers for a touch of sweetness and smokiness

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the tenderloin; do it in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
• Use good quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially with the tenderloin and cheese.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook a bit more in the sauce.
• Simmering the sauce on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the tenderloin to become incredibly tender.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use a different cut of beef?
  While tenderloin is ideal for tenderness, you could substitute with sirloin or top round, though you may need to simmer longer for tenderness.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving.
• Can I freeze this dish?
  It is best to freeze the sauce separately before combining it with the pasta. Cook and add pasta to reheated sauce.
• Can I use regular milk instead of heavy cream?
  While heavy cream gives the sauce its richness, you could use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as creamy.
• What can I serve with this macaroni and tenderloin?
  A simple side salad or steamed vegetables are great accompaniments to this hearty dish.

Variations and Customization Options

This recipe is a great base, and you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
• Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy sauce, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone along with the Parmesan cheese.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the tenderloin with hearty mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version, but you will lose the authentic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This macaroni with tenderloin sauce is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better when paired with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese before serving will elevate the presentation. It also goes well with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables. Consider serving it with a glass of dry red wine to complement the rich flavors.

Conclusion

Ready to ditch the boring weeknight dinners? This Macaroni with Tenderloin Sauce is your ticket to a comforting yet refined meal that everyone will love. With its rich flavors, tender meat, and easy prep, it’s perfect for both casual family meals and special occasions. Don’t just take our word for it – try it yourself and experience the magic! Share your photos with us and let us know how it turned out. We can’t wait to see your creations! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes!