Beef tenderloin is the vital vacation meal, whether served as an appetizer or a supper centerpiece. Strategy on about 5 pounds of meat for every 12 guests.

Components
1 (5- to 7-lb.) beef tenderloin, trimmed

3 Tbsp. butter, softened

5 to 7 tsp. kosher salt

3/4 tsp. split black pepper

Instructions
Season beef tenderloin:
Preheat oven to 425 ° F. Place beef on a cake rack in a jelly-roll pan. Rub butter over beef, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Bake beef tenderloin:
Bake at 425 ° F for 25 to 35 minutes or up until a meat thermometer inserted into thickest portion signs up 135 ° F (medium rare).

Rest:
Cover loosely with aluminum foil; let stand 15 minutes before slicing