Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe

Published: July 14, 2025

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The homemade Honey BBQ sauce adds a delightful sweet and spicy kick that elevates the beef to new heights.
Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for novice cooks and busy home chefs alike.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.
Juicy Results: Grilling ensures that the beef stays moist and flavorful, making every bite heavenly.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the marinade’s sweetness or spice level to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having the essential equipment will help ensure that your grilling experience goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Ziplock bag
Meat thermometer
Grill brush
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: The heart of this recipe; it provides the high heat needed for perfect charring.
Meat thermometer: Ensures your beef reaches the optimal temperature for safety and juiciness.
Grill brush: Keeps your grill grates clean, ensuring great flavor without unwanted residue.

Ingredients

For the Beef

2 beef tenderloins (1 ½ to 2 pounds total)
1 cup barbecue sauce (plus additional for serving)
salt and pepper

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Place the tenderloins in a large ziplock bag.
Cover with the BBQ sauce.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare for Grilling

Remove the tenderloins from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling.
Preheat your grill by lighting all burners on high for about 10 minutes.
Clean the cooking grates with a grill brush.
Lightly oil the grates using tongs and a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil.

Step 3: Grill the Beef

Remove the beef from the BBQ sauce; discard any remaining sauce in the bag.
Place the tenderloins on the hot side of the grill.
Season generously with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook, turning occasionally until all sides are nicely charred.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

Once browned on all sides, move the beef to a cooler side of the grill.
Continue cooking covered until it registers 145°F on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part, about 5-10 minutes.

Step 5: Resting Time

Transfer cooked tenderloin to a carving board.
Tent lightly with foil and let rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Step 6: Serve

Slice your perfectly grilled BBQ beef tenderloin and serve with additional BBQ sauce if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe

Serving grilled BBQ beef tenderloin can elevate any gathering or family dinner. With a few simple additions, you can create a delicious and visually appealing meal that everyone will love.

Pair with Classic Sides

Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw complements the rich flavors of the beef.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrients to your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic summer side that pairs beautifully with BBQ flavors.

Create a Festive Platter

Cheese Board: Incorporate assorted cheeses, nuts, and fruits for an appetizer before the main course.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up extra BBQ sauce.
Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad provides a hearty side that balances the dish’s sweetness.

Add Dipping Sauces

Extra BBQ Sauce: Serve additional sauce on the side for those who like extra flavor.
Chimichurri Sauce: This herb-based sauce adds a fresh twist to your tenderloin.

How to Perfect Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe

Getting your grilled BBQ beef tenderloin just right requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure a juicy and flavorful result.

Marinate Properly: For maximum flavor, marinate your beef overnight in the homemade honey BBQ sauce.
Bring to Room Temperature: Allowing the tenderloins to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling helps them cook evenly.
Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill is essential for achieving those perfect grill marks and locking in juices.
Use an Instant-Read Thermometer: Check for doneness by inserting a thermometer into the thickest part; aim for 145°F for medium-rare.
Let It Rest: Allowing the beef to rest after grilling helps redistribute juices for a more flavorful bite.
Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain ensures each slice is tender and easy to chew.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe

Complementing your grilled BBQ beef tenderloin with delightful side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some top suggestions:

Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans add depth to your plate.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a comforting classic that pairs well with grilled meats.
Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a crispy texture alongside juicy beef.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds elegance and flavor without overpowering the main dish.
Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs enhances the overall meal while maintaining simplicity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Grilled BBQ Beef Tenderloin Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Over-marinating: Marinating for too long can make the beef mushy. Stick to 4 hours or overnight for optimal flavor without compromising texture.
Skipping room temperature: Starting with cold meat can lead to uneven cooking. Always set your tenderloins out for 30 minutes before grilling.
Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking on a grill that’s too hot or too cold will affect the doneness and flavor. Preheat your grill properly and monitor temperatures.
Not using a thermometer: Relying solely on cooking time can result in undercooked or overcooked beef. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness at 145°F.
Neglecting resting time: Cutting into the tenderloin immediately after cooking causes juices to escape. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Grilled BBQ beef tenderloin can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Grilled BBQ Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Wrap the cooked tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled BBQ Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the beef in a baking dish covered with foil. Heat until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Slice the beef and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through.
Stovetop: Place sliced beef in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth. Cover and heat until warmed, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

You can substitute other cuts like ribeye or sirloin, but adjust cooking times as they may vary in thickness and tenderness.

What is the best way to serve grilled BBQ beef tenderloin?

Serve it sliced on a platter with additional barbecue sauce on the side, paired with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I ensure my grilled BBQ beef tenderloin is juicy?

Proper marination and resting are key. The marinade adds flavor and moisture, while resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the beef ahead of time and grill it when ready. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or entertaining guests.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled BBQ Beef Tenderloin Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion, from summer barbecues to weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding different herbs or spices to your marinade, or by serving it with your favorite sides. Try this recipe today and enjoy its mouthwatering flavors!

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