Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Horseradish Cream

DifficultyBeginner

Elevate your appetizer game with these elegant Beef Tenderloin Crostini, featuring juicy seared beef tenderloin slices atop golden toasted baguette, finished with a tangy horseradish cream. Perfect for cocktail parties, holiday spreads, or upscale gatherings.

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Yields24 Servings
Prep Time25 minsTotal Time25 mins
Makes 24 crostini
For the Crostini
 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds (about 24 slices)
 3 tbsp olive oil
 1 clove garlic, halved
For the Beef
 1 lb beef tenderloin (or filet mignon tail), trimmed
 1 tbsp olive oil
 Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper
 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
For the Horseradish Cream
 ½ cup sour cream or crème fraîche
 1 ½ tbsp prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
 1 tsp Dijon mustard
 1 tsp lemon juice
 Salt & pepper to taste
Garnish
 Microgreens, chives, or arugula
 Flaky sea salt (optional)
Prepare Crostini
1
  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil on both sides.

  • Toast for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.

  • While warm, rub one side lightly with the cut garlic for a subtle flavor boost. Set aside to cool.

Cook the Beef
2
  • Let beef tenderloin come to room temperature (about 20 minutes).

  • Season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs if using.

  • Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over high heat. Add oil.

  • Sear the tenderloin for ~2–3 minutes per side, including the ends, until nicely browned.

  • Transfer to a 400°F oven and roast for ~8–12 minutes (or until internal temp is 125°F for medium-rare).

  • Rest beef for at least 10 minutes, then slice very thinly.

Make Horseradish Cream
3
  • In a small bowl, combine sour cream, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.

  • Mix well and season to taste. Chill until ready to use.

Assemble
4
  • Spoon a dollop of horseradish cream onto each crostini.

  • Top with a thin slice of beef tenderloin.

  • Garnish with microgreens or chives. Add flaky salt for an extra finish, if desired.

Pairing Suggestions
5
  • Wine:

    • Red: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, or Merlot

    • White (for contrast): Oaked Chardonnay or a bold Viognier

  • Cocktail:

    • Classic Manhattan or an Old Fashioned (the smoky depth pairs beautifully)

  • Cheese Board Add-On:

    • Serve alongside blue cheese, aged cheddar, and grainy mustard.

Tips & Notes
6
  • Don’t overcook the tenderloin — It should be just pink in the center. Use a thermometer for precision.

  • Chill ahead — You can cook the beef a few hours ahead and slice it just before serving.

  • Alternative base: Use mini potato rösti or polenta squares for a gluten-free twist.

  • Extra heat? Add a touch of wasabi or chili oil to the cream for a modern kick.

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Ingredients

Makes 24 crostini
For the Crostini
 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds (about 24 slices)
 3 tbsp olive oil
 1 clove garlic, halved
For the Beef
 1 lb beef tenderloin (or filet mignon tail), trimmed
 1 tbsp olive oil
 Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper
 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
For the Horseradish Cream
 ½ cup sour cream or crème fraîche
 1 ½ tbsp prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
 1 tsp Dijon mustard
 1 tsp lemon juice
 Salt & pepper to taste
Garnish
 Microgreens, chives, or arugula
 Flaky sea salt (optional)
Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Horseradish Cream