Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin

If you’re looking for a dish that brings both warmth and joy to the table, then let me introduce you to my Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin. This recipe is a cherished favorite in our home, blending the rich flavors of beef with the sweet notes of apple butter. It’s perfect for those cozy family dinners or when you want to impress your friends at gatherings without spending all day in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. Just pop everything into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you enjoy your day. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready without much fuss.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of savory beef and sweet apple butter is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can set it and forget it while you tackle your day.
• Rich Flavor: The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully for a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make this delightful dish. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

• Beef Tenderloin
• Apple Butter
• Yellow Onion
• Garlic
• Beef Broth
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Salt
• Pepper
• Oil (for searing)

Variations

This Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin is flexible and open to adaptations based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a beef fan, try using chicken or turkey tenderloin instead for a lighter option.
• Add some heat: Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the glaze mixture.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to swap thyme and rosemary with other fresh herbs like sage or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Sweeten it up: Want more sweetness? Add chopped apples or dried cranberries into the slow cooker for extra texture and flavor.

How to Make Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef tenderloin. Season the meat generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This step is crucial as it adds flavor right into the meat itself.

Step 2: Sear the Beef (Optional)

For an extra layer of flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and sear the beef tenderloin for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. While this step is optional, I highly recommend it because searing caramelizes the outside, adding depth to every bite.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a bowl, mix together the apple butter, chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, thyme, and rosemary. This flavorful glaze is what makes our dish special; it balances savory and sweet in every scoop.

Step 4: Add to Slow Cooker

Place the seared beef tenderloin in the slow cooker. Pour the apple butter mixture over the top, ensuring it’s well coated. This will help keep the meat moist while it’s cooking.

Step 5: Cook

Cover and set your slow cooker to low. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender and reaches your desired doneness. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high for about 3-4 hours instead.

Step 6: Rest the Beef

Once cooked, remove the beef tenderloin from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. Resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat so that each slice remains juicy.

Step 7: Serve

Slice up that beautifully glazed beef and drizzle with any remaining apple butter glaze from the slow cooker. It’s simply divine served alongside mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, your Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin will turn out absolutely scrumptious!

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary bring vibrant flavor to the dish. They infuse the beef with an aromatic essence that dried herbs simply can’t match.
• Choose Quality Beef: Opt for a high-quality beef tenderloin for the best results. A well-marbled cut will yield more tenderness and flavor, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Don’t Skip the Searing: While optional, searing the beef before slow cooking locks in juices and adds depth of flavor. This extra step is worth it for that savory richness!
• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your slow cooker settings. Every appliance varies slightly, so adjust cooking time based on your specific device to achieve the perfect tenderness.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the beef to rest after cooking is crucial. This step ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a moist and flavorful tenderloin when sliced.

How to Serve Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin

Serving this dish can be just as enjoyable as making it! With its glossy glaze and succulent texture, it’s sure to impress at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate, complementing the rich flavors of the beef.
• Apple Slices: Thinly sliced apples placed around the beef not only enhance presentation but also echo the apple butter’s flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes are a perfect canvas for soaking up that delicious apple butter glaze. Their creamy texture balances beautifully with the savory notes of the beef.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts add a nice crunch and mild bitterness that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the apple butter glaze.
• Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic offer a fresh and vibrant side that complements the richness of the tenderloin without overpowering it.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a nutritious option that pairs nicely with both apple and beef flavors.

With these serving ideas in mind, you’re ready to delight your family or guests with a stunning meal featuring Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, and the flavors only get better as it sits. Here’s how to store and handle your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked beef tenderloin to cool completely before storing.
• Place the beef in an airtight container, ensuring it’s well sealed.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled beef tenderloin into portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen beef in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place slices in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth or water to keep them moist.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

Can I use other cuts of beef for the Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin?

Yes! While beef tenderloin offers tenderness, you can substitute it with cuts like sirloin or chuck roast. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as tougher cuts may need longer to become tender.

How do I adjust the seasoning in my Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin?

Feel free to customize the seasonings! You can add more herbs like oregano or parsley based on your taste preferences. Just remember that apple butter already has sweetness; balance accordingly with salt and pepper.

Is it necessary to sear the beef before slow cooking?

Searing is optional but recommended! It adds a deeper flavor to your dish. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step without sacrificing too much taste.

What can I serve alongside Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin?

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with sides that complement the sweet and savory flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re inspired to try this Savory Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin! It brings together comforting flavors that will surely impress family and friends alike. Enjoy making this easy yet delightful dish—your kitchen is about to smell amazing! Happy cooking!