Crockpot Beef Tenderloin: The Best Slow Cooker Shortcut

Crockpot Beef Tenderloin is the ultimate recipe for effortless cooking with unbelievable results. With just 25 minutes of prep, your slow cooker handles the rest, transforming a few simple ingredients into a tender, savory masterpiece. Perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want to impress without the stress.

I stumbled upon this easy crockpot beef recipe while experimenting with ways to make restaurant-quality meals at home without spending my whole evening in the kitchen. Traditional oven-roasted tenderloin takes hours and lots of monitoring, but with this slow cooker trick, you get equally juicy, perfectly cooked beef with almost zero babysitting required. Trust me, this will become your go-to recipe for anything from family dinners to special occasions.

Why This Crockpot Beef Tenderloin Is a Game-Changer

• Hands-off cooking: After a quick sear, the slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to prep sides or just relax.
• Perfectly tender meat: The moist, slow cooking method ensures every bite melts in your mouth.
• Time-saving: Traditional roasted beef tenderloin can take over 2 hours; this method cuts active time to just 25 minutes!
• Failsafe temperature control: Cooking low and slow helps you achieve that perfect medium-rare every time.
• Impressive presentation: Serve sliced with a rich, buttery Béarnaise sauce that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Crockpot Beef Tenderloin

To make this slow cooker beef tenderloin, you don’t need fancy gadgets—just these basics:

• Slow cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker works best for a 3-pound tenderloin. Look for one with a “low” and “keep warm” setting.
• Meat thermometer: Crucial for that perfect doneness (aim for 135°F for medium-rare).
• Large skillet: You’ll need a heavy skillet to sear the tenderloin before putting it in the crockpot.
• Whisk: A sturdy whisk makes creating the Béarnaise sauce easy and foolproof.

Simple Ingredients for Crockpot Beef Tenderloin

The beauty of this flavorful beef tenderloin in a crockpot is that it uses pantry staples with a few fresh additions:

• Beef tenderloin: A 3-pound center cut is ideal. Trim and tie it for even cooking.
• Butter: You’ll use both softened and melted butter for the rub and Béarnaise sauce.
• Garlic & rosemary: Fresh aromatics that enhance the beef’s natural flavor.
• Dijon mustard & tarragon: Essential for the Béarnaise sauce’s signature tang and herbaceousness.

Crockpot Beef Tenderloin Recipe Details

• Servings: 6 people
• Prep: 25 minutes
• Cook: 6 hours
• Total: 6 hours 25 minutes

Crockpot Beef Tenderloin Ingredients

• 3 pounds center cut beef tenderloin, trimmed and tied
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (1/2 stick)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced rosemary
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced shallot
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)
• 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, minced (or 1 1/2 teaspoons dried)
• 1/2 lemon, juiced (optional)

How to Make Crockpot Beef Tenderloin

1. Generously season the tenderloin with salt and pepper.
2. Mix softened butter, garlic, and rosemary in a small bowl. Rub this mixture evenly over the beef.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef on all sides. Place the seared tenderloin in your slow cooker and pour in the beef broth.
4. Cook on low for 1 1/2-4 hours, checking regularly after 1 1/2 hours, until the internal temperature reads 135°F for medium-rare.
5. Let the beef rest under foil for 10 minutes before slicing into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
6. To prepare the sauce, combine white vinegar, shallots, and garlic in a saucepan. Simmer until reduced by half.
7. Whisk in Dijon mustard and egg yolks, then slowly drizzle in melted butter, whisking constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Remove from heat and stir in tarragon and optional lemon juice. Season to taste.
9. Serve slices of tenderloin topped with Béarnaise sauce.

Jake’s Tips for the Best Crockpot Beef Tenderloin

• Pre-sear the beef: It’s worth the extra step for flavor-packed, browned crust.
• Use a thermometer: A reliable meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness every time.
• Don’t skip the resting period: Letting the meat rest locks in juices, so you don’t lose them when slicing.
• Make sauce ahead: Béarnaise sauce reheats beautifully, so prep it while the beef cooks.
• Freeze leftovers: Slices freeze well; reheat with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

Easy Crockpot Beef Tenderloin Variations

• Herb crust: Mix in thyme or sage with the garlic butter for a flavor twist.
• Wine sauce: Swap the beef broth for red wine for a rich, glossy finish.
• Peppercorn crust: Roll the tenderloin in crushed peppercorns before searing for bold flavor.
• Asian-inspired: Use soy sauce and ginger instead of rosemary and garlic for a fresh take.

Crockpot Beef Tenderloin FAQs

What’s the best cut for slow cooker beef tenderloin?

A center-cut beef tenderloin is perfect. Look for one that’s trimmed and tied for even cooking.

Can I skip searing the beef?

While you can, I highly recommend searing. It locks in juices and adds rich, caramelized flavor.

How do I avoid overcooking?

Use a meat thermometer and start checking after 1 1/2 hours. Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare.

Can I make the Béarnaise sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store it in the fridge and reheat gently over low heat. Whisk in a splash of water if it thickens too much.

What if I don’t have fresh tarragon?

Dried works just as well! Use 1 1/2 teaspoons instead of the fresh measurement.

This Crockpot Beef Tenderloin recipe is proof you can enjoy fine-dining quality meals at home without the hassle. Whether it’s a holiday spread or a cozy family dinner, this dish is guaranteed to shine. What’s your favorite kitchen shortcut? Share in the comments below or tag me when you try this out!