Beef medallions make for an easy yet impressive dinner. These small, tender cuts of beef cook quickly and deliver big, bold flavor. But it can be hard to get the perfect balance of a crispy outside and a pink, juicy inside. Undercooking leaves raw, unpleasant meat while overcooking results in dry, chewy beef.
This complete guide will teach you how to roast beef medallions in the oven until they are juicy and tender.
What Are Beef Medallions?
Beef medallions go by several names like minute steaks, petite tenderloin, or beef tenderloin medallions Essentially, they are thin cuts of tenderloin, trimmed into portions around 2–3 ounces and 1–2 inches thick Their small size makes them perfect single servings.
Given their leanness, beef medallions cook fast. This makes them ideal for quick weeknight meals but achieving the right level of doneness is key
How Long to Cook Beef Medallions Based on Doneness
The cooking times will depend on how big your medallions are and how done you like them. Follow these guidelines for perfect results:
- Rare: 8-10 minutes
- Medium Rare: 10-12 minutes
- Medium: 12-15 minutes
- Medium Well: 15-18 minutes
- Well Done: 18-22 minutes
Always use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature rather than relying solely on time.
Beef Medallion Oven Temperatures
For the fastest cooking, roast at 425–450°F. Higher heat helps achieve a crispy sear while keeping the inside tender.
For more even cooking, start at a lower 350°F then finish at 450°F.
Test for Doneness with a Thermometer
Checking temperature is the only foolproof way to know your beef medallions are cooked correctly.
- Rare: 120-125°F
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Medium Well: 150-155°F
- Well Done: 160+°F
Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a medallion to get an accurate reading.
Handy Cooking Charts
For quick reference, use these oven roasting times based on the thickness of your medallions:
1-inch Thick Medallions
| Doneness | Cook Time at 425°F | Internal Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 6-8 minutes | 120-125°F |
| Medium Rare | 8-10 minutes | 130-135°F |
| Medium | 10-12 minutes | 140-145°F |
| Medium Well | 12-15 minutes | 150-155°F |
| Well Done | 15-18 minutes | 160+°F |
2-inch Thick Medallions
| Doneness | Cook Time at 425°F | Internal Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 8-10 minutes | 120-125°F |
| Medium Rare | 10-12 minutes | 130-135°F |
| Medium | 12-15 minutes | 140-145°F |
| Medium Well | 15-18 minutes | 150-155°F |
| Well Done | 18-22 minutes | 160+°F |
Seasoning and Cooking Tips
- Pat medallions dry then coat with oil to promote browning
- Use S&P along with garlic, thyme, rosemary, etc.
- Sear first in a hot pan for 1-2 minutes per side
- Roast in a 425°F oven on a wire rack set over a baking sheet
- Flip halfway through cooking for even browning
- Rest 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute
Side Dishes for Beef Medallions
What are the best side dishes and sauces to serve with oven-roasted beef medallions? Consider these flavorful options:
- Garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, demi-glace
- Roasted asparagus, chimichurri sauce
- Creamy polenta, broccoli rabe, balsamic glaze
- Pearl couscous salad, red wine reduction
- Twice baked potatoes, creamed spinach, horseradish cream
- Mushroom risotto, grilled tomatoes, red wine jus
With the right techniques, achieving perfect beef medallions is easy. Follow the step-by-step process for searing and roasting along with the cooking time charts. In no time, you’ll be enjoying tender, juicy medallions boasting crisp, browned edges and a mouthwatering pink center.
Cooking Beef Medallions with Chef Martin Bosley
FAQ
How long do you cook beef medallions in the oven?
The cooking time for beef medallions in the oven will depend on a few factors, including the thickness of the meat and your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare result, preheat your oven to 400°F and sear the medallions in a hot pan for about 2 minutes per side. Then, transfer them to the oven and roast for about 8 minutes.
How long does it take to cook a medallion in the oven?
For a medium-rare result, preheat your oven to 400°F and sear the medallions in a hot pan for about 2 minutes per side. Then, transfer them to the oven and roast for about 8 minutes. If you prefer your meat rare, reduce the roasting time to 6-7 minutes. For medium doneness, increase it to 10-11 minutes.
How do you cook beef medallions in a crock pot?
Place beef medallions on a small flat dish. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons olive oil over top, along with herbs of choice and garlic. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Remove from refrigerator and bring to room temperature before roasting. Preheat oven to 400°. Bring a sauté pan to high heat. Add remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
How to cook beef medallions?
The best cooking method for beef medallions is to sear them in a hot skillet and finish them in the oven for a perfect result every time. This will help to lock in the juices and create a delicious outer crust on the meat.