Marinated in our homemade sweet and spicy Honey BBQ Sauce, the Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe is a standout dish perfect for summer gatherings or any special occasion. This tender and juicy beef tenderloin offers a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your guests. It’s easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet and spicy BBQ sauce infuses the beef with mouthwatering flavor.
- Easy Preparation: With simple marinating and grilling steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a summer cookout, this dish fits right in.
- Juicy Texture: Grilling ensures a perfectly juicy tenderloin that melts in your mouth.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the marinade to suit your taste for a personalized touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools. Having the proper equipment can simplify the process and enhance your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Ziplock bag
- Grill brush
- Tongs
- Instant read thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and adds that perfect charred flavor.
- Instant read thermometer: This tool helps you achieve the ideal doneness, preventing overcooking.
- Tongs: Using tongs allows you to turn meat without piercing it, keeping juices locked inside.
Ingredients
For the Beef Tenderloin
- 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.
- Pour in the barbecue sauce until fully covered.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Prepare for Grilling
- Remove the tenderloins from the fridge 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.
- Turn off all but one burner, leaving it on high while cleaning the grates with a grill brush.
Step 3: Grill the Tenderloin
- Lightly oil the grates using tongs and a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil.
- Take the beef from the marinade and place it on the hot side of the grill.
- Season with salt and pepper, then cover the grill.
- Cook, turning occasionally until all sides are nicely charred, basting with leftover marinade as needed.
Step 4: Finish Cooking
- Once browned on all sides, move the tenderloin to the cooler side of the grill.
- Cover and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (about 5-10 minutes).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Transfer to a carving board and tent lightly with foil.
- Allow resting for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with additional BBQ sauce if desired.
This Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table! Enjoy!
How to Serve Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe
Serving grilled BBQ beef tenderloin is all about showcasing its juicy flavor and tenderness. Pair it with complementary sides and sauces to enhance the meal experience.
Classic BBQ Sauce
- Use additional barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. This enhances the smoky flavors of the meat.
Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the beef.
Grilled Vegetables
- Serve grilled vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, for a colorful addition that complements the main dish.
Garlic Bread
- Warm garlic bread can provide a satisfying crunch and soak up any juices from the tenderloin.
Coleslaw
- A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy texture that pairs well with the tender, savory meat.
Baked Potatoes
- Opt for baked potatoes, which can be topped with sour cream or chives, providing a hearty side option.
How to Perfect Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe
To ensure your grilled BBQ beef tenderloin turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Marinate Properly: Allowing the tenderloins to marinate for at least four hours infuses flavor and enhances tenderness.
- Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill to high heat before placing the meat on it. This helps achieve a nice sear and lock in juices.
- Use an Instant Read Thermometer: Checking for doneness with an instant-read thermometer ensures your beef is cooked perfectly to 145°F.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the beef to rest after grilling helps redistribute juices, keeping it moist when sliced.
- Baste While Cooking: Basting with leftover marinade while grilling adds extra flavor and moisture to the tenderloin.
- Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain makes each bite more tender and enjoyable.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe
Pairing your grilled BBQ beef tenderloin with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet and buttery corn is an ideal summer side that complements BBQ flavors beautifully.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort alongside this savory grilled dish.
- Potato Salad: A classic creamy potato salad provides a cool contrast to the warm tenderloin.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a healthy touch with its vibrant color and flavor.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil, roasted Brussels sprouts bring out their natural sweetness, pairing well with beef.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a fun twist while balancing savory elements of the meal.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and croutons in Caesar dressing provide a tasty crunch alongside rich flavors.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs can soak up any juices from your flavorful grilled tenderloin.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When grilling the perfect beef tenderloin, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Not Marinating Long Enough: Skipping the marination process or not allowing enough time can result in less flavorful meat. Aim for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Cooking Straight from the Fridge: Grilling cold meat can lead to uneven cooking. Always let your tenderloins sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.
- Ignoring Grill Temperature: A hot grill is essential for achieving a good sear. Make sure to preheat your grill on high and clean the grates before placing the meat on them.
- Basting with Used Sauce: Using sauce that has touched raw meat can introduce bacteria. Always reserve a portion of BBQ sauce for basting that hasn’t had contact with raw beef.
- Underestimating Rest Time: Cutting into the beef too soon can release juices and dry out the meat. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes under foil after cooking to retain its moisture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover grilled BBQ beef tenderloin in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe
- Wrap the beef tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the beef in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Slice the tenderloin and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while warming.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cut of meat for this Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe?
The best cut is typically a whole beef tenderloin, as it’s tender and cooks evenly when grilled.
How do I know when my grilled BBQ beef tenderloin is done?
Use an instant-read thermometer; it should register at least 145°F (63°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the meat.
Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce instead of homemade?
Absolutely! While our homemade Honey BBQ Sauce enhances flavor, store-bought options work well if you’re short on time.
How long does it take to grill beef tenderloin?
Cooking time varies based on thickness but generally takes about 20 minutes, plus additional resting time afterward.
Can I customize this Grilled BBQ beef Tenderloin Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to adjust spices or add herbs during marination for different flavor profiles that suit your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled BBQ Beef Tenderloin Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it at summer barbecues or holiday gatherings, it’s sure to impress your guests. Customize it with your favorite marinades or sides, and enjoy this juicy main course any time!
Grilled BBQ Beef Tenderloin
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of our Grilled BBQ Beef Tenderloin, marinated in a sweet and spicy homemade Honey BBQ Sauce. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or any special occasion. With its tender and juicy texture, this recipe will impress your guests while being simple enough for busy weeknights. Elevate your grilling game with this delicious beef tenderloin that combines ease of preparation with unforgettable taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 beef tenderloins (1 ½ to 2 pounds total)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
- Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the beef by placing the tenderloins in a large ziplock bag with barbecue sauce. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat your grill on high.
- Clean the grill grates and lightly oil them. Place the tenderloins on the hot side of the grill, season with salt and pepper, and cover.
- Grill until all sides are charred, then move to the cooler side of the grill to cook until reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (about 5-10 minutes).
- Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serve with additional barbecue sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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