Step 1: Season the Beef Tenderloin

Start by preparing the beef tenderloin. If your tenderloin is not yet trimmed, remove any excess silver skin or fat from the meat, leaving just the lean beef. Using kitchen twine, tie the roast at 1-2 inch intervals to help it cook evenly. This will also ensure that the tenderloin holds its shape during cooking.

Next, rub the beef tenderloin with olive oil, making sure it’s well-coated on all sides. Season the beef generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Gently press the seasoning into the meat so that it adheres well. Rub Dijon mustard all over the tenderloin as well, which will add a bit of tang and help the seasoning stick.

Step 2: Sear the Beef Tenderloin

Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the beef tenderloin to the pot. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning it to get a golden-brown crust on all sides. This searing step not only locks in flavor but also helps create a rich, flavorful crust.

Once the beef is seared, remove it from the Instant Pot and set it aside. Turn off the sauté function and prepare for pressure cooking.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Beef Tenderloin

Add 1/2 cup of beef broth to the Instant Pot, scraping the bottom to release any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This will create the base for your cooking liquid.

Place the beef tenderloin back into the Instant Pot, making sure it’s positioned so that it’s resting on the trivet or steamer basket if you have one. This helps the beef cook evenly and prevents it from sitting directly in the liquid.

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and cook on high pressure for 20-25 minutes for a medium-rare roast, depending on the size of the beef tenderloin. For medium, increase the cooking time by a few minutes (up to 30 minutes). Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 10-15 minutes before opening the lid.

When the beef is done cooking, remove it from the Instant Pot and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest while you make the cranberry butter sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cranberry Butter Sauce

For the cranberry butter sauce, add 1 cup of cranberries, 1/2 cup of orange juice, and 1/2 cup of beef broth into the Instant Pot. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, and fresh rosemary. Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function again and simmer the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.

Once the cranberries have softened and the sauce has reduced, add 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add more brown sugar to taste.

Step 5: Slice and Serve the Beef Tenderloin

Once the beef tenderloin has rested, slice it into 1/2-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices on a platter or individual plates, then drizzle with the warm cranberry butter sauce. Garnish with extra fresh rosemary if desired.

Serve the Instant Pot Beef Tenderloin with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light green salad for a complete, festive meal.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Take a moment to appreciate how beautiful and tender your roast beef looks! The Instant Pot makes cooking a luxurious cut of beef like tenderloin surprisingly quick and easy. The cranberry butter sauce adds a fresh, seasonal twist that ties the whole dish together with its balance of sweetness and richness.