Orange Peppercorn Beef Medallions
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey with the exquisite Orange Peppercorn Beef Medallions, a recipe that seamlessly blends the citrusy zest of oranges with the robust and peppery notes of black peppercorns, all nestled in the tender embrace of perfectly cooked beef medallions. This dish not only promises a burst of flavors but also adds a vibrant visual appeal with its colorful bell pepper sauce. Ideal for a special dinner or a fancy weekend treat, this recipe from lovewithrecipes.com is sure to impress your family and friends.
Recipe Overview
Name: Orange Peppercorn Beef Medallions
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Category: Main Course
Keywords: Meat, Quick Meal, Under 60 Minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 730.9
- Fat: 57.6g
- Saturated Fat: 28.1g
- Cholesterol: 207.2mg
- Sodium: 265.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 7.7g
- Fiber: 0.9g
- Sugar: 4.3g
- Protein: 44g
Ingredients
- 4 teaspoons fresh orange zest
- 2 teaspoons crushed black peppercorns
- 1 1/2 pounds beef tenderloin (cut into 8 medallions)
- Salt to taste
- 8 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 4 tablespoons finely chopped shallots
- 4 tablespoons finely chopped red bell peppers
- 4 tablespoons finely chopped green bell peppers
- 2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh diced orange segments
Instructions
-
Prepare the Orange Peppercorn Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of fresh orange zest and ½ teaspoon of crushed black peppercorns. Mix well and transfer to a small plate.
-
Season the Beef Medallions:
- Use 2 beef tenderloin medallions per serving. Season each medallion with salt to taste.
- Coat one side of each medallion with the prepared orange zest and peppercorn mixture. Press lightly to adhere the mixture to the meat.
-
Cook the Medallions:
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
- Place the medallions, crusted side down, in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until browned.
- Turn the medallions and cook for another 4-5 minutes to achieve medium rare. If a more well-done finish is desired, transfer the pan to a preheated 350°F oven and cook until the desired doneness is reached.
- Remove the medallions from the skillet and keep them warm.
-
Prepare the Orange Bell Pepper Sauce:
- Add a second tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Melt over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped shallots and 1 tablespoon each of finely chopped red and green bell peppers.
- Cook the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh-squeezed orange juice and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add 1 tablespoon of fresh diced orange segments to the hot liquid, then remove the skillet from the heat.
-
Serve:
- Arrange 2 medallions on each serving plate.
- Pour the orange bell pepper sauce over the medallions.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors at their peak.
Tips for Success
- Selecting Beef: Choose high-quality beef tenderloin for the best texture and flavor. Medallions should be about 1-1.5 inches thick to ensure they cook evenly.
- Peppercorns: Freshly crushed black peppercorns offer a more intense flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. Use a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder for best results.
- Zest and Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest are key to achieving the bright citrus notes in this dish. Avoid using bottled juice or dried zest as they lack the same vibrant flavor.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the salt content of the dish more precisely.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these succulent beef medallions with a variety of side dishes to complement their rich flavors. Here are a few suggestions:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture and mild garlic flavor of mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the bold, citrusy beef medallions.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus with a sprinkle of sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil adds a fresh and crisp contrast to the rich medallions.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: A simple rice pilaf with fresh herbs like parsley and thyme enhances the dish’s aromatic qualities.
Beverage Pairings
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a suitable beverage:
- Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the robust flavors of the beef and the peppercorns.
- Sparkling Water with a Twist of Citrus: For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with a slice of orange or lemon to echo the citrus notes in the dish.
Conclusion
The Orange Peppercorn Beef Medallions recipe is a testament to how a few simple, high-quality ingredients can come together to create a meal that is both visually stunning and deeply satisfying. This dish strikes a perfect balance between the savory richness of beef, the sharpness of black pepper, and the refreshing zest of oranges. Whether you are preparing this for a special occasion or a delightful weeknight dinner, it is sure to impress and delight your guests.
As you embark on creating this culinary masterpiece, remember that the secret to great cooking lies in the love and care you pour into each step. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and share the joy of a beautifully prepared meal with those you love. Happy cooking!