My Aldi Already Had Them on the Shelf

🥩 ! 😃 Who’s Ready for Beef Tenderloin?

Well, look what has already made its way onto the shelves at Aldi! If you’re a fan of a special dinner, this is the kind of grocery-store find that can make you stop, take a second look, and start planning the menu.

These packages of USDA Choice beef tenderloin are certainly eye-catching. Tenderloin is one of the most prized cuts of beef, known for its naturally tender texture, mild flavour, and versatility. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating the family to something special, it’s a cut that can make an ordinary meal feel like an occasion.

And seeing it on the shelf early has some shoppers thinking ahead!

🛒 Why Is Everyone Excited About Beef Tenderloin?

Beef tenderloin comes from a muscle along the cow’s backbone that does very little work. Because it isn’t heavily used, the meat is exceptionally tender.

It’s also the cut used to make filet mignon steaks. A whole tenderloin gives you the flexibility to prepare several different portions, depending on how you trim and cut it.

You can make:

  • Filet mignon steaks: Thick, elegant steaks perfect for pan-searing or grilling.
  • Beef tenderloin roast: A beautiful centrepiece for a special dinner.
  • Chateaubriand: A thick centre-cut portion often prepared for sharing.
  • Beef tips: Smaller pieces that can be used in sautés and other dishes.

⭐ What Does USDA Choice Mean?

The packages in the picture are labelled USDA Choice. This is a USDA quality grade based primarily on factors including marbling and the expected tenderness, juiciness, and flavour of the beef.

Choice is a popular quality grade and can make an excellent dinner. Tenderloin is naturally leaner than many other beef cuts, so don’t expect the heavy marbling you might see in a ribeye.

💰 Let’s Talk About the Price!

The price labels in the photo show approximately $12.99 per pound:

  • Top package: 7.69 pounds, about $99.89.
  • Bottom package: 5.66 pounds, about $73.52.

That’s a substantial grocery purchase, but buying a whole tenderloin can be useful because you can portion it yourself instead of purchasing individual filet mignon steaks.

Prices and availability can vary between Aldi locations, so it’s worth checking your local weekly ad.

🍽️ What Can You Make With a Whole Tenderloin?

Here are a few delicious possibilities:

1. Garlic Butter Filet Mignon

Cut the tenderloin into thick steaks, season with salt and pepper, sear in a hot skillet, and finish with butter, garlic, and fresh rosemary.

2. Classic Beef Tenderloin Roast

Season the whole roast with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs. Roast until it reaches your preferred doneness, checking the centre with a meat thermometer.

3. Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon

Wrap individual tenderloin steaks with bacon, secure with kitchen twine, and sear before finishing in the oven.

4. Beef Wellington

For an extra-special occasion, use a centre-cut portion to make Beef Wellington with mushroom duxelles and puff pastry.

🧊 Can You Buy It Now and Save It for the Holidays?

Absolutely! If the package is still within its use-by date and has been properly refrigerated, you can also freeze it for later.

A few tips:

  • Keep it refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or colder.
  • If freezing, follow the package instructions and freeze it promptly.
  • For the best quality, wrap it securely if the original packaging isn’t suitable for freezing.
  • Thaw it safely in the refrigerator, not on the kitchen counter.

🛍️ Don’t Wait Too Long!

One thing Aldi shoppers know is that certain special meat offerings don’t necessarily stay around forever.

Aldi explains that its limited-time Aldi Finds and fresh meat specials are available while supplies last, and availability can vary by store. Aldi Help

So if beef tenderloin is on your shopping list, checking the weekly ad and visiting your local store early might be worthwhile.

❤️ The Bottom Line

Seeing whole beef tenderloins on the shelf is exciting, especially for anyone who loves preparing a beautiful roast or cutting their own filet mignon steaks.

And at $12.99 per pound in the pictured store, it’s definitely something shoppers may want to compare with their local butcher and other supermarkets.

Now the big question:

🥩 Would you buy one whole tenderloin and cut your own steaks, roast the entire thing for a special dinner, or leave it on the shelf because of the price?

And has your Aldi put these out yet? 😃

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