Mini Beef Wellington: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe

Mini Beef Wellington is a delightful twist on the classic dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. Originating from England, the traditional Beef Wellington is a luxurious centerpiece often reserved for special occasions. However, these mini versions bring the same rich flavors and elegant presentation to your table in a more approachable and convenient format. I love how the flaky pastry envelops tender beef, complemented by a savory mushroom duxelles and a hint of pâté, creating a perfect bite-sized treat.

People adore Mini Beef Wellington not just for its exquisite taste and texture, but also for its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or simply indulging in a cozy night in, these little delights are sure to impress. The combination of juicy beef and buttery pastry makes every bite a celebration of flavor, and the best part is that they can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the company of your guests without the stress of last-minute cooking. Join me as we explore this scrumptious recipe that brings a touch of elegance to any occasion!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Flour, for dusting

Preparing the Beef

1. Start by seasoning the beef cubes with salt and pepper. I like to be generous with the seasoning to ensure the meat is flavorful. 2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned beef cubes in a single layer. 3. Sear the beef for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but not cooked through. This step is crucial as it locks in the juices and flavor. 4. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside to cool.

Making the Mushroom Duxelles

5. In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. 6. Add the finely chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them down for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown. 7. Add the minced garlic and thyme leaves to the mushrooms, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. 8. Season the mushroom mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Assembling the Mini Beef Wellington

9. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 10. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to about 1/8-inch thickness. You want it to be thin enough to wrap around the beef but thick enough to hold its shape. 11. Cut the puff pastry into squares, approximately 4×4 inches. Depending on the size of your beef cubes, you may want to adjust the size of the squares. 12. Take a square of puff pastry and place a spoonful of the mushroom duxelles in the center. 13. Next, place a piece of the seared beef on top of the mushroom mixture. 14. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to help seal the Wellington. 15. Fold the corners of the pastry over the beef and mushrooms, pinching to seal tightly. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch. 16. Repeat this process with the remaining pastry squares, beef, and mushroom mixture.

Cooking the Mini Beef Wellington

17. Place the assembled mini Wellingtons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking. 18. Brush the tops of each Wellington with the remaining beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish. 19. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning. 20. Once baked, remove the mini Wellingtons from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

21. These mini Beef Wellingtons are perfect for entertaining! I like to serve them with a side of horseradish sauce or a rich red wine reduction for dipping. 22. You can also pair them with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef and pastry. 23. For a festive touch, consider garnishing the plate with fresh herbs or microgreens. Enjoy your delicious mini Beef Wellingtons! They are sure to impress your guests and make any occasion feel special.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Mini Beef Wellington recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress at their next gathering or simply indulge in a delicious homemade meal. The combination of tender beef, savory mushroom duxelles, and flaky pastry creates a delightful bite-sized treat that is sure to wow your guests and satisfy your taste buds. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these mini delights with a rich red wine or a refreshing arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the flavors. You can also experiment with variations by adding different herbs or spices to the mushroom mixture, or even swapping out the beef for a vegetarian option using mushrooms or lentils for a delightful twist. I encourage you to give this Mini Beef Wellington recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these little bites of heaven are bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out and any creative variations you come up with! Happy cooking! Print