Mini Beef Wellingtons Recipe – Elegant Holiday Appetizer Idea
This Mini Beef Wellingtons Recipe is a bite-sized twist on the classic dish, perfect for entertaining. Tender beef is topped with savory mushroom duxelles, wrapped in flaky puff pastry, and baked until golden brown. These elegant appetizers are impressive yet surprisingly simple to prepare, making them ideal for holiday parties, romantic dinners, or any special occasion. Serve with a rich dipping sauce or alongside roasted vegetables for a gourmet touch.
Equipment
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling Pin
- Sharp knife
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef tenderloin or filet mignon (cut into medallions)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or portobello), finely chopped
- 2 shallots, minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 6–8 slices prosciutto
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare Duxelles: Sauté mushrooms, shallots, and garlic in butter until moisture evaporates. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Cool.
- Sear Beef: Season beef medallions. Sear in hot skillet with olive oil for 1–2 minutes per side. Rest and chill.
- Wrap Beef: Spread Dijon mustard on beef. Lay prosciutto slices flat, top with duxelles, and place beef medallion in center. Wrap tightly.
- Prepare Pastry: Roll out puff pastry. Cut into squares large enough to encase beef parcels. Place wrapped beef in center, fold pastry over, and seal edges.
- Bake: Brush pastry with egg wash. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve Hot: Plate with red wine reduction or béarnaise sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
- Variations: Try chicken or salmon for lighter versions, or vegetarian fillings with mushrooms and spinach.
- Storage: Refrigerate cooked Wellingtons for 2–3 days. Freeze unbaked parcels for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Use oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving.
- Healthier Options: Use leaner cuts of beef, whole-grain puff pastry, and reduced-fat sauces.
- Pairings: Best with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.