These Beef Wellington Bites are tiny pieces of heaven! With tender beef wrapped in flaky pastry and a tasty mushroom filling, they are perfect for parties or a special dinner at home.
Honestly, who can resist a mini version of the classic? They disappear so fast that I should probably make a double batch next time. Who knew delicious could be so cute? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Tenderloin: This is the star of the show. You want a cut that’s tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider using sirloin or flank steak, though they may need a bit more attention when cooking.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms bring a nice earthy flavor, but button mushrooms work too. If you’re not a mushroom fan, you might try finely chopped spinach or a mix of chopped nuts for a different texture and taste.
Puff Pastry: Frozen puff pastry is super convenient. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own from scratch, or you could use phyllo dough for a different texture, though it won’t be quite as flaky.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a zesty kick! If you don’t have it on hand, you could use whole grain mustard or even a mild honey mustard for a sweeter touch.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Golden Puff Pastry?
Getting that beautiful golden color on your puff pastry can be tricky, but it’s all about technique. Here’s how to ensure your pastry is perfectly baked:
- Ensure your puff pastry is thoroughly thawed and kept cool before you work with it. This helps it puff up nicely.
- When rolling it out, keep it slightly thick; too thin can lead to sogginess.
- Don’t skip the egg wash! A generous coating will give your pastry a shiny, golden finish.
- Keep an eye on your baking time. If it’s getting too dark on top but isn’t done, you can cover it loosely with foil.
Lastly, let the bites rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the filling to settle. This makes for easier serving! Enjoy your culinary creation!
Beef Wellington Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Beef: 1 lb beef tenderloin, trimmed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Cooking Oil: 2 tbsp olive oil
- Mushrooms: 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Shallot: 1, finely chopped
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Fresh Herbs: 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tbsp
- Puff Pastry: 1 package (about 14 oz), frozen, thawed
- Egg Wash: 1 egg, beaten
- Garnish (optional): Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs and fresh cranberries
- Dipping Sauce (optional): Creamy horseradish or mustard sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake. You’ll want to allow some time for everything to cool a bit, making the total time around 1 hour. It’s quick to whip up and offers that wow factor for your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start off by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking later on.
2. Sear the Beef:
Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes and sear them on all sides until browned, about 1-2 minutes per side. Make sure not to cook them all the way through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and let them cool on a plate.
3. Make the Mushroom Duxelles:
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped shallots and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Next, stir in the finely chopped mushrooms and thyme. Cook until most of the moisture evaporates and it becomes a paste-like consistency, about 8-10 minutes. Season with a little salt and pepper, then allow the mixture to cool completely.
4. Assemble the Bites:
Brush each piece of seared beef with Dijon mustard to add flavor. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into squares, slightly larger than the beef cubes.
Place a small spoonful of the cooled mushroom duxelles on the center of each pastry square, then place a beef cube on top. Wrap the pastry around the beef tightly and pinch the edges to seal. Place the wrapped bites seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake and Serve:
Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a beautiful golden finish. Bake them in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden, and the beef is cooked to your liking (medium rare is great). Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with fresh herbs and cranberries for a festive look. Serve them with your choice of dipping sauce and enjoy!
These Beef Wellington Bites will surely impress your guests and are perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use sirloin or flank steak. Just keep in mind that these cuts may need a bit more cooking time, so adjust accordingly based on your preferred doneness.
Can I Make the Duxelles Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mushroom duxelles a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before using it to fill your pastry, ensuring an even bake.
How Should I Store Leftover Beef Wellington Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This helps keep the pastry crispy!
Can I Use Homemade Puff Pastry?
Yes, you can! If you want to make your own puff pastry, it will elevate the dish, but keep in mind it may require more time and effort. The shop-bought version is much more convenient and yields excellent results!
