Mini Beef Wellingtons are a showstopping dish that marries tender beef, savory mushroom duxelles, and flaky puff pastry into a bite-sized treat. These elegant parcels are the epitome of gourmet comfort food, offering a luxurious yet accessible way to indulge. Perfect for entertaining or special occasions, Mini Beef Wellingtons impress with their refined presentation and robust flavors. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, preparing a romantic dinner, or simply treating your family to something special, these delightful portions deliver all the sophistication of the classic Beef Wellington in a manageable, individual serving. They’re as visually stunning as they are flavorful, making them an unforgettable addition to any menu. From casual gatherings to formal celebrations, Mini Beef Wellingtons are a dish that promises to wow and elevate your culinary repertoire.

Why Mini Beef Wellingtons?

The Mini Beef Wellington offers the perfect balance of gourmet sophistication and practicality. By serving these individually, you eliminate the stress of slicing a large Wellington while ensuring each portion retains its structure and presentation. Additionally, their compact size makes them ideal for appetizers, party platters, or even a stunning main course. The rich combination of flavors, textures, and aromas guarantees a memorable dining experience.

Furthermore, these bite-sized treats are customizable, allowing you to tailor them to your specific preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply looking for an indulgent weeknight dinner, Mini Beef Wellingtons are versatile enough to fit the occasion perfectly.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Appetizer/Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British-inspired

Ingredients

For the Mini Wellingtons:

• 6 beef tenderloin medallions (about 2-3 oz each, 1-inch thick)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Mushroom Duxelles:

• 2 cups cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 small shallot, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Components:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 6 slices prosciutto
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Flour (for dusting)

Equipment Needed:

• Skillet
• Food processor (optional, for chopping mushrooms)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beef Medallions

1. To begin, pat the beef medallions dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step ensures a good sear.
2. Next, season the medallions generously with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear each medallion for 1 minute on each side. This creates a golden-brown crust.
4. After searing, transfer the medallions to a plate and let them cool. This cooling step prevents overcooking during baking.

Make the Mushroom Duxelles

1. First, melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Then, add the finely chopped mushrooms and thyme. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and the mixture becomes dry, which takes about 8-10 minutes.
3. After that, deglaze the skillet with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Continue cooking until the wine evaporates completely.
4. Finally, season with salt and pepper, then set the duxelles aside to cool before assembly.

Assemble the Mini Wellingtons

1. To start, lay a slice of prosciutto on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of mushroom duxelles over the prosciutto for added flavor.
2. Place a beef medallion in the center of the prosciutto. Wrap the prosciutto around the beef, encasing it completely.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 6 squares, large enough to fully encase each wrapped beef medallion.
4. Next, place each prosciutto-wrapped medallion in the center of a puff pastry square. Fold the pastry edges over the beef, sealing the seams by pinching or pressing with a fork.
5. Arrange the assembled Wellingtons seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Lastly, brush the tops with egg wash for a golden finish.

Bake the Wellingtons

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Then, bake the Mini Beef Wellingtons for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the beef reaches your desired doneness (e.g., 125°F for medium-rare).
3. Once done, remove from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute evenly.

Tips for Perfect Mini Beef Wellingtons

1. Use High-Quality Beef: Tenderloin medallions are ideal for their tenderness and uniform shape, but you can also use sirloin if preferred.
2. Avoid Overfilling: To prevent the puff pastry from tearing, ensure the mushroom duxelles and prosciutto wrap tightly around the beef.
3. Chill Before Baking: If your puff pastry becomes too soft during assembly, refrigerate the Wellingtons for 15 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.
4. Customize Doneness: Adjust the baking time to suit your preferred level of doneness. Remember, smaller cuts of beef cook faster.
5. Work Efficiently: Keep the puff pastry cold during the assembly process to achieve optimal flakiness when baked.

Variations to Try

1. Add Cheese: Place a thin slice of blue cheese or Brie on top of the beef medallion before wrapping it in prosciutto for an extra layer of flavor.
2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with a thick slice of roasted portobello mushroom or eggplant for a vegetarian twist.
3. Herbed Puff Pastry: Sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley onto the puff pastry before wrapping for an aromatic touch.
4. Sauce Pairings: Serve with a side of red wine reduction, peppercorn sauce, or even a dollop of horseradish cream.
5. Seasonal Flavors: Incorporate a touch of cranberry or apricot chutney for a festive twist.

Conservation and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

• Allow the Mini Beef Wellingtons to cool completely before storing. Cooling prevents condensation, which can make the pastry soggy.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Assemble the Wellingtons and freeze them unbaked on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for long-term storage.
• When ready to bake, cook directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes.

Reheating:

• Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can compromise the puff pastry’s texture.

Serving Suggestions

1. Elegant Plating: Serve the Mini Beef Wellingtons with a drizzle of red wine jus and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a refined touch.
2. Side Pairings: Complement them with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh arugula salad.
3. Wine Pairing: Pair with a full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, to enhance the dish’s rich flavors.
4. Entertaining Tip: Arrange on a platter with decorative garnishes for a stunning presentation that impresses your guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the Mini Beef Wellingtons up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. This makes entertaining stress-free.

Can I use store-bought pastry?

Absolutely. Store-bought puff pastry works wonderfully and saves time without compromising flavor.

How do I ensure the beef is cooked perfectly?

Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, removing the Wellingtons from the oven at 125°F for medium-rare. Let them rest before serving.

Conclusion

Mini Beef Wellingtons are a versatile and flavorful dish that combines gourmet flair with approachable preparation. Their bite-sized portions make them ideal for entertaining, while their luxurious flavors ensure they’ll be the highlight of any meal. Additionally, their adaptability allows you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. With options to customize and adapt, this recipe caters to a wide range of tastes and occasions. So, roll out the puff pastry, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy these delicious creations that are as delightful to eat as they are to make!