Mini Beef Wellingtons
Mini Beef Wellingtons 🥩✨ – The Elegant Bite-Sized Showstopper for Holidays & Special Nights
Hello gourmet friend! 👋 If you’re searching for the perfect appetizer or entrée that screams elegance, look no further than these Mini Beef Wellingtons. These luxurious, bite-sized parcels of seared beef tenderloin wrapped in golden puff pastry with savory mushroom duxelles, prosciutto, and a drizzle of Gorgonzola cream are guaranteed to steal the show — whether it’s a holiday gathering, anniversary dinner, or a “just because I deserve it” kind of evening.
This recipe elevates the classic Beef Wellington into a more approachable, party-friendly version that looks impressive and tastes like it came straight out of a 5-star kitchen. It’s rich, flaky, tender, and bursting with flavor from every layer. Even better? They’re **prep-ahead friendly** and surprisingly simple with the right tips.
Let’s walk through the full recipe, pro chef secrets, and tips for making these look and taste like culinary perfection — all wrapped in buttery, golden pastry. 🥂
đź›’ Ingredients (With Gourmet Upgrades)
- 6–8 oz beef tenderloin fillet – Upgrade: Use center-cut Wagyu filet mignon or grass-fed beef tenderloin.
- 3 tbsp butter – Go for European-style cultured butter like Kerrygold for extra richness.
- 2 shallots, minced – These add sweet depth that onions can’t match.
- 8 oz crimini mushrooms (or button mushrooms) – Or go luxe with wild mushrooms like porcini or chanterelle.
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (plus more for garnish) – Use lemon thyme for a citrusy pop.
- ½ tbsp fresh parsley, minced
- ¼ cup Cabernet Sauvignon or Sherry wine – Adds deep, jammy notes to the duxelles.
- 1 pastry dough sheet – Use puff pastry for flakiness or phyllo for a crispier shell.
- 2 slices prosciutto – Upgrade to San Daniele or Parma ham for best results.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Optional: use truffle mustard for a luxe twist.
- 2 tbsp Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled – Or sub with blue Stilton or Roquefort.
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions (With Pro Chef Secrets)
Step 1: Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles
- Pulse mushrooms in a food processor until finely chopped (but not mushy).
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté shallots until translucent.
- Add the mushrooms, thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook until all liquid evaporates, stirring frequently — this could take 8–10 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with wine and simmer until dry again (about 3–5 minutes).
- Stir in parsley and remove from heat. Let cool completely.
- Chef’s Secret: The drier your duxelles, the flakier your pastry. Never skip this step!
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Cut tenderloin into 12 even pieces (1 to 1½ inches thick).
- Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Sear quickly on all sides in a hot skillet with oil (1–2 minutes per side). Don’t overcook!
- Let cool completely before wrapping to avoid soggy pastry.
Step 3: Assemble the Mini Wellingtons
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