Why Make This Recipe
Mini Beef Wellington Bites are a delightful and elegant appetizer that brings together the rich flavors of beef tenderloin and savory mushrooms, all wrapped up in flaky puff pastry. They are perfect for parties, holidays, or any special gathering. Not only are they tasty, but they also add a touch of sophistication to your menu. These bite-sized delights are sure to impress your guests and make any occasion feel special.
How to Make Mini Beef Wellington Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef tenderloin
- 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for cooking
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat oil in a pan, season the beef with salt and pepper, and sear until browned on all sides.
- Remove from heat and spread Dijon mustard over the beef.
- In the same pan, sauté the chopped mushrooms until moisture evaporates; season with salt and pepper.
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut into squares large enough to wrap around pieces of beef.
- Place a spoonful of mushroom duxelles on each square, add a piece of meat, and wrap the pastry around it.
- Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
- Serve warm as an appetizer.
How to Serve Mini Beef Wellington Bites
These Mini Beef Wellington Bites are best served warm, straight from the oven. You can put them on a platter and enjoy them on their own or pair them with a dipping sauce like a tangy mustard or a rich gravy. They are a perfect finger food, making them ideal for easy eating at gatherings.
How to Store Mini Beef Wellington Bites
If you have leftover bites, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again. You can also freeze the unbaked bites; just wrap them tightly and store them for up to a month.
Tips to Make Mini Beef Wellington Bites
- Be sure not to overcook the beef during the searing step; it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor, and make sure to sauté until all moisture is gone, so the pastry doesn’t get soggy.
- If you want a kick of flavor, you can add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mushroom mixture.
Variation
For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding a layer of pâté or cream cheese on the puff pastry before adding the beef and mushrooms. You can also use other meats, such as pork or chicken, for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes, frozen puff pastry works great for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it according to package instructions before using.
2. Can I make Mini Beef Wellington Bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and freeze them unbaked. Just bake them from frozen and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
3. What other fillings can I use besides mushrooms?
You can use sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or even cheese to mix things up and create different flavors for your bites.
Mini Beef Wellington Bites
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb beef tenderloin Choose high-quality beef for best results.
- 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped Fresh mushrooms preferred.
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard For spreading on beef.
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed Use frozen puff pastry, thawed.
- 1 each egg, beaten For egg wash.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for cooking Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat oil in a pan, season the beef with salt and pepper, and sear until browned on all sides.
- Remove from heat and spread Dijon mustard over the beef.
- In the same pan, sauté the chopped mushrooms until moisture evaporates; season with salt and pepper.
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut into squares large enough to wrap around pieces of beef.
- Place a spoonful of mushroom duxelles on each square, add a piece of meat, and wrap the pastry around it.
- Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Serving
- Serve warm as an appetizer, optionally with a tangy mustard or rich gravy for dipping.