Beef Wellington Bites are mini treats that pack a big flavor punch! These little pastries, wrapped around tender beef and rich mushrooms, are perfect for parties or snack time.
Who doesn’t love a bite-sized version of a classic dish? I love serving these while friends gather — they vanish in no time! They’re super easy to pop in the oven, making entertaining a breeze.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Tenderloin: This is the star of the dish! If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider using flank steak or sirloin. Both will work, but ensure you slice them thinly to match the tenderness of tenderloin.
Mushrooms: Button mushrooms work well here, but you can mix in shiitake or cremini for a deeper flavor. If you’re avoiding mushrooms, use sautéed spinach or even caramelized onions as a filling instead.
Puff Pastry: Store-bought pastry is convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own! For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free puff pastry available in stores.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a lovely kick. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard or even a touch of horseradish can do the trick for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Perfectly Sear the Beef for My Wellington Bites?
Searing the beef is crucial for flavor! Here are a few tips to get it just right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil; this helps create a nice crust.
- Don’t crowd the pan! Sear in batches if needed to keep the heat up.
- Only cook the beef until it’s browned on the outside but still rare inside, so it’s tender when baked.
- Let the beef rest after searing; this helps keep it juicy.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Puff Pastry Rises Nicely?
Getting that golden, flaky texture is key! Here are some points to remember:
- Roll out the pastry gently on a lightly floured surface to avoid tearing.
- Chill the wrapped bites for about 10 minutes before baking. This helps the pastry to puff up better.
- Use an egg wash for a beautiful shine and color; it also helps the pastry crisp up.
- Bake in a preheated oven—this gives them a great rise!
With these tips and ingredient insights, you’re ready to impress with your Beef Wellington Bites! Enjoy them warm and watch them disappear in no time!
Beef Wellington Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb beef tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
- Cranberries, for garnish (optional)
- Sauce for serving, such as a creamy horseradish or mustard sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have delightful, bite-sized indulgences ready to serve in about 50 minutes overall!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Beef:
Generously season the beef tenderloin pieces with salt and black pepper. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Beef:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned beef bites, searing them on all sides for about 1-2 minutes. The goal is to get a nice brown crust while keeping the inside rare. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Mushroom Mixture:
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped mushrooms, minced shallot, garlic, and thyme leaves. Cook this mixture over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently until it’s dry and browned. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool a bit.
4. Preheat the Oven:
While the mushroom mixture cools, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Cut it into small squares, making sure they’re big enough to wrap around each beef bite nicely.
6. Add the Mustard:
Spread a small amount of Dijon mustard on each puff pastry square. This adds a lovely tang!
7. Assemble the Bites:
Place a spoonful of the cooled mushroom mixture in the center of each square, then top it with a seared beef piece. Be sure to wrap the pastry snugly around the filling.
8. Seal and Place on Baking Sheet:
Fold the pastry around the beef and mushrooms, pinching the edges to seal completely. Place each wrapped bite seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
9. Apply Egg Wash:
Brush the tops of the pastry bites with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
10. Bake:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them; they should look delicious!
11. Let Them Cool:
Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. This also helps the flavors settle!
12. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the Beef Wellington Bites with fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries if you like. Serve them warm alongside your chosen dipping sauce, like creamy horseradish or mustard.
Enjoy these elegant and delicious Beef Wellington Bites warm as a perfect appetizer or party snack!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute beef tenderloin with cuts like flank steak or sirloin. Just ensure you slice them thinly for tenderness, or adjust the cooking time to keep them juicy!
How Do I Store Leftover Beef Wellington Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to crispen the pastry again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and mushroom filling ahead of time. Assemble the bites and freeze them unbaked. When ready to serve, bake them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Serve with Beef Wellington Bites?
These bites are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a creamy horseradish sauce, mustard sauce, or even a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.
