If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines elegance with bite-sized convenience, this Mini Beef Wellington Bites Recipe is your new go-to. These delightful morsels capture all the luxurious flavors of classic Beef Wellington but wrapped in perfectly flaky puff pastry, making them ideal for parties, special occasions, or simply treating yourself to something gourmet at home. Each bite bursts with tender Angus beef, earthy mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and a subtle punch from Dijon sauce that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mini Beef Wellington Bites Recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the rich beef tenderloin to the rustic mushrooms and the luscious Dijon sauce, every component plays a crucial role.
- 8 ounces white button or cremini mushrooms: Roughly chopped to create the flavorful duxelles filling.
- 2 shallots: Finely chopped, they add subtle sweetness and depth to the mushroom mixture.
- 3 garlic cloves: Divided for marinating the beef and enriching the duxelles.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used separately to sauté mushrooms and shallots, adding richness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary: Fresh rosemary lends an aromatic earthiness, split between the beef and mushroom mix.
- 1/4 cup dry red wine: Adds acidity and complexity to the mushroom duxelles.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors.
- 1/2 pound puff pastry (1 sheet): The golden, flaky exterior that wraps each bite perfectly, dusted with flour for easy handling.
- 1 egg: Beaten and brushed on for a beautiful glossy finish.
- 1 pound Chairman’s Reserve Platinum® Angus beef tenderloin: Cut into 1-inch chunks for tender, juicy centers.
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or avocado): For searing the beef to lock in flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives: Added as a fresh, mild onion garnish to finish the bites.
- Dijon Sauce Ingredients: 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 garlic clove minced, and kosher salt to taste create a tangy, creamy dip that perfectly complements the richness of each bite.
How to Make Mini Beef Wellington Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles
Start by sautéing the mushrooms, shallots, and half the garlic in half the butter over medium heat until the mixture is soft and most of the moisture evaporates. Stir in the rosemary and pour in the red wine, letting it reduce until the mixture resembles a thick paste. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside to cool. This duxelles brings a deep umami flavor and a tender texture that forms the backbone of the filling.
Step 2: Sear the Beef Chunks
Pat the Angus beef chunks dry and season with salt, pepper, and the remaining minced garlic and rosemary. Heat the neutral oil in a hot skillet and sear the beef pieces just until browned on each side, sealing in those juicy flavors without cooking through completely. Let the beef rest to cool as you prep the pastry. This step ensures the meat remains tender and flavorful inside each bite.
Step 3: Assemble the Mini Wellingtons
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut it into small squares large enough to wrap around each beef chunk and a spoonful of duxelles. Place a bit of mushroom mixture followed by a beef chunk in the center of each square. Fold the pastry up and around the filling, pinching the edges to seal. Repeat with all pieces, then brush each parcel with beaten egg for that signature golden shine.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the wrapped beef bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. This quick bake time finishes cooking the beef while giving the pastry a flaky, buttery crust that is simply irresistible.
Step 5: Prepare the Dijon Sauce
While the bites bake, whisk together the Dijon mustard, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a pinch of kosher salt until smooth and creamy. This tangy sauce cuts through the richness of the beef and pastry, offering a perfect balance of flavors when served alongside the Mini Beef Wellington Bites.
How to Serve Mini Beef Wellington Bites Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives on top of each puff pastry bite adds a vibrant pop of green and a subtle onion flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the savory beef and earthy mushrooms. You can even add a few microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch when serving at a gathering.
Side Dishes
These Mini Beef Wellington Bites shine best as a starter or appetizer, but pair them with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted fingerling potatoes to turn the experience into a full meal. Light sides with bright, fresh notes help contrast the deep flavors of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve the bites on a wooden cheese board alongside the Dijon sauce in a ramekin for dipping. Or arrange them on tiered serving trays for a stunning party display. You could also accompany them with tiny skewers or cocktail picks for easy handling and a fun, interactive feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your Mini Beef Wellington Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the puff pastry as crisp as possible is key, so placing parchment paper between layers prevents sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze the leftover bites before baking. Assemble the wellingtons, place them on a tray lined with parchment, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the Mini Beef Wellington Bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. This technique helps keep the pastry crispy and the beef warm without drying out the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and subtle flavor, you could substitute with a well-marbled sirloin or filet mignon cubes to keep the texture tender. Just be aware that cooking times might slightly vary.
Is it necessary to use fresh rosemary, or can I use dried?
Fresh rosemary has a brighter, greener flavor which elevates the dish wonderfully, but dried rosemary can work in a pinch. Use about half the amount if substituting dried to prevent overpowering the other flavors.
Can I make the Dijon sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The Dijon sauce tastes even better after resting in the refrigerator for a few hours. Just cover and keep chilled until serving to let those flavors meld perfectly.
Are Mini Beef Wellington Bites suitable for kids?
Absolutely! These bites are small, flavorful, and easy to eat, making them kid-friendly. You can reduce or omit any strong herbs or garlic depending on your child’s preferences.
What should I serve with the Mini Beef Wellington Bites for a party?
Offering a variety of dipping sauces like horseradish cream or a tangy tomato chutney alongside the Dijon sauce provides guests with choices. Pair with light salads or veggie platters to balance the richness of the bites.
Final Thoughts
This Mini Beef Wellington Bites Recipe is a total winner every time. It’s special enough for celebrations but surprisingly simple to make, allowing you to impress anyone without breaking a sweat. Once you try these flavorful, flaky little parcels filled with juicy Angus beef and buttery mushrooms, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a delectable treat that’s just bursting with warmth and delight.
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Mini Beef Wellington Bites Recipe
Mini Beef Wellington Bites are an elegant appetizer featuring tender Angus beef tenderloin wrapped in flaky puff pastry with a savory mushroom duxelles and aromatic herbs. These bite-sized treats are served with a creamy Dijon sauce, making them perfect for parties or special occasions.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16-20 mini Wellington bites
Ingredients
Dijon Sauce
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 Tablespoons sour cream
- 2 Tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Kosher salt, to taste
Mini Wellingtons
- 8 ounces white button or cremini mushrooms, roughly chopped
- 2 shallots, roughly chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped, divided
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary, divided
- 1/4 cup dry red wine
- Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 pound puff pastry (1 sheet)
- All-purpose flour, for dusting
- 1 egg
- 1 pound Chairman’s Reserve Platinum® Angus beef tenderloin, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 Tablespoon neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or avocado)
- 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Prepare the Dijon Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and kosher salt to taste. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Make the Mushroom Duxelles: Heat 3/4 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add roughly chopped mushrooms, shallots, 2 garlic cloves, 3/4 teaspoon rosemary, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and it evaporates, and the mixture becomes fragrant, about 8-10 minutes.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in 1/4 cup dry red wine and cook until the liquid is mostly evaporated, about 3-4 minutes. Remove mushroom mixture from heat and let cool completely.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Lightly dust a clean surface with all-purpose flour and roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth creases. Cut the pastry into roughly 1.5 to 2-inch squares, enough to wrap each beef chunk.
- Cook the Beef:’, Heat neutral oil in a skillet over high heat. Season beef tenderloin chunks with salt, pepper, and 3/4 teaspoon rosemary. Sear beef on all sides, about 1-2 minutes per side, just until browned but not cooked through. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Assemble the Mini Wellingtons: Place a small spoonful of mushroom duxelles on each pastry square, then a piece of seared beef on top. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg, fold pastry around beef to enclose completely, and seal edges by pressing gently. Place bites seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush the top of each Wellington bite with beaten egg to give a golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the mini Wellingtons for 15-20 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and puffed, and beef reaches desired doneness.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh chives, and serve warm with the prepared Dijon sauce.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife to cut puff pastry for clean edges.
- Cooking times may vary based on beef chunk size; adjust accordingly to preferred doneness.
- Allow mushroom mixture to cool before assembling to prevent soggy pastry.
- Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; bake when ready.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
