These Beef Wellington Bites are petite treats that pack a punch! Made with tender beef wrapped in flaky pastry, they’re perfect for parties or a cozy evening at home.
Who can resist these bite-sized delights? I love serving them with a side of dipping sauce, because let’s face it, everything’s better when you can dip! 😄
They’re fun to make and even easier to eat. Just roll, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Tenderloin: This is the star of the show, providing a tender and juicy bite. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can substitute with sirloin or flank steak, though these cuts may require more cooking time to tenderize.
Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor. If you can’t find these, shiitake mushrooms are a fantastic alternative! Just make sure to chop them finely so they fit well in the pastry.
Puff Pastry: This flaky crust is essential for that classic Wellington texture. If you’re short on time, store-bought is perfectly fine. For a healthier option, try phyllo dough, but you’ll lose some of the flakiness. I personally love using the store-bought puff pastry for convenience.
Egg Wash: The beaten egg gives the pastry a golden color after baking. If you want to skip the egg, a mixture of milk and water can also work to create a nice finish.
How Do I Achieve Perfect Browning on the Pastry?
Getting that beautiful golden-brown finish on your pastry is key to a great Beef Wellington Bite. Here’s how to do it in a few simple steps:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F (220°C) before baking. This helps the pastry rise and brown evenly.
- Applying an egg wash (or your substitute) not only enhances the color but helps the layers separate for that fluffy effect. Be generous but don’t drown the pastry.
- Place the bites seam-side down on the baking sheet. This helps them hold their shape and prevents any filling from leaking out during baking.
- Keep an eye on them as they bake, and if you notice they’re browning too quickly, you can gently cover them with foil to prevent burning.
How to Make Beef Wellington Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb beef tenderloin, cut into 12 small bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Mushroom Mixture:
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tbsp dry white wine or sherry (optional)
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For Serving:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
- Dijon mustard or a creamy horseradish sauce for dipping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes of prep time to prepare the ingredients and assemble everything. Then, allow for 15-18 minutes to bake the bites, totaling around 45-50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delightful appetizer or a snack during your movie night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This sets you up for success for a golden, flaky crust!
2. Season the Beef:
Lightly season your beef tenderloin pieces with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning will enhance the rich flavor of the beef.
3. Sear the Beef:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over high heat. Once hot, sear the beef bites for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned but still rare inside. This step locks in the juices and flavor! Remove the beef from the skillet and let it cool.
4. Make the Mushroom Mixture:
Using the same skillet, add butter and sauté the finely chopped mushrooms, minced garlic, and thyme. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the mixture is dry and fragrant. If using, add dry white wine or sherry and cook until evaporated. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the sheet of puff pastry and cut it into 12 squares, each big enough to wrap around a beef piece.
6. Assemble the Bites:
On each pastry square, place a spoonful of the mushroom mixture, followed by a beef piece. This combination is a match made in heaven!
7. Seal the Parcels:
Fold the pastry over the beef and mushrooms, pinching the edges or using a fork to create small sealed parcels. This keeps all the delicious juices inside.
8. Prepare for Baking:
Place the wrapped beef bites seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Brush each one with the beaten egg to achieve a beautiful golden finish.
9. Bake:
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffy and beautifully golden brown.
10. Rest and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the bites rest for about 5 minutes. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh rosemary if you like!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delightful Beef Wellington Bites warm, alongside Dijon mustard or creamy horseradish sauce for dipping. Perfect for impressing family and friends!
Enjoy your delicious Beef Wellington Bites – perfect bite-sized luxury!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for These Bites?
Yes, you can! While beef tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness, cuts like sirloin or even ribeye can work. Just keep in mind that these cuts may require slightly longer cooking times to achieve the desired tenderness.
What Can I Substitute for Puff Pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry or want a lighter option, you can use phyllo dough. However, note that phyllo will produce a different texture, more crisp than flaky. Just layer a few sheets and cut into squares before wrapping the filling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their flakiness.
Can I Prepare These Bites in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Beef Wellington Bites a few hours ahead of time and keep them in the fridge before baking. Just remember to brush them with egg wash right before baking to ensure a shiny finish!
