Mini Beef Wellington Recipe (with Video)

Mini Beef Wellington Recipe: There’s something truly elegant about Mini Beef Wellingtons. They combine gourmet flavor, sophisticated presentation, and bite-sized convenience, making them the perfect appetizer or main for a dinner party, date night, or holiday gathering.

If you’ve always been intimidated by traditional Beef Wellington, don’t worry—this mini version is much simpler and way more forgiving.

Let’s walk through this mouthwatering recipe with every detail you need to master it.

What Is Mini Beef Wellington?

Mini Beef Wellington is a smaller, individual-sized version of the classic British dish, Beef Wellington. Traditionally, the dish features a juicy beef tenderloin coated in mushroom duxelles and wrapped in puff pastry. The mini format keeps all the same elements but simplifies portions and enhances presentation. The result? A golden, flaky shell enclosing tender beef and savory mushrooms—perfectly sized for serving as appetizers or elegant dinner portions.

What makes Mini Beef Wellington so appealing is that it’s not only fancy-looking but also packed with flavor. From the buttery pastry to the umami-rich mushrooms and perfectly cooked meat, it’s a bite that impresses every time. Plus, making them in smaller portions allows better control over doneness and makes it easier to serve a crowd without slicing.

Why Mini Beef Wellington Is a Showstopper Appetizer

Want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen? Mini Beef Wellingtons are the answer. These bite-sized morsels bring gourmet restaurant vibes to your table and are surprisingly simple once you get the hang of it.

Here’s why they’re a fan favorite:

• Perfectly Portion-Controlled: No slicing or serving mess—just grab and bite.
• Visually Stunning: Golden brown pastry with a beefy center is always eye-catching.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of beef, mushrooms, and prosciutto wrapped in buttery pastry is unbeatable.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as a party appetizer, dinner entrée, or even in lunchboxes.

Whether it’s a formal dinner or casual gathering, Mini Beef Wellington brings sophistication with zero stress.

Perfect Occasions for Mini Beef Wellington

Not sure when to serve these beauties? Here are some occasions where Mini Beef Wellingtons will shine:

• Holiday Parties: Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or Thanksgiving.
• Romantic Dinners: A perfect dish for Valentine’s Day or anniversaries.
• Dinner Parties: Your guests will think you hired a private chef.
• Cocktail Hours: These finger-friendly bites go great with wine or champagne.
• Special Celebrations: Birthdays, engagements, or baby showers.

Basically, anytime you want to impress, Mini Beef Wellingtons are your go-to.

List of Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s get down to what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.

Beef Tenderloin

• Look for high-quality beef tenderloin or filet mignon.
• Cut into small medallions (around 1.5-2 inches thick).
• Season well with salt and pepper.

Puff Pastry

• Store-bought puff pastry works perfectly.
• Thaw before using but keep it cold for easy handling.

Mushroom Duxelles

• A finely chopped mushroom mixture cooked with shallots, garlic, and herbs.
• Adds moisture and an intense umami punch.

Prosciutto

• Thin slices of prosciutto wrap around the beef and duxelles.
• Adds a salty, savory layer that also prevents soggy pastry.

Egg Wash

• 1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water.
• This creates a beautiful golden crust.

Seasonings and Fresh Herbs

• Salt, pepper, thyme, parsley, and a dash of Dijon mustard.

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

This dish is only as good as your beef, so don’t skimp here. Go for filet mignon or tenderloin medallions—these cuts are lean, tender, and cook quickly. For mini Wellingtons, aim for pieces that are about 1.5 to 2 inches thick and roughly 2 inches in diameter. That way, they’ll cook to medium-rare in the same time the pastry turns golden and flaky.

When selecting beef:

• Look for marbling: A bit of fat equals flavor.
• Uniform shape: Ensures even cooking.
• High-grade quality: Choose USDA Prime or Choice if available.

Pat the beef dry before seasoning—it helps the sear and locks in flavor.

How to Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles

This is where the magic happens. The mushroom duxelles adds earthy, savory depth to your Wellingtons.

Here’s how to make it:

1. Finely chop mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix).
2. Sauté shallots and garlic in butter or olive oil until translucent.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the mushrooms release their moisture, keep cooking until it evaporates and mixture becomes paste-like.
5. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and a splash of white wine (optional).
6. Remove from heat and let cool completely before assembling.

Pro Tip: Use a food processor for a fine, consistent texture.

How to Sear the Beef Properly

Searing is non-negotiable. It locks in juices and adds deep flavor.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat.
• Add a touch of oil with a high smoke point (like canola or avocado oil).
• Sear each piece of beef 30-45 seconds per side until browned.
• Don’t forget the edges!
• Rest the seared beef on a plate and brush with a little Dijon mustard for tang and moisture.

Let the beef cool before wrapping so it doesn’t steam the pastry.

Wrapping Tips for the Perfect Mini Wellington

Assembly is where your culinary skills shine—don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks.

Wrapping Order:

1. Lay out a piece of plastic wrap.
2. Add prosciutto slices (slightly overlapping).
3. Spread a thin layer of duxelles.
4. Place the beef medallion on top.
5. Wrap everything tightly using the plastic wrap—think of it like rolling sushi.
6. Chill the wrapped beef log for at least 15-20 minutes.

This step helps the shape hold and ensures the puff pastry stays crisp.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mini Beef Wellington

Let’s dive into the full cooking process. Take your time and follow each step carefully to get the best results.

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Cut beef tenderloin into individual portions, about 2–3 inches thick. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Sear the beef in a hot pan with oil for 1–2 minutes on all sides until browned. Remove and let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Mushroom Duxelles

Finely chop mushrooms and cook them in a pan with butter over medium heat. Stir often until all moisture evaporates and the mixture becomes thick and paste-like. Season lightly and let it cool.

Step 3: Lay Out the Prosciutto

On a sheet of plastic wrap, slightly overlap slices of prosciutto to form a rectangle large enough to wrap one piece of beef. Spread a thin, even layer of mushroom duxelles over the prosciutto.

Step 4: Wrap the Beef

Place the cooled beef in the center. Use the plastic wrap to roll the prosciutto tightly around the beef, sealing it completely. Twist the ends to secure.

Step 5: Chill the Wrapped Beef

Refrigerate the wrapped beef for at least 20–30 minutes. Chilling helps it hold its shape and prevents soggy pastry.

Step 6: Roll in Puff Pastry

Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Remove plastic wrap from the beef and place it on the pastry. Wrap tightly, sealing edges underneath. Trim excess pastry if needed.

Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash

Place the wrapped beef seam-side down on a lined baking tray. Brush all over with beaten egg for a golden finish. Optional: score lightly for decoration.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crisp. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making Ahead and Freezing

Got a party coming up? Good news—Mini Beef Wellingtons are perfect for prepping ahead.

• Make Ahead: You can prep up to the point of wrapping in puff pastry. Store them tightly wrapped in the fridge for 24 hours.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze unbaked Wellingtons after wrapping. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag.
• Bake from Frozen: Just add 5–7 minutes to your baking time (no need to thaw).

These are lifesavers during the holidays or when hosting dinner parties.

How to Serve Mini Beef Wellington

Presentation matters, and Mini Beef Wellingtons are the star of the show. Here’s how to serve them like a pro:

• Appetizer Style: Serve whole with toothpicks or halved on a platter.
• Dinner Style: Plate one or two with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze makes them pop.

Serve them warm and crisp—straight from the oven is best!

Side Dishes That Pair Well

These rich, buttery parcels deserve the right sidekick. Try pairing with:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Honey Glazed Carrots
• Sautéed Green Beans
• Red Wine Reduction Sauce
• Arugula Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir also complements the flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned cooks can make these slip-ups:

• Overcooking the Beef: Always sear briefly—don’t cook it through before baking.
• Not Cooling the Filling: Hot ingredients will make the pastry soggy.
• Using Thin Pastry: Too thin and it won’t puff; too thick and it won’t cook through.
• Skipping the Chill Step: You need to chill before baking to prevent leaking and misshaping.
• Cutting Into Them Too Early: Let them rest after baking to keep the juices inside.

Avoiding these mistakes will take your Mini Beef Wellingtons from good to unforgettable.

FAQs about Mini Beef Wellington Recipe

1. Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes! You can try pork tenderloin, chicken breast, or even portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

2. How do I know when the beef is cooked to medium-rare?

Use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 125°F (52°C) after baking.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free puff pastry if available and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

4. What sauce goes well with Mini Beef Wellington?

Red wine reduction, peppercorn sauce, or a simple Dijon cream sauce are great options.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the pastry crispy.

Final Thoughts

Mini Beef Wellingtons are a perfect blend of elegance and comfort. They may look fancy, but with this step-by-step guide, they’re totally doable at home—even for beginners. Whether you’re hosting a party or planning a quiet dinner, this dish will leave your guests impressed and your kitchen full of amazing aromas. Just take your time, follow each step, and don’t forget to enjoy the process.