Beef Wellington Mini has always been my go-to for special occasions, and I’ve discovered that making them bite-sized is a game-changer for parties! I remember the first time I tried making them for a holiday gathering a few years ago; the aroma of savory beef and flaky pastry filled my kitchen, and everyone was raving. This easy mini Beef Wellington recipe transforms the classic dish into delightful, individual portions that are perfect for entertaining. You’ll find this homemade mini Beef Wellington is surprisingly simple to prepare and always a showstopper. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Mini Beef Wellington
These little appetizers are seriously addictive! Here’s why you’ll be making them again and again:
- Incredible Flavor: The rich beef and savory mushroom duxelles wrapped in flaky, golden puff pastry create a taste sensation you won’t forget.
- Quick Prep Time: With just 30 minutes of prep, you can whip up these elegant bites even on a busy weeknight.
- Healthier Bite-Sized Option: Enjoying these small Beef Wellington bites means you get all the classic flavor in a more controlled, appetizer-sized portion.
- Budget-Friendly Elegance: Making your own mini Beef Wellington is significantly more affordable than buying pre-made versions, offering a luxurious feel without the splurge.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters often love these little pastry-wrapped treasures, making them perfect for family gatherings.
- Impressive Presentation: These small Beef Wellington bites look like they came straight from a gourmet bakery, guaranteed to wow your guests.
- Versatile Appetizer: Perfect for holidays, game days, or any occasion where you want a sophisticated yet easy-to-eat hors d’oeuvre.
Ingredients for Beef Wellington Mini
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating your own impressive savory puff pastry bites with beef. I’ve found that using good quality ingredients really makes a difference in the final flavor of these mini Beef Wellington appetizers.
- 1 pound beef tenderloin – choose a center cut for best results and slice into 8-10 equal portions
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard – this adds a tangy kick that complements the rich beef beautifully
- 8 ounces mushrooms, finely chopped – cremini or button mushrooms work best for the duxelles
- 2 shallots, finely chopped – they offer a milder, sweeter onion flavor than regular onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is key for that aromatic depth
- 2 tablespoons butter – for sautéing the mushroom mixture
- Salt and black pepper to taste – season generously!
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed – make sure it’s fully thawed but still cold for easy handling
- 1 egg, beaten – this is our egg wash to give the pastry a gorgeous golden sheen
How to Make Beef Wellington Mini
Ready to create these impressive little bites? Making mini Beef Wellington is easier than you think, and the results are absolutely stunning. Follow these steps for perfect, golden appetizers every time!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your beef.
- Step 2: Cut the beef tenderloin into 8-10 equal portions, aiming for about 1.5-2 ounce pieces. Season them generously with salt and black pepper. Heat a tablespoon of oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each piece of beef for about 30-60 seconds per side, just to get a nice brown crust. You’re not cooking it through, just adding color! Transfer the seared beef to a plate to cool completely. Once cool, brush each piece generously with the Dijon mustard.
- Step 3: In the same skillet (no need to wash!), melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped mushrooms, shallots, and minced garlic. Sauté until all the moisture has evaporated and the mixture is nicely browned and fragrant, about 8-10 minutes. Season this mushroom mixture, known as duxelles, with salt and pepper to your liking. Spread it out on a plate to cool completely. This ensures your pastry doesn’t get soggy.
- Step 4: Lightly flour your work surface and carefully unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 8-10 squares, each large enough to comfortably wrap around a beef portion. I find it helpful to lay a beef piece on the pastry to gauge the size.
- Step 5: Spread a spoonful of the cooled mushroom duxelles mixture onto the center of each puff pastry square. Don’t overdo it, or it will be hard to seal.
- Step 6: Place one mustard-coated beef portion on top of the mushroom mixture on each pastry square.
- Step 7: Now for the wrapping! Carefully bring the corners of the puff pastry up and over the beef, pinching them together securely in the center to seal. You can also fold the edges towards the center, ensuring there are no gaps. This is a crucial step in how to make mini Beef Wellington – a good seal prevents leaks.
- Step 8: Arrange your beautifully wrapped mini Beef Wellington appetizers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they have a little space between them so they bake evenly.
- Step 9: In a small bowl, beat the egg. Brush the tops and sides of each pastry parcel with the beaten egg wash. This gives them that gorgeous, glossy golden-brown finish as they bake.
- Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up, golden brown, and looks deliciously crisp. The exact time will depend on how rare or well-done you like your beef. For medium-rare, aim for the lower end of the time. Enjoy these amazing small Beef Wellington bites!
Pro Tips for the Best Mini Beef Wellington
Want to elevate your appetizer game? These little tricks will ensure your mini Beef Wellington are absolute showstoppers:
- Always sear your beef tenderloin portions quickly on all sides. This creates a flavorful crust and helps the meat retain its juices inside the pastry.
- Ensure your mushroom duxelles mixture is completely cooled before spreading it on the puff pastry. A warm mixture will make the pastry soggy.
- Use a good quality, cold puff pastry sheet. Keeping it cold makes it easier to handle and results in flakier layers.
- Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives your mini Beef Wellington that beautiful golden-brown, glossy finish that makes them look so appealing.
What’s the secret to perfect Mini Beef Wellington?
The secret lies in managing moisture and heat. Properly searing the beef and ensuring your duxelles are dry prevents a soggy bottom, while a good egg wash guarantees a golden crust. This makes for the best mini Beef Wellington!
Can I make Mini Beef Wellington ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble your make ahead mini Beef Wellington up to 24 hours in advance. Store them on a baking sheet, covered loosely with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator. Just brush with egg wash and bake when ready to serve.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Mini Beef Wellington?
The biggest pitfalls are a soggy bottom and overcooked beef. To avoid this, make sure your duxelles are cooked down until dry, and don’t overbake. Sear the beef just enough to brown the outside, as it will continue cooking inside the pastry.
Best Ways to Serve Beef Wellington Mini
These elegant bites are incredibly versatile! For a truly memorable fête, consider serving these Beef Wellington Mini appetizers as part of a larger spread. They pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light sparkling rosé.
For a classic presentation, arrange them on a tiered serving platter. They look stunning alongside a small bowl of horseradish cream or a tangy cranberry sauce for dipping. These are perfect for Beef Wellington for parties because they’re easy for guests to grab and mingle with. You could also serve them as a sophisticated starter before a main course, perhaps with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Nutrition Facts for Beef Wellington Mini
When enjoying these delightful mini Beef Wellington appetizers, it’s always helpful to know what you’re consuming. Each serving offers a balanced bite of richness and flavor.
- Serving Size: 1 appetizer
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your small Beef Wellington bites.
How to Store and Reheat Beef Wellington Mini
Even though these individual beef pastry parcels are best enjoyed fresh, I know life gets busy! Luckily, you can store and reheat them with great results. Once your mini Beef Wellington have cooled completely on a wire rack, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each cooled parcel tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead option!
To reheat, if they are refrigerated, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through and the pastry is crisp again. If reheating from frozen, you might need an extra 5-10 minutes, so keep an eye on them. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the pastry soggy. Enjoy your delicious homemade mini Beef Wellington whenever the craving strikes!
Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Wellington Mini
What is a mini Beef Wellington?
Simply put, a mini Beef Wellington is a smaller, bite-sized version of the classic British dish. It features a tender piece of beef tenderloin, often coated in pâté or duxelles (a mushroom mixture), wrapped in puff pastry, and baked until golden. These appetizers are perfect for parties and gatherings, offering all the decadent flavor of the original in a convenient, individual portion.
Can I use a different cut of beef for mini Beef Wellington?
While beef tenderloin is traditional and offers the most tender result, you can experiment with other cuts for your small Beef Wellington bites. However, ensure the cut is tender and can be portioned easily. Cuts like sirloin might work, but they won’t be as melt-in-your-mouth tender as tenderloin. Always trim any excess fat and connective tissue.
How do I get my mini Beef Wellington pastry crispy?
Achieving a crispy pastry for your hors d’oeuvres Beef Wellington involves a few key steps. First, make sure your mushroom duxelles mixture is cooked down until very dry and cooled completely to prevent moisture transfer. Second, ensure your puff pastry is cold when you’re working with it. Finally, baking at the correct temperature (around 400°F or 200°C) and using an egg wash will give it that beautiful golden, crisp finish.
What are the best dipping sauces for mini Beef Wellington?
These bite-sized Beef Wellington are rich and delicious on their own, but a good sauce can elevate them further! A classic choice is a horseradish cream sauce, which offers a nice spicy contrast to the savory pastry and beef. A simple red wine reduction or even a tangy Dijon mustard aioli also pairs wonderfully. For a festive touch, a cranberry or lingonberry sauce can be a delightful option, especially during the holidays.
Variations of Beef Wellington Mini You Can Try
While the classic Beef Wellington Mini is absolutely divine, don’t be afraid to get creative! These variations offer exciting twists on the beloved appetizer, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Exploring these options can lead you to discover your new favorite way to enjoy these miniature beef en croute.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the beef tenderloin for a hearty portobello mushroom cap or a dense block of halloumi cheese. Ensure the mushroom is pre-cooked and seasoned well, or pan-fry the halloumi until golden before wrapping. This makes for a fantastic vegetarian option.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely minced jalapeño to the mushroom duxelles. You could also brush the beef with a spicy mustard instead of Dijon for an extra layer of warmth.
- Herbed Pastry: Infuse your puff pastry with flavor by adding finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme directly into the dough before rolling, or mix them into the mushroom duxelles. This adds a beautiful aromatic complexity to your bite-sized Beef Wellington.
- Different Cooking Methods: While baking is standard, you can achieve a similar result using an air fryer for smaller batches. Just be sure to adjust the temperature and time as needed, and keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Beef Wellington Mini: 30 Min Prep Magic
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious mini Beef Wellington appetizers. This easy recipe creates bite-sized portions of classic Beef Wellington, perfect for parties and gatherings. These savory puff pastry bites with beef are a crowd-pleasing hors d’oeuvre.
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef tenderloin
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 8 ounces mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sear the beef tenderloin on all sides in a hot skillet. Let it cool, then brush generously with Dijon mustard.
- In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms, shallots, and garlic in butter until tender. Season with salt and pepper. Let cool.
- Lay out the puff pastry sheet and cut it into small squares, large enough to wrap the beef portions.
- Spread the mushroom mixture over the puff pastry squares.
- Place a portion of the beef tenderloin on top of the mushroom mixture.
- Wrap the puff pastry around the beef, sealing the edges.
- Place the mini Beef Wellington appetizers on a baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the beef is cooked to your desired doneness.
Notes
- You can make these ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking.
- Ensure the puff pastry is well-sealed to prevent leakage.
- Adjust baking time based on your preferred level of beef doneness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 appetizer
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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