Beef Wellington Bites are the ultimate party pleaser: buttery puff pastry wrapped around perfectly seared beef tenderloin, blanketed with a savory mushroom duxelles. These mini morsels take all the elegance of the classic Beef Wellington and shrink it down into irresistible, hand-held bites—making them just right for gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want to impress without all the fuss. Each bite has a gorgeous contrast of golden pastry, juicy beef, and herby mushrooms, making these Beef Wellington Bites a recipe you’ll want to revisit again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Despite their elegant appearance, the ingredients for Beef Wellington Bites are refreshingly simple and easy to find. Each element plays a vital role, from the melt-in-your-mouth beef to the aromatic mushrooms—so don’t skip a thing!
- Beef tenderloin: Choose a high-quality cut for the most tender and flavorful bites.
- Olive oil: Helps achieve a beautiful, caramelized sear on the beef cubes.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every savory note.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a surprising tang and depth that perfectly complements the rich beef.
- Unsalted butter: Rounds out the mushroom mixture and gives it luscious body.
- Shallot: Lends gentle sweetness and complexity to the duxelles filling.
- Garlic: Adds a subtle, aromatic kick for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cremini or button mushrooms: Finely chopped, they create a savory, earthy base that keeps the bites super juicy.
- Thyme leaves: Infuse the mushroom filling with fresh, herbal notes.
- Puff pastry: Flaky, golden perfection that makes these bites utterly irresistible—don’t forget to thaw it!
- Egg: A quick egg wash gives the pastry its signature sheen and color.
- Fresh parsley: Optional, but a sprinkle over the finished bites adds brightness and a pop of color.
How to Make Beef Wellington Bites
Step 1: Prep and Sear the Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Next, cube your beef tenderloin and give each piece a generous seasoning of salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet until almost smoking, then quickly sear the beef cubes—about a minute per side is all you need. You’re not looking to cook the beef through, just lock in that flavor and give them an irresistible crust. Brush each warm cube with Dijon mustard and let them cool; this little step borrows a page right from classic Beef Wellington!
Step 2: Make the Mushroom Duxelles
In the same skillet, melt your butter and toss in finely chopped shallot and garlic. Sauté these aromatics just until fragrant before adding in the mushrooms and thyme. Let them cook, stirring often, until all their moisture evaporates and what remains is a thick, savory mushroom paste, about 8–10 minutes. This concentrated duxelles filling is the real flavor bomb in your Beef Wellington Bites! Allow it to cool down completely before assembly—this will keep your puff pastry crisp.
Step 3: Assemble the Bites
Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry until it’s nice and even. Cut the pastry into 2.5-inch squares—enough to wrap each bite snugly. Place a small spoonful of the mushroom filling in the center of each square, then nestle a cooled, mustard-brushed beef cube on top. Fold up the pastry corners and pinch to seal, making sure you create a tidy little parcel. It should look like a mini, golden pillow just begging to be baked.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange your bundles seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Give them a shine by brushing with beaten egg—this step makes all the difference for color and crackle. Slide the sheet into your hot oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deeply golden. Once done, let them rest on the pan for a few minutes to cool slightly (if you can wait that long). A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley over the top adds a finishing flourish.
How to Serve Beef Wellington Bites
Garnishes
A finishing scatter of chopped fresh parsley makes the Beef Wellington Bites look as good as they taste. You could also try a dusting of flaky sea salt for even more flavor. If you want to kick it up a notch, a fine sliver of chive or even a tiny swirl of horseradish cream makes an eye-catching, delicious topper.
Side Dishes
These bites are showstoppers on their own, but they love a good supporting cast. Serve alongside crisp greens with a zippy vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or fingerling potatoes for a truly elevated appetizer spread. If you’re putting together a buffet, set them out with a selection of mustards or a creamy dipping sauce to complement their rich, savory bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Dial up the wow factor by arranging Beef Wellington Bites on a wooden board, interspersed with festive sprigs of herbs and edible flowers. For cocktail parties, skewer each bite with a decorative pick for easy grabbing. If you’re aiming for a more formal presentation, serve them on mini plates with a dollop of sauce, each bite nestled beside a bright salad or single roasted veggie.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Beef Wellington Bites (a rare occurrence!), simply let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay tasty and fresh for up to three days.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the baked or unbaked bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, pop them into a freezer bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to one month—perfect for planning ahead for your next party or craving.
Reheating
To revive that glorious puff pastry crunch, reheat the bites in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes straight from the fridge, or 15–18 minutes from frozen. The pastry will crisp nicely while the beef gently heats through without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for Beef Wellington Bites?
While beef tenderloin is classic for its tenderness and rich flavor, you can substitute another tender cut like sirloin in a pinch. Just ensure the pieces are small and not too fatty for best results.
Can I make Beef Wellington Bites in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the mushroom duxelles and sear the beef cubes a day ahead, then assemble and bake just before serving. You can also assemble the bites, refrigerate them, and bake right before your event for maximum freshness.
Is it possible to make these bites vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the beef for roasted or grilled veggies like eggplant or portobello mushrooms, and follow the same wrapping and baking process. You’ll still get beautiful, savory bites.
How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
Be sure the mushroom duxelles and beef cubes are completely cooled before assembling. Any steam or moisture trapped inside the pastry will cause it to go soggy, so allow plenty of cooling time and avoid overfilling.
Can I add cheese or other flavors to Beef Wellington Bites?
Of course! A sliver of blue cheese, strong cheddar, or even prosciutto wrapped around the beef can be delicious twists. Just keep additions thin so the pastry doesn’t burst.
Final Thoughts
Once you serve a tray of Beef Wellington Bites, you’ll quickly see why this recipe is a go-to for so many festive occasions. Each bite is packed with elegance and comfort—perfect for making memories with your favorite people. Give these Beef Wellington Bites a try and get ready for compliments all around!
Print
Beef Wellington Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 48 minutes
- Yield: 20 bites 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Beef Wellington Bites are a delightful twist on the classic dish, featuring tender beef cubes nestled in a savory mushroom duxelles, all encased in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for parties or special occasions!
Ingredients
Beef:
- 1 lb beef tenderloin (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Mushroom Duxelles:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 shallot (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms (finely chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves
Assembly:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sear beef cubes: Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet, then brush with Dijon mustard.
- Prepare mushroom duxelles: Sauté shallot, garlic, mushrooms, and thyme until thickened. Let cool.
- Assemble: Roll out puff pastry, cut into squares, place mushroom mixture and beef cube, seal into bundles.
- Bake: Brush with egg wash and bake until golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy!
Notes
- You can prepare the mushroom filling and sear the beef in advance.
- For extra flavor, consider wrapping the beef cubes in prosciutto before wrapping in puff pastry.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
