Save Simplified Christmas Beef Wellington Bites Tender beef wrapped in golden puff pastry, infused with mushroom duxelles and festive herbs—perfect as elegant party appetizers.
I have always enjoyed serving these bites at holiday gatherings because they are both elegant and easy to eat.
Ingredients
- Beef: 400 g beef tenderloin, cut into 2 cm cubes, 1 tbsp olive oil, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Mushroom Duxelles: 200 g cremini mushrooms, finely chopped, 1 small shallot, finely minced, 1 garlic clove, minced, 1 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- Pastry: 2 sheets ready-rolled puff pastry (approx 500 g total), 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Beef:
- Pat beef cubes dry, season with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sear beef cubes for 30 seconds per side (do not cook through). Transfer to a plate and let cool.
- Make Duxelles:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallot, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until moisture evaporates and mixture is golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in thyme, season with salt and pepper. Let cool completely.
- Prepare Pastry:
- Cut puff pastry sheets into 20 squares (approx 7x7 cm each).
- Optional Mustard:
- Brush each beef cube lightly with Dijon mustard.
- Assemble Bites:
- Place a small spoonful of mushroom duxelles in the center of each pastry square. Top with a beef cube. Fold corners over to enclose the filling, pinching edges to seal. Place seam-side down on prepared baking sheet.
- Apply Egg Wash:
- Brush each parcel with beaten egg.
- Bake:
- Bake 15-18 minutes, or until pastry is golden and puffed.
- Cool and Serve:
- Cool slightly before serving warm.
Save This recipe always brings the family together, sharing bites and festive stories during the holidays.
Notes
Serve with cranberry chutney or horseradish cream for a festive touch.
Required Tools
Skillet, Sharp knife, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains: Eggs, Wheat/Gluten, Dairy (butter, pastry may contain milk). Check pastry ingredients for possible traces of nuts or soy.
Save Enjoy these elegant bites as a perfect appetizer at your next festive celebration
Recipe Guide
- → What cut of beef works best for these bites?
Beef tenderloin cut into small cubes is ideal due to its tenderness and quick searing time.
- → How do mushroom duxelles enhance the flavor?
This finely chopped mushroom mixture adds earthy depth and moisture, balancing the rich beef and crisp pastry.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate the bites before baking. Bake shortly before serving to maintain pastry crispness.
- → What alternatives are there for dietary restrictions?
Use mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead of beef for a vegetarian-friendly option with similar textures.
- → How important is the egg wash?
Brushing with beaten egg results in a shiny, golden finish and helps seal the pastry edges tightly.
- → What sides pair well with these appetizers?
Festive accompaniments like cranberry chutney or horseradish cream provide complementary tartness and heat.