Name: Mini Beef Wellington with Creamy Horseradish Sauce Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Beef (filet mignon or tenderloin) (Substitute with lamb or chicken if preferred.); 1 cup Mushroom Duxelles (Consider roasted vegetables or lentils for vegetarian option.); 1 cup Creamy Horseradish Sauce (Adjust horseradish to your spice preference.); 1 sheet Puff Pastry (Store-bought is convenient.); 1 large Egg Wash (Milk can be used as non-dairy alternative.)

As I was whisking up a quick dinner the other night, I overheard my friend raving about an elegant appetizer that had made its way to the center of the party table—Mini Beef Wellington with Creamy Horseradish Sauce. Intrigued, I set out to recreate these bite-sized wonders that effortlessly elevate any occasion. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; whether you’re hosting a lavish gathering or simply indulging on a cozy night in, these Wellingtons promise to impress. With a luscious filling wrapped in flaky puff pastry and the zesty kick of horseradish sauce, they’re not just visually stunning but incredibly customizable for every palate and dietary need, from vegetarian options to different meats. Curious about how to create these delightful appetizers that will have your guests clamoring for more? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why is this Beef Wellington a must-try?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite of the Mini Beef Wellington blends savory beef with earthy mushrooms, topped off by a zesty horseradish sauce. Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for parties, these appetizers will have your guests impressed and asking for seconds! Versatile Options: You can easily switch up fillings for dietary preferences, making it suitable for everyone, including vegetarians. Incredible Texture: The golden, flaky pastry encases a juicy, tender bite – it’s a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Plus, if you’re short on time, check out my Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes for another quick, flavorful delight! Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with this show-stopping recipe!

Mini Beef Wellington Ingredients

Crafting the perfect Mini Beef Wellington with Creamy Horseradish Sauce requires a harmonious blend of quality ingredients.

For the Filling

Beef (filet mignon or tenderloin) – This choice of meat delivers unmatched richness and flavor; substitute with lamb or chicken for an exciting twist.
Mushroom Duxelles – Infuses the Wellingtons with umami depth; consider roasted vegetables or lentils for a delightful vegetarian option.
Creamy Horseradish Sauce – This zesty sauce adds a beautiful contrast to the beef; feel free to adjust the horseradish to your spice preference.

For the Pastry

Puff Pastry – A flaky, buttery texture that bakes to golden perfection; using store-bought pastry saves you time without sacrificing quality.
Egg Wash – Provides a shiny finish on your baked pastry; milk can be used as a non-dairy alternative for this step.

With these pivotal ingredients for your Mini Beef Wellington with Creamy Horseradish Sauce, you’re just steps away from creating an elegant appetizer that’s bound to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mini Beef Wellington with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Begin by preheating your stovetop over medium-high heat and adding a splash of oil to the pan. Sear the beef fillets for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until a rich brown crust forms. Once browned, transfer the fillets to a plate and allow them to cool at room temperature, ensuring they remain juicy for the Mini Beef Wellington.

Step 2: Make the Mushroom Duxelles
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add finely chopped shallots and mushrooms. Sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is fragrant and all moisture has evaporated. The duxelles should have a thick consistency at this point, providing a flavorful layer within your Mini Beef Wellington.

Step 3: Assemble the Wellingtons
Roll out the chilled puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch in thickness. Cut the pastry into squares large enough to encompass the beef and mushroom mixture. Place a spoonful of the duxelles in the center of each pastry square, followed by a beef fillet, and fold the pastry around the filling, sealing the edges with a little water.

Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Using a pastry brush, carefully apply the egg wash over the top of each assembled Wellington. This step is crucial as it will give the pastry a beautiful golden color once baked, enhancing the elegant appearance of your Mini Beef Wellington with Creamy Horseradish Sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Wellingtons
Arrange your assembled Wellingtons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Watch closely, as a perfect bake will yield a flaky exterior with tender beef inside.

Step 6: Serve with Horseradish Sauce
Once baked, remove the Mini Beef Wellingtons from the oven and let them cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Slice each Wellington into bite-sized pieces if desired and serve them warm alongside the creamy horseradish sauce. This finishing touch complements the rich flavors and adds a delightful zing to your elegant appetizer.

Storage Tips for Mini Beef Wellington

Fridge: Keep Mini Beef Wellington in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the pastry’s texture and prevents sogginess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked Wellingtons wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen for convenience without thawing.

Reheating: If stored baked Mini Beef Wellington, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Serve with creamy horseradish sauce for maximum flavor.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the Wellingtons in advance and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking, saving time on party day while still delivering an elegant treat.

What to Serve with Mini Beef Wellington with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

Create a delightful spread that perfectly complements these elegant bites, offering a feast for the senses.

Fresh Arugula Salad: Bright and peppery, this salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich beef, enhancing every bite.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweet and earthy, they provide a satisfying balance with roasted carrots and parsnips that echo the umami of the duxelles.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and buttery, these mashed potatoes are perfect for capturing that creamy horseradish sauce, making each mouthful divine.

For an additional touch, serve with a side of garlic green beans for a crunchy texture and vibrant color. Feel free to drizzle a simple lemon vinaigrette for a bright finish!

Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the beef and the mushroom filling.
Chocolate Éclairs: For dessert, these light pastries filled with rich cream provide a sweet finish, celebrating the elegance of your gathering.

Expert Tips for Mini Beef Wellington

Room Temperature Beef: Allow your beef to reach room temperature before searing; it ensures even cooking and a perfect, juicy center.
Avoid Overcooking: Sear the beef to a nice brown crust but remember; it should remain medium-rare for the best texture in your Mini Beef Wellington.
Sharp Knife Usage: Use a sharp knife when slicing the Wellingtons post-baking to maintain clean, beautiful edges that highlight their elegant layers.
Freezing for Convenience: Consider preparing unbaked Wellingtons in advance and freezing them. Bake directly from frozen when you’re ready for freshly made appetizers.
Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to mix up your fillings! Different meats or a vegetarian medley can tailor this dish to various dietary preferences, keeping your appetizers exciting.

Mini Beef Wellington with Creamy Horseradish Sauce Variations

Feel free to customize your Mini Beef Wellington recipe with these delightful twists that will cater to every taste and preference.

Lamb Alternative: Substitute beef with minced lamb for a unique flavor profile that infuses a hint of game and richness.
Vegetarian Twist: Swap the beef and duxelles with a hearty mix of roasted vegetables and lentils for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Mushroom Medley: Experiment with different mushrooms such as shiitake or portobello for varied earthy flavors in your duxelles.
Herb-Infused Duxelles: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the duxelles for an aromatic upgrade that enhances every bite.
Spicy Kick: Elevate the creamy horseradish sauce with a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to ignite your taste buds with heat.
Mustard Sauce Variation: Instead of horseradish, try a smooth mustard aioli for a tangy and creamy accompaniment that pairs beautifully with the beef.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans within the filling for an unexpected crunch and depth of flavor.
Gourmet Sauce: Serve with a rich red wine reduction instead of the horseradish sauce for a decadent twist that adds luxe to your appetizer.

For those seeking more savory delights, consider pairing your Wellingtons with a fresh salad or exploring my delicious Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes to create a well-rounded meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Mini Beef Wellington with Creamy Horseradish Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef fillets and mushroom duxelles up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers once cooled. The assembled Wellingtons can also be made ahead and frozen—just freeze them before baking for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, brush with egg wash and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a delicious, fresh taste. This strategy not only saves time on busy days but ensures your appetizers remain just as delightful as when freshly made!

Mini Beef Wellington with Creamy Horseradish Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect beef for my Mini Beef Wellington?
Absolutely! I recommend choosing a filet mignon or tenderloin for their tenderness and rich flavor. Look for cuts that are bright red without any dark spots, which indicates freshness. If you prefer a different meat, you can easily substitute with minced lamb or chicken.

Can I prepare Mini Beef Wellingtons in advance?
Very! You can absolutely prepare these elegant appetizers ahead of time. Assemble the Wellingtons and place them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, for longer storage, freeze unbaked Wellingtons wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just bake them directly from frozen when you’re ready to serve!

How should I store leftover Mini Beef Wellingtons?
To keep those flavors intact, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the pastry’s crispness and prevent it from becoming soggy. If you’d like to reheat, pop them back into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven texture.

What should I do if my pastry doesn’t bake evenly?
If you notice uneven baking, it may be due to the oven temperature being inaccurate or overcrowding the baking sheet. Ensure your oven thermometer is properly calibrated and arrange the Wellingtons with enough space between them for air circulation. Also, you can rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking to promote even browning.

Are there any dietary considerations for the Mini Beef Wellington?
Certainly! If you have guests with dietary restrictions, you can create a vegetarian version by substituting the beef and mushroom duxelles with a mix of roasted vegetables or lentils. Always check the ingredients in your puff pastry if you’re dealing with allergies, and remember that some egg washes can be replaced with milk for a dairy-free option.

How can I adjust the horseradish sauce for different tastes?
The horseradish sauce can be tailored to suit everyone’s palate! If someone prefers less spice, use fewer tablespoons of horseradish or mix it with a bit of sour cream for a milder taste. For those who crave more heat, a touch of extra horseradish or even a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile, ensuring every guest finds their perfect bite!