Description
Beef Wellington is a show-stopping centerpiece that combines tender beef fillet, savory mushroom duxelles, and flaky puff pastry into one luxurious dish. Traditionally served for special occasions, holidays, or dinner parties, this classic recipe is as impressive in presentation as it is in flavor. Every bite offers a perfect balance of juicy beef, earthy mushrooms, and buttery pastry.
Ingredients
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2 lb (900g) center-cut beef tenderloin (filet mignon), trimmed
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
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1 lb (450g) mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix), finely chopped
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 shallots, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
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4 oz (115g) prosciutto or Parma ham slices
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1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
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1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
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Flour, for rolling pastry
Instructions
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Prepare the beef: Pat tenderloin dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over high heat. Sear beef on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side, until browned. Remove, cool slightly, then brush with Dijon mustard. Set aside.
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Make the mushroom duxelles: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add mushrooms, shallots, garlic, and thyme. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until mixture is very dry and caramelized (about 10–12 minutes). Season with salt and pepper. Cool completely.
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Wrap with prosciutto: On a sheet of plastic wrap, lay slices of prosciutto slightly overlapping. Spread cooled mushroom duxelles evenly on top. Place seared beef on the mushrooms and carefully roll up tightly using the plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to set.
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Prepare the pastry: On a floured surface, roll out puff pastry large enough to encase the beef. Unwrap beef from plastic and place in the center of the pastry. Fold pastry over the beef, sealing edges tightly. Trim excess pastry.
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Chill and glaze: Wrap the pastry-covered beef in plastic wrap again and chill for 15 minutes. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush pastry with egg wash. Optionally, score the pastry lightly with a knife for decoration.
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Bake: Place Wellington on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until pastry is golden brown and beef registers 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare (check with a meat thermometer).
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Rest and serve: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve in thick slices with gravy, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes