Name: Holiday Beef Wellington
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: English
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef tenderloin; 8 oz mixed mushrooms, finely chopped; 4 oz duck or liver pâté; 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed); 1 egg (for egg wash); Salt and pepper (to taste); 1 tbsp olive oil

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The aroma of a perfectly baked Holiday Beef Wellington fills the air with warmth, inviting everyone to gather around the table and indulge in its rich, savory goodness. Imagine a golden pastry enveloping tender beef, mingling with earthy mushrooms and decadent pâté, creating a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just trying to impress your in-laws—yes, we’ve all been there—this dish guarantees a round of applause.

Thinking back to my first attempt at making Holiday Beef Wellington, I recall a kitchen disaster that would make any chef cringe. Picture me wrestling with dough while dodging flying flour clouds like I was in some culinary action movie. But oh, when that masterpiece emerged from the oven—glorious and golden—it was pure magic! This is a dish that doesn’t just satisfy cravings; it creates memories and brings people together like no other.

Why You'll Love This Holiday Beef Wellington

This incredible Holiday Beef Wellington transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Holiday Beef Wellington:

Beef Tenderloin: A center-cut beef tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor. Aim for about 2-3 pounds.
Mushrooms: Finely chop mixed mushrooms for depth of flavor; cremini or portobello work best.
Pâté: Opt for duck or liver pâté to add richness; spread it evenly on the beef.
Puff Pastry: Store-bought puff pastry makes life easier; just thaw it before use.
Egg Wash: Combine one egg with a tablespoon of water for that glossy finish on the pastry.

For the seasoning:

Salt & Pepper: Simple yet essential for enhancing all flavors; season generously.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Holiday Beef Wellington:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the beef tenderloin generously with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet with olive oil, sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side) to lock in those juices.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add finely chopped mushrooms and cook over medium heat until most moisture evaporates (about 5-7 minutes). Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble Your Masterpiece

Lay out your puff pastry on a floured surface. Spread a layer of pâté over the cooled mushroom mixture, then place it atop your seared beef. Roll up the pastry around it tightly and seal all edges well.

Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash

Place your wrapped beef seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Generously brush the top with egg wash to achieve that beautiful golden color during baking.

Step 5: Bake

Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of around 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.

Step 6: Serve

Let it rest for about ten minutes before slicing into thick pieces. Transfer to plates and serve alongside your favorite sides—a vibrant green vegetable medley pairs beautifully!

And there you have it—the stunning Holiday Beef Wellington! With each bite, savor that delicious combination of textures and flavors as you celebrate good company and great food!

You Must Know About Holiday Beef Wellington

This showstopping Holiday Beef Wellington delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

The key to a flawless Holiday Beef Wellington is all about timing. Start by searing the beef to lock in those juicy flavors, then prepare the mushroom duxelles while it rests. Finally, wrap everything in pastry and pop it in the oven for golden-brown perfection.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Holiday Beef Wellington! Swap out the mushrooms for spinach or add some crumbled blue cheese for a tangy twist. Different seasonings like thyme, rosemary, or even a splash of red wine can elevate your dish further.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Holiday Beef Wellington, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain its flaky crust.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Holiday Beef Wellington

This professional-quality Holiday Beef Wellington relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Creating my first Holiday Beef Wellington was an unforgettable experience; my friends’ faces lit up when they took their first bites—it felt like I had just won a cooking award right in my own kitchen!

FAQs

What is Holiday Beef Wellington?

Holiday Beef Wellington is a classic dish that features a tender beef fillet coated in a flavorful mushroom duxelles, wrapped in puff pastry, and baked to golden perfection. This elegant dish is often served during festive occasions, making it a popular centerpiece for holiday meals. The combination of savory beef and rich flavors creates a memorable dining experience, perfect for impressing family and guests alike. Traditionally accompanied by sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, Holiday Beef Wellington elevates any special occasion.

How do I make the perfect Holiday Beef Wellington?

To create the perfect Holiday Beef Wellington, start by searing your beef fillet to lock in moisture and flavor. Next, prepare the mushroom duxelles by finely chopping mushrooms and sautéing them with shallots and herbs until they form a paste. Cool the mixture before spreading it over the beef. Then, wrap everything tightly in puff pastry, ensuring there’s no air trapped inside. Bake until the pastry is golden brown and crispy. Allow it to rest before slicing for beautifully presented portions.

What are some side dishes for Holiday Beef Wellington?

When serving Holiday Beef Wellington, consider pairing it with traditional sides like roasted root vegetables, creamy garlic mashed potatoes, or sautéed green beans with almonds. A rich red wine or Madeira sauce can enhance the meal’s flavors while providing a luxurious touch. Additionally, a fresh salad with seasonal greens can balance the richness of the dish, making your holiday dinner both satisfying and visually appealing.

Can I make Holiday Beef Wellington ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components of Holiday Beef Wellington ahead of time! Sear the beef and make the mushroom duxelles a day or two in advance. Wrap the cooled beef in puff pastry just before baking to ensure optimal texture. If you need to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil after assembly; this will help maintain its quality when reheated. Just remember to adjust baking times if cooking from frozen.

Conclusion

In summary, Holiday Beef Wellington is an exquisite dish that brings joy to any festive gathering. By mastering its preparation and pairing it with delightful sides, you can create an unforgettable meal that will impress everyone at your table. Whether you’re celebrating with family or hosting friends, this classic recipe stands out as a true centerpiece for special occasions. Embrace the art of cooking this delicious Holiday Beef Wellington for your next celebration!