Beef Wellington Turnover: A Hand-Held Twist on a Classic Dish

Beef Wellington Turnover takes the elegance of traditional Beef Wellington and transforms it into a delightful, convenient handheld dish. Perfect for holiday gatherings, elegant appetizers, or an impressive main course, these turnovers feature tender beef, rich mushroom duxelles, and flaky puff pastry. This recipe simplifies the classic preparation while maintaining the luxurious flavors of beef, Dijon mustard, and mushrooms. Here’s how to make these mouthwatering Beef Wellington Turnovers:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Beef Wellington Turnovers deliver a sophisticated dining experience in a simplified format. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to elevate your snack game, this recipe offers:

• Convenience: Individual portions make them easy to serve and enjoy.
• Rich Flavors: Tender beef, savory mushrooms, and buttery pastry make each bite memorable.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the filling with other ingredients like caramelized onions or spinach for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb beef tenderloin, trimmed
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• ½ cup pâté (optional for added richness)

For the Assembly:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed if frozen
• Flour for dusting
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

• Season the beef tenderloin with salt and black pepper.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
• Remove from heat and let the beef cool, then brush with Dijon mustard for a zesty flavor layer.

2. Make the Mushroom Duxelles

• In the same skillet, add the chopped mushrooms, garlic, and thyme. Cook over medium heat until the mushrooms release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
• Transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse into a coarse paste (duxelles). This will be spread over the beef for extra flavor.

3. Assemble the Turnover

• Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases.
• Spread a thin layer of mushroom duxelles over the Dijon-coated beef, and, if desired, add a layer of pâté for richness.
• Place the beef in the center of the pastry. Fold the pastry over the beef, sealing the edges with a fork or your fingers. Ensure it’s wrapped tightly for even baking.

4. Chill the Turnovers

• Place the wrapped beef turnovers on a baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps the pastry firm up and hold its shape during baking.

5. Preheat and Prepare to Bake

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Brush the chilled turnovers with a beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.

6. Bake to Perfection

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the beef reaches your desired level of doneness (about 120°F for medium-rare).
• Let the turnovers rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Slice the turnovers into smaller pieces for appetizers or serve whole as a main course.
• Arrange on a platter and serve warm for the best experience.

Tips for Success

• Customize the Filling: Add caramelized onions, sautéed spinach, or even different mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for added depth.
• Handle Puff Pastry with Care: Puff pastry warms up quickly, so if it becomes too soft, return it to the fridge to firm up before baking.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the turnovers up to the chilling step, then bake just before serving for maximum freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Wellington Turnovers make a delicious addition to a festive table. Here’s how to make the most of them:

• As Appetizers: Serve on a charcuterie board with cheeses, crackers, and fruits for a complete spread.
• Main Course Pairings: Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Dipping Sauces: Pair with horseradish cream, herb aioli, or red wine reduction for a sophisticated touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through to maintain the pastry’s crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1; Yield: 4 servings

• Calories: ~420 kcal per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 30g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fiber: 2g

Conclusion

Beef Wellington Turnovers offer a unique way to enjoy the classic elegance of Beef Wellington in a hand-held, approachable form. From their buttery puff pastry to the savory, tender beef inside, these turnovers are a guaranteed hit at gatherings, celebrations, or any time you’re in the mood for something special. Easy to make ahead and bake just before serving, these turnovers are sure to impress with their layers of flavor and flaky texture. Dive into the luxurious world of Beef Wellington – one turnover at a time!