Ground Beef Wellington is a delicious and approachable twist on the classic beef Wellington, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe features seasoned ground beef mixed with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and a hint of garlic, all wrapped in a flaky puff pastry shell. The result is a flavorful and elegant dish with a crispy, golden crust and a juicy, savory filling. Ground Beef Wellington offers the same rich and comforting flavors of traditional beef Wellington but with a simpler preparation, making it a family-friendly meal that can impress guests without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg yolk, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Cook the Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Combine the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture with breadcrumbs and the beaten egg. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Assemble the Wellington:
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to remove any creases. Place the ground beef mixture in the center of the pastry sheet, shaping it into a log.
- Fold the pastry over the beef mixture, sealing the edges by pressing down with a fork. Trim any excess pastry and tuck the ends underneath. Place the wrapped beef Wellington seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with Egg Wash:
- Brush the top and sides of the puff pastry with the beaten egg yolk. This will give the pastry a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve:
- Slice the Ground Beef Wellington into portions and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Ground Beef Wellington is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings together the rich flavors of seasoned beef and buttery puff pastry. It’s perfect for impressing family and friends with minimal effort, providing a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
