Ground Beef Wellington: 1 Easy Delectable Dish

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Ground Beef Wellington has become my go-to for impressive yet ridiculously easy weeknight dinners. I remember the first time I tried making the classic beef tenderloin version – it was a disaster! But then I discovered this easy ground beef Wellington, and my life changed. The smell of the savory beef mixture and buttery puff pastry baking is pure comfort. It’s a truly simple ground beef Wellington that looks stunning on the plate, making it perfect for special occasions or just a Tuesday night treat. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Wellington

• Incredible Flavor: Savory ground beef packed with herbs and spices creates a rich taste.
• Quick Prep Time: Get this impressive dish on the table in about 20 minutes of prep.
• Budget-Friendly: A fantastic way to enjoy a classic without the high cost of beef tenderloin.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will adore this comforting and delicious meal.
• Flaky Perfection: The crisp, golden ground beef Wellington with puff pastry is simply irresistible.
• Versatile Meal: It’s elegant enough for guests but easy enough for any weeknight.
• Simplified Classic: Enjoy the beloved flavors of a traditional Wellington with this approachable recipe.
• Delicious ground beef Wellington with puff pastry that’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ground Beef Wellington Ingredients

Gathering these ground beef Wellington ingredients is the first step to culinary magic! You’ll need 1 lb (450g) ground beef, preferably an 80/20 blend for maximum flavor. We’ll also use 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and 2 cloves garlic, minced for our savory base. For moisture and depth, we have 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tsp Dijon mustard. Don’t forget 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh leaves!), 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper to season everything perfectly. To bind it all together, grab 1 large egg and 2 tbsp breadcrumbs. The star of the show is 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed, which gets gloriously golden and flaky. For the egg wash, combine 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water. You can also add optional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or cheese for extra flair!

How to Make Ground Beef Wellington

Learning how to make ground beef Wellington is easier than you think, and this recipe proves it! Get ready to create a showstopper.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, grab a large skillet and heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 lb (450g) ground beef, your sautéed onion and garlic mixture, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 large egg, and 2 tbsp breadcrumbs. Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined. Overmixing can make the beef tough, so be gentle!
3. Step 3: Shape the ground beef mixture into a compact loaf shape on a clean surface.
4. Step 4: Lightly flour your work surface and carefully roll out your thawed 1 sheet puff pastry into a rectangle large enough to encase the beef loaf. Place the beef loaf in the center of the pastry. Fold the pastry over the beef, trimming any excess, and pinch the seams to seal it tightly. Place the wrapped loaf seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This is a crucial step for a beautiful presentation in this ground beef Wellington quick recipe.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 egg yolk and 1 tbsp water to create your egg wash. Brush this mixture all over the puff pastry. You can lightly score the top with a sharp knife in a decorative pattern, being careful not to cut all the way through the pastry.
6. Step 6: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is beautifully golden brown and puffed, and the internal temperature of the beef reaches 160°F (70°C) on a meat thermometer. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible!
7. Step 7: Once baked, carefully remove the Ground Beef Wellington from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite. Slice and serve with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Wellington

Want to elevate your homemade creation? These ground beef Wellington cooking tips will help you achieve perfection every time!

• Ensure your puff pastry is properly thawed but still cold when you work with it. This helps it puff up beautifully in the oven.
• Don’t overwork the ground beef mixture; mix just until combined to keep the texture tender.
• For a beautiful golden crust, make sure to brush the entire surface of the puff pastry with the egg wash.
• Using a meat thermometer is key to ensure the beef is cooked to the perfect temperature without drying out.

What’s the secret to perfect ground beef Wellington?

The real secret to a perfect ground beef Wellington is the panade – the mixture of milk-soaked breadcrumbs and the egg. This creates a binder that keeps the filling moist and cohesive, contributing to the overall success of the best ground beef Wellington recipe.

Can I make ground beef Wellington ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the beef mixture and shape it ahead of time. Wrap the unbaked Wellington tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. For more information on food safety and preparation, you can refer to FoodSafety.gov.

How do I avoid common mistakes with ground beef Wellington?

A common pitfall is a soggy bottom; ensure your puff pastry is cold and place the Wellington seam-side down. Also, avoid overfilling the pastry, as this makes it difficult to seal properly and can lead to leaks during baking. For tips on working with puff pastry, check out this guide from King Arthur Baking.

Ground Beef Wellington Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve mastered how to make ground beef Wellington, let’s talk about what to serve alongside this delightful dish! For classic pairings, consider creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy rice pilaf to soak up any extra juices. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the rich pastry and savory beef. You could also serve it with roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips for a hearty, seasonal meal. These ground beef Wellington serving suggestions are all about creating a balanced and satisfying plate that highlights the star of the show. For more ideas on side dishes, visit our homepage for inspiration.

Ground Beef Wellington Nutritional Information

Understanding the ground beef Wellington nutritional information helps you plan your meals. This recipe is designed for satisfaction and flavor.

• Calories: 480
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more details on our data sources, please see our privacy policy.

This ground beef Wellington easy recipe is fantastic for meal prep! Once your delicious creation has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double-layer protection is key for preventing freezer burn. Store leftover baked Ground Beef Wellington in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, the best method is to place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This ensures the pastry stays as crisp as possible! If you have any questions about our recipes, feel free to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Wellington

What is ground beef Wellington?

Essentially, ground beef Wellington is a delightful and more accessible take on the classic Beef Wellington. Instead of a tenderloin, it uses seasoned ground beef, often wrapped in puff pastry. It’s a way to enjoy a similar elegant presentation and rich flavor profile without the premium price tag of beef tenderloin.

Why is ground beef Wellington popular?

Its popularity stems from being a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative to the traditional Beef Wellington. It offers that impressive look and comforting, savory taste that people love, making it a go-to for holidays and special occasions when you want something elegant but don’t want to break the bank. It’s a truly satisfying comfort food. You can learn more about the history of Beef Wellington on Wikipedia.

Can I use different types of pastry for ground beef Wellington?

While puff pastry is traditional and yields that wonderfully flaky crust, you could experiment with other pastries. A simple shortcrust pastry or even a phyllo dough could be used, though they will result in a different texture and cooking time. However, for the classic experience, puff pastry is highly recommended.

What are some common ground beef Wellington variations?

There are many ways to customize your ground beef Wellington! Some popular variations include adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrients. You can also incorporate different cheeses, like Gruyere or Parmesan, for a richer taste. Some recipes even suggest a duxelles (finely chopped mushrooms) layer between the beef and pastry for an added gourmet touch.

Ground Beef Wellington Variations You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic ground beef Wellington recipe, you can explore exciting variations to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For a different texture, consider a ground beef Wellington casserole. Instead of wrapping the beef, layer your seasoned ground beef mixture with strips of puff pastry in a baking dish. It’s a simpler approach that still delivers delicious flavor. If you prefer a more rustic presentation, a ground beef Wellington pie is another fantastic option, where the entire filling is encased in pastry and baked like a traditional meat pie. You can also experiment with adding different cheeses, like sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack, into the beef mixture for an extra creamy, cheesy hit. For a lighter touch, try incorporating finely chopped spinach or kale into the filling! For more about our commitment to transparency, please read our affiliate disclaimer.

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