Ground Beef Wellington

Introduction

Ground Beef Wellington is a creative twist on the classic Beef Wellington, offering a flavorful, savory take that’s as satisfying as it is impressive. This dish features a tender, perfectly seasoned ground beef filling encased in layers of flaky, buttery pastry. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures—crispy, golden layers of dough paired with a rich, savory beef interior, balanced with hints of herbs, mushrooms, and seasoning that make every mouthful memorable.

I first made Ground Beef Wellington when I wanted a centerpiece that felt upscale and indulgent but was more accessible than the traditional version. Ground beef is a more budget-friendly choice, but it still delivers that luxurious experience of tender meat wrapped in a beautiful, golden crust. The earthy, aromatic layers of mushrooms, garlic, and herbs complement the beef, elevating this dish into something truly special.

What I love about this Ground Beef Wellington is its versatility. You can customize the filling with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, caramelized onions, or even a touch of cheese to add extra flavor and richness. Try adding some Dijon mustard to the mix for a subtle tangy kick. Whether served for a special dinner, holiday gathering, or a weekend feast, Ground Beef Wellington is a stunning, crowd-pleasing centerpiece that brings together comfort, sophistication, and buttery elegance in every bite.

Perfect for:

Holiday dinners
Dinner parties
Special celebrations
Festive gatherings
Meat lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why Ground Beef Wellington will become your go-to centerpiece for any celebration:

Rich and Savory Flavor: The combination of ground beef, mushrooms, and seasonings creates a robust, satisfying taste.
Golden Puff Pastry Perfection: The flaky exterior adds a delightful crunch that complements the tender filling.
Impressive Presentation: It looks elegant and gourmet, making it a standout centerpiece on any table.
Easy Customization: Add herbs, cheeses, or spinach for different flavor profiles.
Hearty and Filling: This dish is packed with protein and flavors that satisfy appetites.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the Wellington in advance and bake just before serving.
Versatile Ingredients: Use different ground meats or add vegetables to suit your taste.
Balancing Textures: A contrast of the flaky pastry, tender meat, and sautéed mushrooms.
Perfect for Any Occasion: A holiday feast, birthday dinner, or weekend brunch, it fits every gathering.
Classic British Twist: A delightful take on a classic dish with a comforting, rustic feel.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1.5 hours (including chilling time)
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 30g

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry:

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Ground Beef Filling:

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley
Sesame seeds

Ingredient Highlights

Ground Beef: Provides a rich, savory, and satisfying base for the filling.
Puff Pastry: Creates a golden, flaky exterior that adds texture and elegance.
Mushrooms: Enhance the earthy flavor profile of the beef filling.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a deep, robust umami flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ground Beef Filling:

Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
Add Mushrooms and Beef: Stir in mushrooms and cook until softened. Then add the ground beef, cooking until browned.
Season the Mixture: Add breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Puff Pastry:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll Out Pastry: On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry slightly larger than your pan size.
Spread the Filling: Place the cooled ground beef filling in the center of the pastry.

Assemble the Wellington:

Fold the Pastry: Carefully fold the pastry around the filling, sealing the edges tightly. Brush the top with a beaten egg wash.
Chill the Pastry: Place the Wellington in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before baking.

Bake the Wellington:

Bake: Place the Wellington on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Rest the Dish: Remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Ground Beef Wellington:

As a Centerpiece Main Course: Perfect for holiday dinners or festive gatherings.
With Gravy Sauce: Serve with a rich, savory gravy to enhance the flavors.
Pair with Vegetables: Accompany with roasted carrots and green beans for a complete meal.
Serve with Mustard Sauce: A tangy mustard sauce complements the robust meat filling.
As a Buffet Option: Slice into smaller pieces for buffet-style service.
Add a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh mixed green salad for balance.
Include Roasted Potatoes: A side of crispy potatoes pairs beautifully with the Wellington.
Top with Cheese: Melt a layer of cheddar or Gruyère on the pastry for a unique twist.
With Horseradish Cream: A dollop of horseradish cream adds a zesty kick.
For Elegant Entertaining: Slice and arrange on a platter with fresh parsley for a stunning presentation.

Additional Tips

Chill Pastry Thoroughly: Keeping the puff pastry cold ensures a crisp, flaky texture.
Use Quality Ground Meat: Opt for fresh, high-quality ground beef for best flavor.
Egg Wash Sealing: Brush pastry edges generously to prevent leaking during baking.
Customizable Ingredients: Add spinach, bacon, or herbs to create your unique version.
Sharp Knife for Slicing: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to cut clean slices.

Recipe Variations

Cheesy Beef Wellington: Add shredded cheese to the ground beef mixture for extra richness.
Vegetable Wellington: Swap beef for mushrooms, spinach, and kale for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Beef Wellington: Include chili flakes and cumin for a spicy twist.
Herbed Wellington: Mix fresh herbs like thyme and parsley into the filling.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry as a base substitute.
Meat Bacon-Wrapped Wellington: Add a layer of crispy meat bacon around the beef for extra flavor.
Mini Wellington Bites: Make bite-sized portions for appetizers or tapas-style servings.

Special Equipment

Baking Sheet: For even baking and easy handling.
Rolling Pin: To roll out the puff pastry smoothly.
Sharp Knife: For clean slicing and presentation.
Pastry Brush: For applying egg wash.
Skillet: For sautéing the beef filling ingredients.

FAQ Section

What is Ground Beef Wellington?
Ground Beef Wellington is a twist on the classic Beef Wellington, featuring savory ground beef encased in a flaky, golden puff pastry along with mushrooms, herbs, and seasonings for a deliciously rich experience.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground pork, ground turkey, or a mix of ground meats if you prefer a different taste or texture.
How do I ensure the pastry stays flaky?
To keep the puff pastry flaky, ensure it’s chilled before handling.
Can I make Ground Beef Wellington ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Wellington in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
What should I serve with Ground Beef Wellington?
Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a creamy mashed potato to complement the flavors and texture.
How long does it take to bake Ground Beef Wellington?
Typically, Ground Beef Wellington takes about 30-40 minutes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C), depending on the size and thickness of the pastry.
Can I freeze Ground Beef Wellington?
Yes! You can freeze it before baking or after it’s baked. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
What are the key seasonings for a flavorful Ground Beef Wellington?
Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic, thyme, oregano, and sautéed mushrooms to enhance the savory profile of the meat mixture.
How do I prevent the filling from spilling out of the pastry?
Make sure the meat mixture is properly packed but not too loose.
Can Ground Beef Wellington be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free puff pastry or phyllo dough, and double-check all your seasonings and ingredients to ensure they meet your gluten-free needs.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Wellington is a delightful twist on a classic British favorite, transforming the traditional beef wellington into a cozy, savory masterpiece filled with rich, hearty ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, and flavorful herbs—all wrapped in a golden, flaky puff pastry. Every slice offers a perfect balance of crispy, buttery layers with a tender, well-seasoned interior that’s satisfying and packed with robust flavors.

This dish is a standout centerpiece for dinners, holidays, or special gatherings. Serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat your family to something extraordinary, this Ground Beef Wellington is sure to impress.

I can’t wait to see your Ground Beef Wellington! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautifully wrapped creation. Don’t forget to drop a comment and let me know how you made it your own—I’m always excited to hear your creative twists on a classic!