Air Fryer Beef Wellington: An Easy & Elegant Dinner!
Craving a show-stopping dinner without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This Air Fryer Beef Wellington recipe delivers all the deliciousness and elegance of a classic beef wellington in a fraction of the time. Perfectly cooked beef tenderloin wrapped in flaky puff pastry, all thanks to the magic of your air fryer. Forget complicated techniques and fussy ingredients; this recipe is surprisingly easy to master, even for beginner cooks. It’s also a budget-friendly way to enjoy a gourmet meal. We’re talking restaurant-quality flavour at a fraction of the price and ready in under an hour. Dinner just got a major upgrade!
This recipe is perfect for a special occasion dinner or when you, are feeling a little fancy. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and will impress your family and friends. Plus, cleanup is a breeze, which is always a win in my book! Whether you’re looking for healthy dinner ideas, a quick and satisfying meal, or just a delicious way to use your air fryer, this recipe has you covered. So, ditch the takeout menu and let’s get cooking!
And for those of you looking for cheap dinners for a family, beef tenderloin may seem extravagant, but buying a smaller piece specifically for this recipe will result in a surprisingly affordable meal that feels incredibly luxurious. Don’t let the fancy name intimidate you; this is one of the easiest air fryer recipes you’ll ever try! We’ve tested it over and over again, so it is perfect for any occasion.
Who doesn’t want easy weeknight dinners? If you are looking for something fast and simple without sacrificing taste, this is the recipe for you!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Beef Wellington
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour – perfect for busy weeknights.
- Impressive Flavor: All the deliciousness of traditional beef wellington without the fuss.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the combination of tender beef and flaky pastry.
- Budget-Friendly: A luxurious meal that won’t break the bank.
- Easy Cleanup: The air fryer makes cleaning a breeze.
- Healthier Option: Using the air fryer reduces the need for excessive oil.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Beef Wellington
- 1 lb Beef Tenderloin, cut into 4 equal portions
- 1 sheet Puff Pastry, thawed
- 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 4 slices Prosciutto
- 4 tbsp Mushroom Duxelles (recipe below, or store-bought)
- 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Olive Oil spray
Mushroom Duxelles:
- 8 oz Cremini Mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme, chopped
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Substitutions:
- Beef Tenderloin: You can use sirloin steak as a more affordable alternative, but the tenderloin really provides the best texture.
- Prosciutto: Use cooked ham or even bacon.
- Puff Pastry: Gluten-free puff pastry can be used for a gluten-free version.
- Mushroom Duxelles: If you don’t like mushrooms, use caramelized onions instead.
How to Make Air Fryer Beef Wellington
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add mushrooms and thyme, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the mushrooms are softened and the liquid has evaporated (about 8-10 minutes). Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Beef: Season the beef tenderloin portions with salt and pepper. Then, in a hot pan, sear each side for 1-2 minutes. Do not overcook. Let the beef cool briefly.
- Assemble the Wellingtons: Lay out the puff pastry sheet and cut into 4 equal squares. Spread each square with Dijon mustard. Place a slice of prosciutto on top of the mustard, followed by a spoonful of mushroom duxelles. Place a seared beef tenderloin portion on top of the duxelles.
- Wrap the Wellingtons: Carefully wrap the puff pastry around the beef, ensuring all sides are sealed tightly. Crimp the edges with a fork to secure them.
- Egg Wash: Brush the top of each wellington with beaten egg wash. This will give it a nice golden color.
- Air Fry: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the beef wellingtons in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
- Cook: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the beef reaches your desired internal temperature (135°F for medium-rare). Use a meat thermometer to check.
- Rest: Let the beef wellingtons rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the beef is cooked to your liking.
- Ensure Puff Pastry is Cold: Cold puff pastry will result in a flakier crust.
- Beef Options: Try searing the beef with garlic and rosemary for even more flavor.
- Vegan Variation: Use plant-based “beef” and vegan puff pastry for a vegan version. Substitute mashed lentils mixed with herbs for the mushroom duxelles.
Serving Suggestions
This Air Fryer Beef Wellington is a showstopper on its own, but here are some delicious sides to complete the meal:
- Roasted Asparagus: A simple and healthy side that pairs perfectly with the richness of the beef.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Green Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: A light and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the wellington.
- Red Wine Reduction Sauce: Elevate the dish with a classic sauce made from red wine, beef broth, and herbs.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory, these carrots complement the savory elements of the dish beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover Air Fryer Beef Wellington in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
- Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Reheat the wellington for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Reheat the wellington on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
FAQ about Air Fryer Beef Wellington
Q: Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
A: It’s best to use thawed beef for this air fryer beef wellington recipe. Frozen beef can release excess moisture during cooking, which can result in a soggy crust.
Q: How do I ensure the puff pastry is cooked through?
A: Make sure your air fryer is at the correct temperature and that the wellingtons are not overcrowded, and don’t forget to check the internal temperature using a thermometer. If the crust is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil during the last few minutes of cooking.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the wellingtons and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. These are great Easy Air Fryer Meals Healthy for a busy week.
Q: Can I use a different type of mushroom for the duxelles?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello. Just be sure to chop them finely.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for those looking for crockpot meals?
A: While this particular beef wellington recipe is designed for the air fryer, if you’re interested in simpler meals, you might like checking out some other recipes.
Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Beef Wellington
There you have it – a simple, elegant, and utterly delicious Air Fryer Beef Wellington that’s sure to impress. This recipe proves that you don’t need to be a seasoned chef to create gourmet meals at home. Whether you need some new air fryer recipes or simply a show-stopping dish, this might just be the answer. So, fire up your air fryer and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen!
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Air Fryer Beef Wellington
Equipment
- Air Fryer,
- skillet,
- Fork
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 lb Beef Tenderloin cut into 4 equal portions
- 1 sheet Puff Pastry thawed
- 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 4 slices Prosciutto
- 4 tbsp Mushroom Duxelles (recipe below, or store-bought)
- 1 Egg beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Olive Oil Spray for spraying air fryer basket
Mushroom Duxelles Ingredients
- 8 oz Cremini Mushrooms finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add mushrooms and thyme, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the mushrooms are softened and the liquid has evaporated (about 8-10 minutes). Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Beef: Season the beef tenderloin portions with salt and pepper. Then, in a hot pan, sear each side for 1-2 minutes. Do not overcook. Let the beef cool briefly.
- Assemble the Wellingtons: Lay out the puff pastry sheet and cut into 4 equal squares. Spread each square with Dijon mustard. Place a slice of prosciutto on top of the mustard, followed by a spoonful of mushroom duxelles. Place a seared beef tenderloin portion on top of the duxelles.
- Wrap the Wellingtons: Carefully wrap the puff pastry around the beef, ensuring all sides are sealed tightly. Crimp the edges with a fork to secure them.
- Egg Wash: Brush the top of each wellington with beaten egg wash. This will give it a nice golden color.
- Air Fry: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the beef wellingtons in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
- Cook: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the beef reaches your desired internal temperature (135°F for medium-rare). Use a meat thermometer to check.
- Rest: Let the beef wellingtons rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
