Valentine Dinner Mushroom Wellington

Name: Valentine Dinner Mushroom Wellington
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, and portobello); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme; 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 sheet of puff pastry; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 egg (or egg substitute for vegans), beaten; Flour for dusting

I love to surprise my partner with a special meal during Valentine’s Day, and this Mushroom Wellington is always a hit. The flaky pastry and rich mushroom filling create a delightful combination that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. I find that when I take the time to make this dish, the flavors really shine, especially when paired with a nice red wine. It's the perfect centerpiece for our romantic dinner, and the best part? It's vegan-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it.

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:29:34.703Z

When I first attempted this Mushroom Wellington, I was amazed at how each component came together to form a satisfying dish. The secret is in the extensive variety of mushrooms I use; their umami flavor shines through and creates a depth that elevates the dish. I've experimented with different herbs and spices, and I honestly believe that a mix of thyme and rosemary is the perfect match.

One of my favorite tips is to let the filling cool completely before wrapping it in the pastry. This step not only prevents the pastry from becoming soggy but also intensifies the flavors. I've served this multiple times, and it never fails to impress, making it a staple in my Valentine’s Day repertoire.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent flavor of sautéed mushrooms and herbs
Flaky, golden-brown pastry that encases rich filling
Vegan-friendly dish perfect for all guests

The Importance of Mushroom Selection

Choosing the right mushrooms is crucial for achieving a rich, complex flavor in your Mushroom Wellington. A blend of cremini, shiitake, and portobello mushrooms not only provides varied textures but also enhances the umami profile. Cremini mushrooms are excellent for their earthy taste, while shiitake adds a noticeable depth with its smoky undertones. Portobello, with its meaty texture, rounds out the filling beautifully. If you're in a pinch, don’t hesitate to substitute with button mushrooms or whatever is fresh, but aim for a mix to maintain flavor complexity.

Once you've selected your mushrooms, it's essential to clean them properly. Use a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt instead of rinsing them under water, as mushrooms can absorb moisture and become soggy. This is key to ensuring your filling doesn't turn watery during cooking, which could compromise the texture of your Wellington.

Perfecting the Puff Pastry

The puff pastry is more than just a vessel for your mushroom filling; it plays a significant role in the final presentation and texture. Make sure to roll out the pastry on a well-floured surface to prevent it from sticking. It should be rolled out to about ¼ inch thick, as this thickness allows for proper puffing while still providing enough structure to hold in the filling. If you struggle with the pastry tearing, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten before rolling.

For a golden finish, brushing with a beaten egg on top is essential. Alternatively, for a vegan option, use a mixture of plant-based milk and a touch of maple syrup for a beautiful glaze. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory mushroom filling.

Ingredients

Mushroom Filling

500g mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, and portobello)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Wellington Assembly

1 sheet of puff pastry
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 egg (or egg substitute for vegans), beaten
Flour for dusting

Instructions

How to Prepare Mushroom Wellington

Prepare the Mushroom Filling

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the mixed mushrooms, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until mushrooms are browned and their moisture has evaporated. Set aside to cool.

Assemble the Wellington

Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Spread Dijon mustard evenly on the pastry. Spoon the mushroom mixture in the center. Fold the pastry over to encase the filling and seal the edges. Brush the top with the beaten egg.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before slicing.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the mushroom filling while cooking. This adds depth and enhances the overall taste. Don't rush the cooling of the filling
it really makes a difference in preventing a soggy bottom.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this Mushroom Wellington is that you can prepare all components ahead of time. You can make the mushroom filling up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. When you're ready to bake, simply assemble the Wellington with the chilled filling and proceed as instructed.

If you have any leftover Wellington, it stores well in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 15 minutes to maintain the flakiness of the pastry. For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled, uncooked Wellington. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be frozen for up to a month. Bake from frozen, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, consider serving your Mushroom Wellington with a side of sautéed greens such as spinach or asparagus, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. This not only enhances the plate with color but also balances the richness of the pastry and filling. A side salad with light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast, making your Valentine dinner feel complete.

Pair this dish with a nice red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or a light Merlot, to complement the earthy flavors of the mushrooms. Alternatively, for a non-alcoholic option, serve with a sparkling apple cider, which offers a hint of sweetness that works well with the savory elements of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mushroom filling a day in advance and assemble the Wellington right before baking.

→ What type of mushrooms work best?

A mix of mushrooms works best, but you can use any mushrooms you enjoy. Just ensure they are fresh and packed with flavor.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free as it uses puff pastry, but you can find gluten-free versions of puff pastry in stores.

→ Can I use a different type of pastry?

Absolutely! You can substitute puff pastry with phyllo dough or even a savory pie crust if you prefer.