Quick Answer: 220°C = 425°F
Gordon's Wellington starts at 220°C which equals 425°F in American ovens.
🔪 Gordon's Key: "Hot oven, cold Wellington" - Fridge to 425°F oven immediately
Gordon's Wellington Temperature Stages
Stage 1: Sear Beef
Pan temperature before wrapping
Very Hot
Until all sides caramelized
Stage 2: Initial Bake
First 15-20 minutes
220°C = 425°F
Golden pastry
Stage 3: Finish
If needed for larger Wellington
180°C = 350°F
Prevent over-browning
🌡️ Gordon's Internal Temperature Standards (US)
Rare
Gordon's minimum
Medium-Rare
Gordon's perfect
Medium
"Ruined" - Gordon
Remove at 5°F below target - it continues cooking while resting
Avoid Gordon's Wrath - Common US Oven Mistakes
"It's f***ing soggy!" - Bottom not crispy
US Problem: Bottom heating elements weaker than UK
Gordon's Fix: Start on preheated sheet pan on lowest rack, move up after 10 min
"The pastry's raw!" - Inside not cooked
US Problem: Convection fans too aggressive
Gordon's Fix: Use conventional setting, not convection. 425°F full time.
"Where's the bloody pink?!" - Overcooked beef
US Problem: Ovens run hotter than displayed
Gordon's Fix: Use probe thermometer, pull at 125°F internal
Wellington Size & Timing Guide (425°F)
| Wellington Size | Weight | Time at 425°F | Rest Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual | 6-8 oz | 15-18 min | 5 min |
| Classic (serves 4-6) | 2-3 lbs | 25-30 min | 10 min |
| Large (serves 8) | 4-5 lbs | 35-40 min | 15 min |
Gordon's Pro Tips for US Kitchens
Duxelles Must Be Bone Dry
US mushrooms have more water. Cook 5 min longer than UK recipes say.
Chill Between Every Layer
US kitchens warmer. 30 min freezer between each wrap stage.
Egg Wash Twice
US ovens drier. Double egg wash for Gordon's glossy finish.
Score Deeper
US puff pastry thicker. Score 1/4 inch deep for proper rise.