If you have a soft spot for savory pastries that combine earthy flavors with creamy textures, you will adore this Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe. It brings together tender, sautéed mushrooms and sweet shallots with the tangy richness of herbed goat cheese, all nestled inside a golden, flaky puff pastry. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of textures along with subtle herbal notes that make these tarts feel truly special. Whether you are hosting friends, planning a cozy lunch, or just want to treat yourself, this recipe delivers an easy yet impressive dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delightful tarts, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a key role in layering the flavors and textures. From the buttery puff pastry that provides an irresistible crunch to the fresh thyme that adds aromatic depth, every element is essential in crafting this savory masterpiece.
- Puff pastry (1 sheet, thawed): The flaky, buttery base that holds all the delicious fillings together perfectly.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds subtle richness and helps sauté the shallots and mushrooms beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Enhances the flavor and creates a silky surface for cooking the vegetables.
- Cremini or mixed mushrooms (2 cups, sliced): Provide an earthy, meaty texture that forms the star of the filling.
- Shallots (2 medium, thinly sliced): Bring a mild sweetness and delicate aroma that complements the mushrooms.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the richness.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and layers subtle warmth to the tart.
- Fresh thyme leaves (1 teaspoon): Imparts a bright, herbal note that elevates the savory filling.
- Herbed goat cheese (4 ounces, crumbled): Creamy and tangy cheese enriched with herbs that melt beautifully on top.
- Egg (1, beaten): Used as egg wash to give the pastry edge a stunning golden finish.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1 teaspoon, optional): Adds a fresh burst of color and flavor when sprinkled on just before serving.
How to Make Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into four equal rectangles. Place them onto your baking sheet, then gently score a 1/2-inch border around each, taking care not to cut all the way through. This border will help the edges puff up beautifully during baking. Prick the centers of each rectangle with a fork; this prevents unwanted puffing in the middle.
Step 2: Sauté the Shallots and Mushrooms
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter together until melted and shimmering. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook for about 2 minutes until they start to soften and release their sweetness. Next, add the sliced mushrooms, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and most of the moisture has evaporated, concentrating the flavor.
Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs and Assemble
Stir the fresh thyme leaves into the mushroom and shallot mixture and remove the skillet from heat. Spoon this fragrant filling generously within the scored borders of each puff pastry rectangle. Top each tart with crumbled herbed goat cheese, distributing it evenly to ensure every bite is luscious and creamy.
Step 4: Brush and Bake
Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg to create a shiny, golden crust during baking. Place the tarts in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and beautifully golden. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbrown.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, give your tarts a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of green and a fresh herbal lift. Serve warm or at room temperature to enjoy every element at its best.
How to Serve Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of fresh parsley or a few thyme leaves scattered on top adds a lovely visual touch and fresh aroma that complements the rich filling. You might also consider a tiny drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to elevate each bite even more.
Side Dishes
These tarts work beautifully alongside a crisp, lightly dressed green salad or a bowl of bright tomato soup for a well-rounded meal. The earthiness of the mushrooms and the tang of the goat cheese pair perfectly with fresh, vibrant greens or a zesty vinaigrette.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun appetizer spread, cut the tarts into smaller bite-sized squares and arrange them on a wooden board with fresh herbs and olives. You can also serve each tart with a small ramekin of tangy mustard or balsamic reduction for dipping, adding an extra burst of flavor that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though they’re usually too good not to finish), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the crispness of the puff pastry and keep the flavors vibrant.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked assembled tarts by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the tarts in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of herbed goat cheese?
Absolutely! While herbed goat cheese adds a lovely tang and herbaceousness, you can substitute plain goat cheese and mix in your favorite fresh herbs or swap for cream cheese with herbs for a milder flavor.
What mushrooms work best in this recipe?
Cremini mushrooms are ideal for their earthy flavor and firm texture, but you can mix in shiitake, button, or oyster mushrooms for added depth and variety.
How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Scoring the pastry and pricking the center before adding the filling helps reduce puffing in the middle and prevents sogginess. Also, cook the mushroom mixture until most moisture evaporates to keep the pastry crisp.
Can these tarts be made vegan?
With some swaps, yes! Use vegan puff pastry, replace butter with plant-based margarine or oil, and choose a vegan cheese alternative. Cook the vegetables as directed and skip the egg wash or use a plant milk wash instead.
Are these tarts suitable for serving as appetizers or a light meal?
Definitely! These Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe make elegant appetizers for guests or a satisfying light lunch when paired with a fresh salad.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress with minimal fuss, the Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe is a perfect choice. Its combination of simple, fresh ingredients baked into golden puff pastry creates a dish that feels both rustic and refined. I can’t wait for you to try making these tarts and discover how effortlessly they brighten any occasion with their rich flavor and inviting aroma.
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Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 tarts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these elegant Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts featuring flaky puff pastry topped with a savory sauté of cremini mushrooms, shallots, and fresh thyme, finished with creamy herbed goat cheese. Perfect as a sophisticated appetizer or a light lunch, these tarts offer a harmonious blend of earthy and tangy flavors with a crisp golden crust.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry Base
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Mushroom Shallot Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cups cremini or mixed mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 medium shallots (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Topping
- 4 ounces herbed goat cheese (crumbled)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut into 4 equal rectangles. Place the rectangles on the baking sheet and lightly score a 1/2-inch border around each tart without cutting through the pastry. Prick the centers with a fork to prevent excessive puffing during baking.
- Sauté Shallots and Mushrooms: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter until melted and combined. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened. Then add the sliced mushrooms, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender, about 6–8 minutes.
- Add Herbs: Stir the fresh thyme leaves into the mushroom mixture and remove the skillet from heat to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Tarts: Spoon the cooked mushroom and shallot mixture evenly within the scored borders on each puff pastry rectangle, keeping the filling inside the edges. Top each tart generously with the crumbled herbed goat cheese. Brush the exposed edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the tarts for 18–20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden brown, and crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the tarts from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature as an elegant appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- You can substitute plain goat cheese and customize with your preferred fresh herbs such as chives, thyme, or rosemary.
- These tarts are versatile and can be served either warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for make-ahead entertaining.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a satisfying light lunch or serve individually as an elegant appetizer at parties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
