If you’re looking to impress with a dish that feels sophisticated yet comes together effortlessly, this Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe is your new go-to. The combination of earthy mushrooms, sweet shallots, and creamy herbed goat cheese nestled in a flaky puff pastry is nothing short of magical. Every bite offers a perfect balance of savory richness and fresh herbaceous notes, making these tarts ideal for everything from a light lunch to an elegant appetizer at your next gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, creating layers of flavor and texture that make these tarts stand out. From the buttery puff pastry to the aromatic thyme, simplicity meets elegance with every component.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed): The golden, flaky base that brings lightness and crunch to every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the shallots and mushrooms perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides a rich depth and enhances the earthy flavors of the filling.
- 2 large shallots (thinly sliced): Offer a delicate sweetness that balances the mushrooms.
- 8 ounces cremini or baby bella mushrooms (sliced): Bring that satisfying, meaty texture and umami punch.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuse warmth and aromatic complexity.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and subtle heat.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried): Introduce a fragrant herbaceous note that ties the filling together.
- 4 ounces herbed goat cheese (crumbled): The creamy, tangy topping that melts beautifully over the mushrooms.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Helps to create a glossy, golden crust on the puff pastry edges.
- Fresh parsley or microgreens (for garnish, optional): Freshen the final presentation with a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat—this combo adds richness and prevents the shallots from sticking. Toss in the thinly sliced shallots and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and start to caramelize. Then add the mushrooms, letting them cook until golden brown and tender, about 6 to 8 minutes. Garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme go in last, giving a wonderful aroma and depth to the filling. After one more minute of cooking, remove from heat and give the mixture a moment to cool slightly so it won’t make the pastry soggy.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour your workspace and roll out the puff pastry to smooth out any creases. Cut it into four equal squares or your preferred tart shape—rectangles or circles work beautifully as well. Place the squares onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using a knife, gently score a half-inch border around the edges of each square without cutting all the way through; this scoring will help the edges to rise and stay crisp while the center holds the filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
Evenly divide your mushroom and shallot mixture among the pastry squares, keeping the filling inside the scored border—it’s like creating a little edible frame! Sprinkle the crumbled herbed goat cheese over the top, ensuring each tart has a generous layer of creamy, tangy flavor. Don’t forget to brush the edges with the beaten egg; this step is what gives your tarts that irresistible golden sheen when baked.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide your assembled tarts into a preheated 400°F oven. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, watching closely as the pastry puffs up beautifully and turns a gorgeous golden brown. When done, remove from the oven and allow the tarts to cool just slightly—it enhances the flavors and makes them easier to handle. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley or microgreens for a vibrant touch.
How to Serve Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley or a handful of peppery microgreens add a burst of color and freshness that contrast wonderfully with the earthiness of the mushrooms. For extra flair, a drizzle of balsamic reduction can elevate these tarts to a gourmet experience that’s sure to wow your guests.
Side Dishes
These tarts shine as the star of a light meal, especially when paired with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of roasted tomato soup. The acidity in those sides cuts through the richness of the goat cheese and buttery pastry, creating a balanced, satisfying plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these tarts on a wooden cutting board surrounded by small bowls of additional herbs, marinated olives, or nuts for a rustic yet elegant spread. They’re perfect for brunch buffets or as individual appetizers at dinner parties. For a playful twist, cut the tarts into smaller shapes using cookie cutters and serve them as bite-sized hors d’oeuvres with cocktail picks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover tarts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the tarts cool to preserve the freshness of the goat cheese and prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but unbaked tarts by wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure the pastry is cooked through.
Reheating
Reheat the tarts in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the pastry is crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as that can make the pastry soggy and lose its delicate flakiness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of herbed goat cheese?
Absolutely! While herbed goat cheese offers a unique tang and herbiness, you can substitute plain goat cheese mixed with your favorite fresh herbs like rosemary or basil. Alternatively, soft cheeses like feta or ricotta can work, but the flavor profile will vary slightly.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is perfectly suited for vegetarians as it contains no meat or animal-derived rennet. It’s a fantastic option for meatless appetizers or a light vegetarian brunch.
Can I make these tarts gluten-free?
To enjoy a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free puff pastry available at specialty stores or make your own gluten-free pastry base. Keep in mind that the texture might be a little different, but the flavors will remain just as delicious.
What can I do if I don’t have puff pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry, phyllo dough is a nice substitute, though it will give a different crisp and delicate texture. Alternatively, a shortcrust pastry can be used for a sturdier tart base, but it won’t have the same airy flakiness.
Can these tarts be served cold?
While best enjoyed warm for that melty goat cheese and flaky crust, these tarts can be eaten at room temperature. They make a delicious picnic treat or an easy dish to serve at room-temp gatherings.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way this Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful, elegant dish that feels both comforting and refined. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in something delicious, these tarts are so satisfying and versatile that they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite savory treat.
Print
Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 tarts
- Category: Appetizer, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts feature a flaky puff pastry base topped with a savory mixture of sautéed shallots, mushrooms, garlic, and fresh thyme, finished with creamy herbed goat cheese. Perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or elegant brunch, these tarts combine rich flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large shallots (thinly sliced)
- 8 ounces cremini or baby bella mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- 4 ounces herbed goat cheese (crumbled)
Finishing
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley or microgreens (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the tarts.
- Sauté Shallots and Mushrooms. In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and butter. Add the sliced shallots and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Then add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and tender. Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme, cooking for 1 more minute. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Prepare Puff Pastry. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut into 4 equal squares or preferred tart shapes. Transfer the squares onto the prepared baking sheet. Lightly score a ½-inch border around the edges of each square with a knife, being careful not to cut through the pastry completely.
- Assemble Tarts. Evenly distribute the cooled mushroom and shallot mixture inside the scored borders on each pastry square. Top each tart with crumbled herbed goat cheese. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to promote browning and shine.
- Bake. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the tarts for 18–22 minutes, or until the pastry has puffed and turned a golden brown color.
- Garnish and Serve. Allow the tarts to cool slightly once baked. Garnish with fresh parsley or microgreens if desired, then serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- You can substitute plain goat cheese and mix in your own chopped herbs such as rosemary or basil for a customized flavor.
- These tarts work wonderfully as an appetizer, brunch dish, or an elegant vegetarian lunch option.
- Make sure not to cut through the puff pastry when scoring the borders to ensure proper puff during baking.
- Serve warm to enjoy the full contrast of flaky pastry and creamy cheese.
