If you adore rich, savory flavors wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust, then you are in for a treat with this Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe. It combines earthy mushrooms, sweet shallots, and creamy herbed goat cheese into a perfect little tart that feels both elegant and utterly comforting. Every bite brings a delightful contrast of textures and a burst of fresh, herbaceous notes that will quickly make this one of your favorite go-to dishes for entertaining or a satisfying snack anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe relies on simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients that meld beautifully together. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s adding moisture, flavor depth, or a touch of brightness to the final result.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed): Provides the crisp, flaky base that makes every bite irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness while helping to sauté the veggies.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Enhances the sauté with creamy, nutty undertones.
- 2 shallots (thinly sliced): Bring a mild sweetness that balances the earthiness of the mushrooms.
- 2 cups mushrooms (cremini or mixed, sliced): The starring ingredient adding savory depth and satisfying texture.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Introduce an aromatic zing that lifts the entire tart filling.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried): Infuses herbal complexity and freshness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the vegetables and cheese.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a little hint of warmth and spice.
- 4 ounces herbed goat cheese (softened): Creamy, tangy, and rich, the goat cheese creates the perfect savory base for the mushrooms.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Gives the puff pastry edges a beautiful golden finish.
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional): Provides a fresh pop of color and subtle herbal notes to finish.
How to Make Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry Base
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed sheet of puff pastry just slightly. Cut it into 4 equal rectangles and carefully score a ½-inch border around each one without cutting all the way through. This border will help the edges puff up beautifully during baking. Prick the centers with a fork to prevent them from rising.
Step 2: Sauté the Shallots and Mushrooms
Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the thinly sliced shallots and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and begin to turn translucent. Add the mushrooms and let them cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re golden and most of their liquid has cooked off. This step is crucial for concentrating flavors and preventing sogginess. Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute to meld all the flavors together. Remove the pan from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
Spread a generous layer of the softened herbed goat cheese within the scored borders of each puff pastry rectangle. This creamy layer will act like a flavorful glue for the mushrooms. Then, spoon the mushroom and shallot mixture evenly over the goat cheese on each tart. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden finish once baked.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the prepared tarts on your parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the puff pastry is beautifully golden, crispy, and puffed up around the edges. Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley or thyme if you like. These tarts can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme not only adds a burst of color but also elevates the herbal notes already present in the tart. For an extra touch, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can bring a little extra dimension. These simple additions transform the presentation and flavor to something truly special.
Side Dishes
Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe works wonderfully as a standalone appetizer, but if you want a fuller meal, pair them with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables or a light soup can also beautifully complement the savory, buttery tarts for a well-rounded brunch or lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
These tarts are perfect finger food for parties, but you can also serve smaller tartlets for more elegant hors d’oeuvres. Arrange on a wooden board with an assortment of cheeses, nuts, and fresh fruit for a casual grazing platter. For a fun twist, try adding caramelized onions or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top before baking for added texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of this Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe, just place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The puff pastry will soften a bit but reheating will restore some of its original crispness.
Freezing
You can prepare the tarts completely and freeze them before baking. Freeze on a tray first so they don’t stick together, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time until golden and cooked through.
Reheating
Reheat your tarts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until the pastry crisps back up nicely. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the pastry soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of herbed goat cheese?
Absolutely! While herbed goat cheese adds a lovely tang and creaminess, you can substitute with plain goat cheese, cream cheese, or ricotta if you prefer a milder flavor. Just be sure to soften it beforehand for easy spreading.
What types of mushrooms work best in this recipe?
Cremini mushrooms are a great choice due to their meaty texture and rich flavor, but mixed mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, or button can also bring wonderful variety and depth. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly.
Can I make these tarts vegan?
To veganize this Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe, use vegan puff pastry and substitute the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative. Replace the butter with a vegan margarine or oil, and for the egg wash, brush with plant-based milk mixed with a touch of maple syrup or oil for color.
How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
Sautéing the mushrooms and shallots well until most of their moisture evaporates is key to avoiding sogginess. Also, scoring the pastry border and pricking the center helps the puff pastry cook evenly and remain crisp.
Can this recipe be doubled easily?
Yes, doubling the ingredients and working in batches works perfectly. Just make sure to give the puff pastry enough space on the baking sheets so the tarts bake evenly without sticking together.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so utterly satisfying about this Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe — it takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a sophisticated, comforting dish that delights every time. Whether you’re preparing for guests or just treating yourself to a rich, savory snack, these tarts are easy to make and incredibly rewarding. Give it a try and watch these little gems become a staple in your recipe collection!
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
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are a delightful French-inspired appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a savory mixture of sautéed mushrooms, shallots, fresh herbs, and creamy goat cheese. Perfect for brunch, a light lunch, or as an elegant starter, these tarts combine rich, earthy flavors with a crispy golden crust.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mushrooms (cremini or mixed), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces herbed goat cheese, softened
Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly and cut into 4 equal rectangles. Score a ½-inch border around each rectangle without cutting all the way through, then prick the centers of each rectangle with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter together. Add the thinly sliced shallots and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until they turn golden and most moisture has evaporated. Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute before removing from heat.
- Assemble Tarts: Spread a layer of softened herbed goat cheese evenly inside the scored border of each puff pastry rectangle. Evenly distribute the mushroom and shallot mixture on top of the goat cheese layer. Use the beaten egg to brush the edges of each pastry to help achieve a golden, shiny crust.
- Bake: Place the tarts on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes or until the puff pastry is puffed, golden, and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the tarts from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature as an elegant appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- These tarts make a great appetizer, brunch dish, or light lunch option.
- You can substitute plain goat cheese and add your own favorite herbs if preferred.
- Ricotta or cream cheese can be used instead of goat cheese for a milder taste.
- Ensure the mushrooms are cooked until most of their liquid evaporates to avoid soggy pastry.
- Serve the tarts warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
