If you love the cozy flavors of earthy mushrooms paired with the delicate sweetness of shallots and the creamy tang of goat cheese, this Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe is an absolute must-try. With its flaky puff pastry base and perfectly balanced herbed goat cheese filling, this dish brings together simple yet elegant ingredients into a harmonious bite that’s ideal for brunch, a stylish appetizer, or a comforting light lunch. Each tart offers a delightful contrast of textures and rich flavors that feel both sophisticated and wonderfully approachable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe shines because it uses straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role. Every component contributes something special—from the buttery puff pastry that gives those signature golden flaky layers, to the fresh thyme that adds an aromatic punch, all enhancing the overall experience.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed): Provides the beautifully flaky, golden base that holds all the fillings deliciously together.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps soften the shallots and mushrooms without overpowering them.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Enhances richness and aids in browning the vegetables for deeper flavor.
- 2 shallots (thinly sliced): Impart a gentle sweetness and delicate onion flavor that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
- 2 cups mushrooms (cremini or mixed, thinly sliced): Bring earthy umami and juicy texture to the filling.
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves: Add a fragrant herbal note that brightens up the savory mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers just enough heat to awaken the palate without overshadowing the other ingredients.
- 4 ounces herbed goat cheese (softened): Gives a creamy, tangy layer that contrasts beautifully with the earthy mushrooms.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Creates a glossy, golden crust that’s both visually appealing and adds slight crispness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and a mild, clean herbal flavor to finish the tarts.
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. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, then carefully cut it into four equal rectangles. Place these on the prepared baking sheet. To keep the centers from puffing too much during baking, score a 1/2-inch border around each rectangle without cutting all the way through and gently prick the centers with a fork.
Step 2: Cook the Shallots and Mushrooms
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter together. Add the sliced shallots and cook them for about two minutes until they soften gently. Next, stir in the mushrooms along with thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté this mixture for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mushrooms turn golden and most of their moisture evaporates, leaving behind a beautifully concentrated flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
Once the mushroom and shallot filling is ready, spread about a tablespoon of softened herbed goat cheese in the center of each puff pastry rectangle. Evenly distribute the mushroom mixture over the cheese layer. To ensure a gorgeous golden crust, brush the egg wash all around the scored borders of the pastry.
Step 4: Bake until Golden and Puffy
Pop the tarts into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the pastry glows with a golden hue and has puffed up beautifully. When they come out of the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. These tarts can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, offering versatility that’s perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate these tarts instantly. A sprinkling of fresh parsley or even a few delicate thyme sprigs not only enhances the visual appeal but adds a fresh herbal note. If you want a little zing, a drizzle of balsamic reduction can create a delightful sweet-acidic counterpoint to the savory filling.
Side Dishes
This Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp greens like arugula or watercress tossed lightly in lemon vinaigrette. You can also serve it alongside a roasted vegetable medley or a bright tomato salad to bring freshness and balance the rich, buttery tarts.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming appetizer at your next gathering, serve these tarts on a wooden board with small bowls of olives, nuts, and pickled vegetables. Cut into smaller squares for finger-food style bites or add a dollop of herb-infused crème fraîche or tangy pesto on the side for guests to customize each mouthful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tarts store beautifully in the fridge for up to three days when kept in an airtight container. When ready to eat, simply bring them to room temperature or reheat gently to enjoy their flaky texture and warm filling.
Freezing
You can freeze these tarts before baking by assembling them on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you want delicious warmth, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure a perfect golden crust.
Reheating
To keep that lovely flaky puff pastry crisp, reheat the tarts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the pastry soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use plain goat cheese instead of herbed goat cheese?
Absolutely! If herbed goat cheese isn’t available, simply mix plain goat cheese with fresh herbs like chives, parsley, and thyme to create a similarly flavorful filling that works perfectly in this recipe.
What types of mushrooms work best in this tart?
Cremini mushrooms give a great deep, earthy taste, but you can also use mixed mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, or button mushrooms for varied textures and richer flavor profiles.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe is entirely vegetarian and makes a delicious meat-free option for gatherings or everyday meals.
Can I make these tarts ahead of time for a party?
Definitely. You can assemble the tarts ahead and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before baking. For more extended prep, freezing them before baking is an excellent way to save time on the day of your event.
How can I make the pastry extra crispy?
To get that restaurant-quality crispness, make sure the puff pastry is well chilled before baking, and bake at the right temperature (around 400°F) on a parchment-lined baking sheet without overcrowding the oven.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that delivers on flavor, elegance, and ease, this Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe is a total winner. It captures the heart of rustic French-inspired cooking and turns it into something wonderfully accessible for any home cook. I can guarantee once you try these tarts, they’ll become a favorite for entertaining or simply treating yourself whenever you crave something both comforting and impressive.
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 delightful French-inspired appetizers featuring golden puff pastry filled with a savory mixture of sautéed mushrooms, shallots, fresh thyme, and creamy herbed goat cheese. Perfect for a light lunch, brunch, or appetizer, they combine rich flavors and a flaky texture that impresses every time.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 shallots (thinly sliced)
- 2 cups mushrooms (cremini or mixed, thinly sliced)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces herbed goat cheese (softened)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut into 4 equal rectangles. Place the rectangles on the baking sheet, score a 1/2-inch border around each without cutting through, and prick the centers with a fork to prevent excess puffing.
- Sauté shallots and mushrooms: In a medium skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Add mushrooms, fresh thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms turn golden and most moisture has evaporated, then remove from heat.
- Assemble the tarts: Spread approximately one tablespoon of softened herbed goat cheese in the center of each pastry rectangle. Evenly top the cheese with the mushroom and shallot mixture. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg wash to help achieve a golden crust.
- Bake the tarts: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the tarts from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- If herbed goat cheese is unavailable, use plain goat cheese mixed with fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, and thyme for similar flavor.
- These tarts make an excellent appetizer, brunch item, or light lunch when paired with a fresh salad.
