If you adore a flaky, savory bite that feels both elegant and approachable, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe. Imagine golden puff pastry squares topped with a luscious spread of creamy herbed goat cheese, crowned by tender, caramelized shallots and earthy mushrooms infused with fresh thyme. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that’s just waiting to make your next appetizer or light meal truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Although this recipe boasts a gourmet flair, the ingredient list is wonderfully straightforward, and each component plays an essential role in building fantastic flavor, texture, and visual appeal. From the buttery puff pastry to the fresh herbs, every item is a star.
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: Provides a flaky and golden base that puffs beautifully in the oven for a light, crisp texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps sauté the shallots and mushrooms perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Enhances the savory depth and assists in caramelizing shallots and mushrooms.
- 2 large shallots, thinly sliced: Bring a delicate sweetness that balances the earthiness of mushrooms.
- 8 ounces cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced: Offer a meaty, umami-packed filling that complements the creamy cheese.
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves: Introduce a fragrant, herbaceous note that lifts the entire dish.
- 4 ounces herbed goat cheese, softened: Provides a luscious, tangy creaminess packed with fresh herb flavors.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Creates a stunning golden sheen on the pastry edges.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Optional: microgreens or chopped parsley for garnish: Add a pop of freshness and vibrant color when serving.
How to Make Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Base
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a neat 10×10-inch square, then cut it into 4 equal squares. Place these squares onto your prepared baking sheet. Using a knife, score a 1/2-inch border around the edge of each square—be careful not to cut all the way through; this border will puff up beautifully in the oven to create a lovely crust edge.
Step 2: Cook the Shallots and Mushrooms
Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add your thinly sliced shallots and cook them gently for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and become slightly translucent. Then introduce the sliced mushrooms along with fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for 6 to 8 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to brown and all excess moisture to evaporate. This step is key for concentrating the bold, earthy flavors. Once cooked, let this mixture cool slightly before assembling.
Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
Spread about one tablespoon of softened herbed goat cheese within the scored border of each puff pastry square; this creamy layer acts as the perfect base and flavor contrast for the savory topping. Next, pile on the mushroom and shallot mixture evenly over the goat cheese. To achieve that gorgeous golden finish, brush the exposed pastry edges with the beaten egg.
Step 4: Bake and Garnish
Bake your tarts in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry has puffed up and turned a glorious golden brown. Once out of the oven, you can enhance their beauty and freshness by sprinkling microgreens or chopped parsley atop each tart before serving.
How to Serve Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness is everything when serving these tarts, so a sprinkle of peppery microgreens or bright, chopped parsley adds an inviting burst of color and a hint of herbal vibrancy. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a few flakes of flaky sea salt can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Complement these tarts with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or serve alongside roasted vegetables to keep the meal light yet satisfying. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the tart’s creamy and earthy notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or brunches, consider serving the tarts on a wooden board or a slate platter adorned with fresh herbs for a rustic-chic vibe. You can also make mini versions using smaller puff pastry rounds for an elegant finger food option. These tarts truly shine when plated with a thoughtful touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe leftovers keep well in the refrigerator. Store them in an airtight container and enjoy within 2 to 3 days for optimal flavor and texture.
Freezing
While best fresh, you can freeze unbaked assembled tarts by wrapping them tightly and placing them in the freezer for up to 1 month. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To revive the crispness and warmth, reheat the tarts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes rather than using a microwave. This ensures the flaky pastry stays delightfully crisp and the filling remains deliciously warm.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cremini or baby bella mushrooms provide great texture and flavor, you can experiment with shiitake, oyster, or even a mixed mushroom blend for varied taste profiles.
Is there a substitute for herbed goat cheese?
If you don’t have herbed goat cheese, plain goat cheese mixed with fresh herbs like chives, basil, or parsley works wonderfully. This lets you customize the herb flavor to your liking.
Can I make these tarts vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the puff pastry for a vegan variety, use plant-based butter and olive oil instead of butter, and replace goat cheese with a cashew-based or tofu-based cheese spread. Adjust seasonings to taste.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without losing crispness?
Reheating in a conventional oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes is ideal. Avoid microwaving, which can make the pastry soggy.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes! The mushroom and shallot filling can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before assembling the tarts for the best results.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe— it’s a dish that effortlessly combines simple ingredients into a beautiful, flavor-packed experience. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in, I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy with friends and family. Once you do, it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen rotation.
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Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 tarts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are a delicious French-inspired appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry topped with savory sautéed mushrooms, sweet shallots, fresh thyme, and creamy herbed goat cheese. Perfectly golden and puffed, these tarts make an elegant and flavorful starter or snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large shallots, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 4 ounces herbed goat cheese, softened
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: microgreens or chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry into a 10×10-inch square. Cut the pastry into 4 equal squares.
- Score Pastry Borders: Place the pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, lightly score a 1/2-inch border around the edges of each square without cutting all the way through. This will allow the edges to puff up nicely during baking.
- Sauté Shallots and Mushrooms: In a skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Then add the sliced mushrooms, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking for 6 to 8 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and their moisture has evaporated. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Assemble Tarts: Spread about 1 tablespoon of softened herbed goat cheese within the scored border of each pastry square. Spoon the mushroom and shallot mixture evenly on top of the goat cheese.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the edges of the pastry squares with the beaten egg to give a beautiful golden color when baked.
- Bake: Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with microgreens or chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of white wine while cooking the mushrooms.
- You can substitute plain goat cheese and stir in your own favorite herbs such as chives, basil, or parsley.
- These tarts can be prepared a few hours in advance and reheated in the oven before serving to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
