If you adore rustic yet elegant bites that bring together earthiness and creamy tang, this Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe is an absolute treasure worth making. Featuring flaky puff pastry as the golden canvas, the combination of savory mushrooms sautéed with sweet shallots and aromatic thyme, paired with luscious herbed goat cheese, creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that feel indulgent yet comforting. Perfect for sharing or treating yourself anytime, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a stunning dish that will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward but each plays a vital role in crafting the perfect Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe. Together, they ensure the tarts are flavorful, aromatic, and irresistibly flaky.
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: Provides the buttery, flaky base that puffs up to golden perfection in the oven.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fruity note and helps gently sauté the shallots and mushrooms without overpowering them.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Infuses richness to elevate the earthy mushroom filling.
- 1 large shallot, thinly sliced: Offers a mild onion flavor with a hint of sweetness that complements the mushrooms beautifully.
- 8 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced: The star ingredient providing meaty texture and deep umami taste.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps draw out moisture from the mushrooms for better caramelization.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to round out the savory profile.
- ½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: Brings a fragrant herbal dimension that pairs perfectly with mushrooms and goat cheese.
- 4 oz herbed goat cheese, softened: Creamy, tangy, and speckled with herbs, it’s the luscious spread that ties everything together.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Creates that stunning golden edge and helps seal the crust’s border.
- Optional garnish: fresh thyme or microgreens: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch for serving.
How to Make Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mushroom and Shallot Filling
Start by warming olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the thinly sliced shallots and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and start to sweeten. Add your mushrooms with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme leaves, cooking them gently for 8 to 10 minutes. This allows the mushrooms to brown beautifully and lose their moisture, concentrating all those incredible savory flavors that will soon fill your tart.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
While the filling cooks, roll out your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to even thickness. Cut it into 4 equal rectangles and carefully score a half-inch border around each piece—this helps the edges puff up while keeping the center perfectly flat to hold the filling. Arrange the rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ready for the next steps.
Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
Spread approximately one tablespoon of softened herbed goat cheese within the scored border of each puff pastry rectangle. The goat cheese adds a creamy layer that contrasts delightfully with the earthy mushrooms. Then, spoon the mushroom and shallot mixture evenly over the cheese. Brush the edges of each tart with the beaten egg wash to ensure a beautifully glossy, golden finish when baked.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your assembled tarts into a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the puff pastry is golden, puffy, and crisp. Let them cool slightly before serving—you want the goat cheese to settle just enough for perfect bites without burning your mouth.
How to Serve Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves or a handful of delicate microgreens adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the tarts. The herb garnish also ties back to the thyme used inside, creating a fragrant finishing touch that is as lovely to look at as it is to taste.
Side Dishes
Serve these tarts alongside a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A bowl of roasted root vegetables or a simple soup also pairs beautifully, transforming this appetizer into a satisfying meal perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a party, consider cutting the tarts into smaller squares and arranging them on a wooden board with small bowls of assorted dips like pesto or balsamic glaze. You can also top individual mini tarts with caramelized nuts or a dribble of honey for an irresistible sweet-savory twist that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a fantastic option for make-ahead lunches or quick snacks during a busy week.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead for a special occasion, you can freeze the unbaked assembled tarts by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to a month and bake directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Reheating
To reheat, place the tarts on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and the pastry regains its crispiness. Avoid microwaving as that can make the crust soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use regular goat cheese if I don’t have herbed goat cheese?
Absolutely! Simply mix plain goat cheese with chopped fresh herbs like thyme, chives, or parsley to mimic the herbed version for a fresh and flavorful spread.
Are these tarts gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses puff pastry made from wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free puff pastry varieties or make your own to adapt this recipe.
Can I substitute another type of mushroom?
Yes, while cremini or baby bella mushrooms are ideal for their flavor and texture, you can experiment with shiitake, portobello, or even a wild mushroom mix for a different twist.
Is it possible to make mini tarts instead of full-sized ones?
Definitely! Cut the puff pastry into smaller squares or circles to create bite-sized tarts—these are perfect for appetizers or party platters.
Can I prepare the mushroom mixture ahead of time?
You can prepare the mushroom and shallot filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bring it to room temperature before assembling the tarts to make spreading easier.
Final Thoughts
This Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe is a delightful celebration of simple, fresh, and bold flavors brought together in a flaky, irresistible package. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe quickly becomes a go-to for cozy nights, elegant gatherings, or anytime you want to share something truly special with loved ones. So grab your puff pastry and get ready to create something unforgettable in your kitchen!
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 elegant French-inspired appetizers featuring flaky puff pastry topped with sautéed mushrooms, savory shallots, fresh thyme, and creamy herbed goat cheese. Perfectly seasoned and baked to a golden puff, they make a delicious starter or light meal paired with a green salad.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large shallot, thinly sliced
- 8 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 4 oz herbed goat cheese, softened
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional Garnish
- Fresh thyme or microgreens
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.
- Sauté Shallots: In a skillet over medium heat, combine the olive oil and butter until melted and warm. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook for 2–3 minutes until they soften but do not brown.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms into the skillet along with salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme leaves. Sauté for about 8–10 minutes until the mushrooms turn golden brown and any released moisture has evaporated, concentrating their flavor.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Cut it into four equal rectangles. Using a knife, score a ½-inch border around each rectangle carefully without cutting through, allowing the edges to puff up during baking.
- Assemble Tarts: Place the puff pastry rectangles on the prepared baking sheet. Spread about 1 tablespoon of softened herbed goat cheese inside the scored border of each tart. Evenly distribute the sautéed mushroom and shallot mixture over the goat cheese.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the exposed puff pastry edges with the beaten egg. This will give the crust a beautiful golden color once baked.
- Bake the Tarts: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the tarts to cool slightly on a wire rack. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs or microgreens if desired before serving.
Notes
- If herbed goat cheese is unavailable, substitute with plain goat cheese mixed with fresh herbs of your choice.
- These tarts make a perfect appetizer or a light lunch and pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad.
