Few appetizers can steal the spotlight quite like Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts. Buttery puff pastry acts as a crisp, golden stage for the earthy succulence of sautéed mushrooms and caramelized shallots, while herbed goat cheese adds tang, freshness, and irresistible creaminess. Whether you’re looking for a tempting party snack, a fancy brunch treat, or a way to impress your fellow food lovers, these tarts guarantee rave reviews every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts, less truly is more. Each ingredient is carefully chosen for flavor and texture, creating a symphony of savory, creamy, and aromatic notes. Gather these essentials, and you’re well on your way to pastry perfection.
- Puff Pastry: The flaky, buttery foundation that keeps the tarts light and crisp while holding all those delicious toppings.
- Olive Oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness to the sauté and helps everything brown beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter: Pairs with the olive oil for deeper flavor and that irresistible aroma when sautéed.
- Cremini or Baby Bella Mushrooms: These mushrooms lend a meaty texture and earthy savoriness that play perfectly with the tangy cheese.
- Shallots: Softer and sweeter than onions, shallots become meltingly tender and slightly sweet when sautéed.
- Fresh Thyme Leaves: This herb adds delicate citrus and mint undertones that lift the whole tart.
- Fresh Rosemary: Just a touch brings a woodsy, aromatic dimension without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Herbed Goat Cheese: Softened goat cheese with herbs gives the filling a tangy creaminess – use plain goat cheese with added fresh herbs if needed!
- Egg (for egg wash): Brushed along the pastry borders, egg wash creates a glossy, golden finish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer, so each bite bursts with flavor.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): A pop of green to brighten the finished tarts and add fresh flavor.
How to Make Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts
Step 1: Prep the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly flour your work surface, then roll out the thawed puff pastry for a smoother, even rise. Cut the pastry into four equal rectangles (or get creative with shapes!), then place them on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly score a half-inch border around the edge of each, taking care not to cut all the way through – this gives your Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts that perfect, bakery-style edge.
Step 2: Cook the Shallots and Mushrooms
Grab your favorite skillet and warm the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots first, cooking them for two to three minutes until they start to soften and turn translucent. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms, thyme, rosemary, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté everything for about eight minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden and the shallots are meltingly tender and aromatic. The kitchen will already smell incredible at this point!
Step 3: Layer on the Good Stuff
Now, let your creativity shine. Gently spread a generous layer of herbed goat cheese inside each tart’s scored border. This creamy base not only brings tang and lift, but also keeps the pastry from absorbing moisture from the mushrooms. Heap the warm mushroom-shallot mixture over the cheese, distributing it evenly for the perfect balance in each bite.
Step 4: Brush and Bake
Take your beaten egg and brush it along the borders of each tart. This step gives your Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts that show-stopping, glossy golden finish everyone adores. Slide the tarts into the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden, and crisp around the edges.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked to perfection, let the tarts cool just slightly so you can handle them, then finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Slice, serve warm or at room temperature, and prepare for the compliments to roll in!
How to Serve Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts
Garnishes
Finishing touches matter! A shower of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a herby brightness that lifts the whole tart. For a little extra decadence, try a pinch of flaky sea salt, a few fresh thyme leaves, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving–these little flourishes make Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts feel truly restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
These tarts shine as the star of an appetizer spread, but they’re also charming for brunch or even a light supper. Pair them with a zippy arugula salad dressed with lemon and shaved Parmesan, a bowl of creamy tomato soup, or simple roasted asparagus for a satisfying, well-balanced meal. The contrast of fresh greens or tangy soup with the rich, savory tart is pure magic.
Creative Ways to Present
Entertaining? Try cutting the pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized amuse-bouches, or use a biscuit cutter for mini, round tartlets. Arrange them artfully on a large platter, or add edible flowers alongside the parsley for a visually stunning presentation. For brunch, serve each tart atop a bed of fresh greens with a soft-boiled egg on the side. The options are limitless, and Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts always deliver elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover tarts (it’s rare, but it happens!), simply let them cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days, and still taste dreamy when reheated.
Freezing
Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts actually freeze quite well. Let them cool completely, wrap each tart tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to one month. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge–they’re a life-saver for last-minute gatherings or easy, make-ahead snacks.
Reheating
For best results, warm leftover tarts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This revives both the crispiness of the pastry and the depth of the filling. The microwave will work in a pinch, but the crust may soften instead of staying crisp.
FAQs
Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! While cremini or baby bellas are traditional here, feel free to experiment with any mushroom variety you love. White button, shiitake, or even a mix of wild mushrooms will all add their own unique flavors to your Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts.
What if I can’t find herbed goat cheese?
No worries! Just use plain goat cheese and stir in your favorite fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, chives, or even a bit of chopped parsley. This simple tweak makes the tarts just as delicious and lets you tailor the flavor to your taste.
Can I make these tarts ahead of time?
Yes, and they’re perfect for prepping ahead! Assemble the tarts up to one day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Alternatively, bake them fully and reheat in the oven before serving to restore that amazing crispness.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Definitely! Look for quality gluten-free puff pastry in the freezer section of many grocery stores. The flavors and textures of the filling pair beautifully with a gluten-free base, so everyone can enjoy Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts.
Can I make these vegan?
While traditional goat cheese and egg wash aren’t vegan, you can make swaps: use a vegan puff pastry, a plant-based herbed cheese, and brush the edges with non-dairy milk. The tarts will still be packed with mushroom and herb flavor!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a savory appetizer that never fails to delight, Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are the answer. They’re charmingly simple to pull together, impossible to resist, and destined to be a hit whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself. Don’t hesitate – your kitchen is about to smell wonderful, and your taste buds are in for a treat!
Print
Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 tarts
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with these savory Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts. A flavorful combination of mushrooms, shallots, and seasoned goat cheese baked on a buttery puff pastry, these tarts are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
1 sheet thawed puff pastry;
Mushroom Mixture:
1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 cups sliced cremini or baby bella mushrooms, 2 large shallots thinly sliced, 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, 1 teaspoon fresh chopped rosemary;
Herbed Goat Cheese:
4 ounces softened herbed goat cheese;
Egg Wash:
1 egg, beaten;
Additional:
Salt and pepper to taste, fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet. Roll out puff pastry, cut into desired shapes, and transfer to baking sheet.
- Cook Mushroom Mixture: In a skillet, sauté shallots in olive oil and butter until softened. Add mushrooms, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper; cook until tender.
- Assemble Tarts: Spread goat cheese on pastry, top with mushroom mixture. Brush edges with egg wash.
- Bake: Bake tarts until golden and puffed, about 18-20 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can use plain goat cheese and add your own herbs.
- For more caramelized flavor, cook shallots longer.
- Pair tarts with a light salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tart
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
