Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
If you’re searching for a show-stopping vegetarian appetizer that’s as easy as it is impressive, these Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts deliver pure magic. Imagine golden, flaky puff pastry adorned with caramelized shallots, deeply savory mushrooms, and dollops of tangy, creamy goat cheese bursting with herbs. Each bite is a harmonious blend of earthy, buttery, and zesty flavors—all built on a base that’s unfussy but elegant. Whether you’re treating friends to a dinner party or simply want to elevate a weeknight meal, Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are guaranteed to steal the spotlight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the simple cast of characters that bring these tarts to life. You’ll find each ingredient plays a starring role, from the crisp base to the flavorful toppings. This is a recipe that proves the best results often come from the smartest, simplest choices.
- Puff Pastry: The store-bought variety makes this recipe effortlessly fancy, providing flaky, golden layers with almost no effort.
- Olive Oil: Adds a gentle richness and helps the mushrooms and shallots cook to glossy perfection.
- Unsalted Butter: Gives the sautéed filling a luxurious, deep flavor that pairs perfectly with the goat cheese.
- Cremini or Baby Bella Mushrooms: These mushrooms offer a meaty texture and earthy notes that anchor the whole tart.
- Shallots: Sweeter and more delicate than onions, they add a pleasant depth and gentle bite.
- Fresh Thyme Leaves: This herb brightens every bite and elevates the savory notes of the mushrooms and cheese.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out the natural flavors in the filling.
- Black Pepper: A few twists add just enough gentle heat and aroma.
- Herbed Goat Cheese: Creamy, tangy, and herb-flecked, it melts into the filling and adds a sophisticated zip.
- Egg: Brushed on the pastry edges for a shiny, golden finish.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: (Optional) Sprinkled over the tarts for a pop of green and freshness at the end.
How to Make Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts
Step 1: Prep the Puff Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, then cut it into four equal rectangles. Place the pieces on your baking sheet, and with a sharp knife, carefully score a half-inch border around each rectangle—just enough to help the edges rise up and form a crisp frame for your filling.
Step 2: Sauté the Shallots and Mushrooms
Heat the olive oil and butter together in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in your sliced mushrooms and shallots, letting them cook down for 6 to 8 minutes until they’re deeply golden, tender, and fragrant. This step is where the magic begins! Stir in the fresh thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper, then remove the skillet from the heat so you don’t overcook the herbs.
Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
Divide the mushroom and shallot mixture evenly among the four pastry rectangles, keeping the filling inside the scored borders for best results. Crumble the herbed goat cheese over the top of each tart, letting it nestle between the veggies so it melts just the right amount during baking.
Step 4: Brush and Bake
With a pastry brush, sweep the beaten egg along the borders of each tart—this will give the finished pastry that irresistible golden sheen. Slide the tarts into the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the pastry is gloriously puffed and richly colored at the edges.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you like an extra burst of color and freshness. Serve your Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts warm or at room temperature—they’re equally delightful either way.
How to Serve Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts
Garnishes
A finishing sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme leaves does wonders for brightness and presentation. For a little extra flair, drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze over the warm tarts, boosting the sweet-savory contrast against the richness of the cheese and mushrooms.
Side Dishes
Pair Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts with a simple mixed green salad, perhaps dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. They are also lovely alongside a bowl of veggie soup or roasted root vegetables for a more substantial meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut each tart into small squares or triangles and serve them on a platter for party-ready appetizers. Try placing each tart on a bed of arugula with a spritz of lemon for a brunch spread, or even serve atop a swirl of herb yogurt for an artistic dinner plate. There are endless ways to make these tarts the star of your next gathering!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have tarts left, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The pastry will soften a bit, but the flavors just get cozier and more delicious over time.
Freezing
You can freeze baked (and cooled) Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts by wrapping them individually in foil and placing in a zippered freezer bag. They’ll keep their quality for up to a month—perfect for pulling out a sophisticated snack at a moment’s notice.
Reheating
For best results, reheat tarts in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, straight from the fridge or freezer. This crisps the pastry and warms the filling without making it soggy. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but the oven will always give you that just-baked texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! While cremini or baby bella mushrooms have a lovely earthy flavor, you can mix in white button, shiitake, or even wild mushrooms for a deeper complexity. Just aim for a similar total weight so the proportions stay balanced.
Is it okay to use plain goat cheese instead of herbed?
Yes, plain goat cheese works well if herbed isn’t available. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs (like basil, oregano, and thyme) or freshly chopped chives to the cheese before topping your tarts.
How can I make Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts gluten-free?
You can easily swap the puff pastry for a gluten-free version, which is now available in many grocery stores. Check ingredient labels carefully to ensure all toppings and fillings are gluten-free as well.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! The sautéed mushroom and shallot filling can be made a day in advance and kept covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble and proceed as usual for a quick, crowd-pleasing dish.
Are these tarts best served warm or at room temperature?
Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts shine both ways. Fresh from the oven, the pastry is super crisp and the cheese is extra melty; at room temperature, the flavors meld beautifully, making them perfect for buffets or potlucks where timing can be unpredictable.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something impressive yet unfussy, Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are a must-try! Warm, hearty, and beautifully savory, they’ll turn any gathering or solo treat into a special event. Roll up your sleeves and give them a go—you’re about to discover a new favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 tarts
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are a delightful combination of savory flavors nestled in a flaky puff pastry. Perfect for entertaining or a special lunch treat.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Mushroom Filling:
1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 8 ounces cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced, 2 shallots, thinly sliced, 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Goat Cheese Topping:
4 ounces herbed goat cheese, crumbled
Egg Wash:
1 egg, beaten
Garnish:
chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out puff pastry, cut into 4 rectangles, score edges.
- Sauté Mushrooms and Shallots: Heat olive oil and butter, sauté mushrooms and shallots until tender and browned. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble and Bake: Divide mushroom mixture on pastry rectangles, top with goat cheese. Brush edges with egg, bake for 18–22 minutes until golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley, serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can add a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for extra depth.
- These tarts make a great appetizer or vegetarian lunch with a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tart
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
