If you’re a fan of earthy, flavorful bites with a rich, creamy twist, then this Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine tender mushrooms sautéed with aromatic shallots and garlic, mingling effortlessly with tangy goat cheese, all nestled in perfectly flaky puff pastry. This dish brings together comforting textures and bold flavors in a way that’s both elegant enough for guests and simple enough for a weeknight treat. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a light meal, or a party snack, these tarts are a celebration of savory delights that you’ll want to come back to time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these tarts is all about balancing simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role. From the creamy goat cheese to the fragrant thyme, every element adds something special—flavor, texture, or color—that makes your tart sing.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps soften the shallots for a sweet, caramelized base.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Balances the butter, providing a subtle fruitiness to the sautéed vegetables.
- Shallots (3 medium, thinly sliced): Brings a delicate sweetness and depth unlike regular onions.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses gentle pungency and warmth to the mushroom mixture.
- Mixed mushrooms (300g): A blend of cremini, shiitake, and oyster adds earthiness and meaty texture.
- Fresh thyme leaves (1 teaspoon): Offers aromatic herbal notes that elevate the savory filling.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/8 teaspoon): Season perfectly to enhance all flavors without overpowering them.
- White wine or vegetable stock (1/4 cup): Introduces subtle acidity or savory depth to deglaze the pan.
- Goat cheese (4 oz, softened): Delivers creamy tanginess that contrasts beautifully with the mushrooms.
- Puff pastry sheet (320g): Provides that irresistible flaky, buttery crust that’s crisp and golden.
- Egg wash (1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water): Ensures a shiny, golden finish on the pastry edges.
- Fresh thyme or parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of green and fresh herbal brightness to each tart.
How to Make Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by warming the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the thinly sliced shallots and let them cook gently for about 3 to 4 minutes, until they become soft and translucent—this sweet base is what sets the tone for the entire filling. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it releases its fragrant aroma, awakening your senses with that classic garlicky goodness.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
Now it’s time to bring in those earthy mixed mushrooms. Add them to the skillet along with fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook everything together for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring every so often, until the mushrooms have softened, browned slightly, and developed that deep, umami-packed flavor we all crave. This is the heart of your tart.
Step 3: Deglaze and Cool
Pour in the white wine or vegetable stock to the pan. This step is essential as it lifts any caramelized bits stuck to the bottom, blending all those flavors beautifully and adding moisture. Let this liquid reduce down for 2 minutes, intensifying the taste. Then remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly so it’s easier to handle when assembling the tarts.
Step 4: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 200°C (or 180°C fan, 400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Carefully unroll the puff pastry onto a clean surface and cut it into six equal rectangles or circles—whatever shape you prefer for your tarts. Score a 1 cm border around the edges on each piece with a knife, making sure not to cut all the way through. This border will create a lovely frame that rises up and holds the filling beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble the Tarts
Spread a thin, even layer of the softened goat cheese onto the center of each pastry square or circle, staying inside the scored border. Then spoon the cooled mushroom mixture on top of the cheese, distributing it evenly so every tart gets a generous helping of mushrooms and shallots. Finally, brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash for that mouthwatering golden finish during baking.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place your tarts onto the prepared baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is delightfully puffed and boasts a golden, crispy crust. Once baked, remove from the oven and let the tarts cool just enough to handle but still warm—the perfect temperature to enjoy every burst of flavor.
How to Serve Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing completes these tarts like a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Adding a few fresh thyme leaves or a pinch of chopped parsley right before serving injects a subtle pop of color and a fresh herbal aroma that complements the creamy goat cheese and mushrooms beautifully. It’s an easy step that visually elevates your dish while adding a layer of freshness.
Side Dishes
Serve these savory tarts alongside a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal, or pair with roasted vegetables to continue that comforting, earthy flavor profile. They also make a wonderful accompaniment to a bowl of warm soup, turning a simple lunch into a cozy, satisfying affair.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling a little fancy, try serving these tarts on a wooden board with assorted cheeses, nuts, and fresh fruit for a beautiful appetizer platter. Alternatively, create mini versions by cutting smaller pastry shapes and assembling bite-sized tarts that guests can easily enjoy at a party or gathering. The possibilities are endless and fun to explore!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover mushroom and goat cheese tarts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the puff pastry as crisp as possible, place a paper towel underneath to absorb any moisture and prevent sogginess. Reheat gently to enjoy all that deliciousness without losing texture.
Freezing
These tarts also freeze well if you want to make them ahead of time. Assemble the tarts but do not brush with egg wash or bake them. Freeze on a tray until firm, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, brush with egg wash, and bake as directed.
Reheating
For the best taste and texture, reheat leftover or thawed tarts in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the pastry crisps up again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the pastry soggy and chewy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of goat cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese provides a tangy creaminess, you can substitute with cream cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor, or even feta for an extra salty punch. Just keep the cheese soft enough to spread easily.
What mushrooms work best in this recipe?
A mixed mushroom blend creates the most interesting texture and flavor. Cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms are excellent choices, but feel free to use button mushrooms or portobello chunks if that’s what’s available. Just make sure to slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots Recipe is completely vegetarian, especially when using vegetable stock instead of wine. It’s a great option for meatless meals or entertaining vegetarians.
Can I make these tarts vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use vegan puff pastry, replace goat cheese with a vegan cheese spread, and use vegetable stock. The shallots and mushrooms will remain deliciously flavorful.
How long does it take to prepare these tarts?
From start to finish, including prep and baking, this recipe takes about 45 minutes total. Most of that time is hands-off, letting the mushrooms cook and the tarts bake to golden perfection.
Final Thoughts
These Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots Recipe embody everything you want out of a cozy, impressive dish—layered flavors, simple ingredients, and a golden, flaky crust that makes every bite a small celebration. I encourage you to try them soon; once you do, they’ll surely become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Trust me, sharing these tarts with friends and family will light up any gathering and turn regular days into delicious memories.
Print
Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots are a delightful appetizer or light meal featuring a flaky puff pastry base topped with a rich blend of sautéed mushrooms, shallots, garlic, and creamy goat cheese. Infused with fresh thyme and enhanced by a splash of white wine, these tarts offer a perfect balance of earthy and tangy flavors, baked to golden perfection for a warm, savory treat perfect for entertaining or a cozy homemade snack.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 medium shallots, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 300g (10 oz) mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster), sliced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup white wine or vegetable stock
Pastry and Topping
- 4 oz (120g) goat cheese, softened
- 320g (11 oz) puff pastry sheet
- 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme leaves or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and sauté them for 3–4 minutes until they become soft and translucent, creating a flavorful base for the mushroom mixture.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, enhancing the aroma and depth of the filling.
- Cook Mushrooms and Seasonings: Add the sliced mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and turn tender and browned.
- Deglaze and Reduce: Pour in the white wine or vegetable stock to deglaze the pan. Continue cooking for 2 more minutes to allow the liquid to reduce and intensify the flavor. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cut Pastry: Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a clean surface and cut it into 6 equal rectangles or circles, depending on your preference for tart shapes.
- Score Borders: Using a sharp knife, gently score a 1 cm (1/2 inch) border around the edge of each pastry piece without cutting all the way through. This helps the edges puff separately from the center.
- Assemble Tarts: Spread a thin layer of softened goat cheese in the center of each pastry piece, staying within the scored border to create a creamy base.
- Add Mushroom Filling: Spoon the cooled mushroom mixture evenly over the goat cheese layer on each tart, distributing it carefully to avoid spilling over the edges.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the borders of each pastry with the beaten egg wash mixture to ensure a shiny, golden finish during baking.
- Bake the Tarts: Place the assembled tarts onto the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and fully puffed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool slightly for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or parsley if desired, and serve warm for best flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute white wine with vegetable stock to keep the recipe alcohol-free.
- Ensure the goat cheese is softened before spreading to make the assembly easier.
- The puff pastry can be homemade or store-bought; thaw it according to package instructions if frozen.
- For added flavor, try incorporating finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives into the mushroom mixture.
- These tarts are best served warm but can be reheated gently in the oven before serving.
