There’s something enchanting about the way the rich scent of sautéed mushrooms and shallots fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy café where the atmosphere hums with the warmth of good food and laughter. As I dug into my pantry recently, I stumbled upon some puff pastry, and inspiration struck! With just a few ingredients and a sprinkling of creativity, I crafted these delightful Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts. They are the perfect balance of creamy and flaky—a gourmet appetizer that looks like a million bucks but comes together in just 45 minutes.
Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, these tarts are versatile enough to impress any crowd. Plus, they offer a wonderful opportunity to relish the earthy flavors of mushrooms paired with the tangy notes of goat cheese. Join me as I walk you through this easy-to-follow recipe that merges delightful textures and mouthwatering tastes into one irresistible bite!
Why are Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts irresistible?
Delightful Aromas: The moment you start sautéing mushrooms and shallots, your kitchen will be filled with a warm, inviting fragrance that sets the stage for gourmet cooking.
Easy Gourmet Experience: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, these tarts are a swift yet elegant choice for any occasion, perfect if you want to impress without the fuss.
Versatility: Not only are they a fantastic appetizer, but they can also be served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for parties or casual family dinners.
Unique Flavors: The combination of tangy goat cheese, umami-rich mushrooms, and fresh herbs creates a flavor profile that will please any palate.
Creative Customization: Feel free to explore variations like swapping in different cheeses or adding veggies for a personal twist. For other similar options, check out our delicious appetizer recipes.
Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Ingredients
• Elevate your cooking with these luscious tarts!
For the Filling
- Mushrooms (8 oz) – Use any variety for a rich umami flavor to make your Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts truly memorable.
- Shallot (1, finely chopped) – Adds a sweet and mild onion flavor that beautifully complements the mushrooms.
- Garlic Cloves (3, minced) – Infuses the filling with aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Parsley (1/3 cup, roughly chopped) – Offers a fresh, vibrant touch and is essential for the filling.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – For sautéing the vegetables, it adds richness to the filling.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup) – Brings a savory, nutty flavor that deepens the tarts’ taste.
- Goat Cheese (4 oz) – Provides a creamy, tangy element that’s essential for your tarts.
- Herbs (1/4 teaspoon each of sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper) – These seasonings elevate the flavor of your filling.
For the Crust
- Puff Pastry Squares – Select pre-cut 4-inch squares for a delightful flaky crust that simplifies your cooking experience.
- Egg (1, whisked for wash) – Promotes a glossy, golden-brown finish on the pastry.
For Deglazing
- White Wine (1/4 cup) – Adds acidity that enhances the flavor; can be substituted with chicken broth if desired.
How to Make Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare two large baking pans. This ensures that your tarts will bake evenly and come out perfectly crisp.
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Prepare the Pastry: Arrange the puff pastry squares on the baking pans, leaving space in between each one. Poke holes in the dough with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the finely chopped shallots and minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This will create a deliciously inviting aroma.
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Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms, along with any remaining olive oil and spices. Cook for 2 minutes, then pour in the white wine; simmer for 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the mixture is aromatic.
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Combine the Filling: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the softened goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, and roughly chopped parsley until everything is well combined. This creamy filling is where the magic happens!
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Assemble the Tarts: Spoon generous amounts of the filling onto each puff pastry square. You can pinch or fold the edges for an elegant design if desired; let your creativity shine here!
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Bake to Perfection: Brush the edges of the pastries with the whisked egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and flaky. The tantalizing smell will fill your kitchen!
Optional: Serve them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply sauté the shallots, garlic, and mushrooms, then mix in the cheeses and herbs, and allow it to cool before transferring to an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, avoid assembling the tarts until you’re ready to bake, as the pastry is best fresh. On the day of serving, just assemble the tarts with the filling on the puff pastry squares, brush with egg wash, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. You’ll have restaurant-quality tarts with minimal effort, ready to impress your guests!
How to Store and Freeze Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts
Fridge: Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to revive their crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the baked tarts, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag, for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When reheating from frozen, bake directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Room Temperature: If serving for a gathering, tarts can safely sit out for up to 2 hours at room temperature, making them perfect for parties!
Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these tarts according to your taste and dietary needs!
- Cheese Swap: Use feta or ricotta for different textures and flavors that still keep the tarts creamy. Each cheese brings its unique charm!
- Vegetable Twist: Substitute mushrooms with sautéed spinach or zucchini for a fresh take that highlights the versatility of the tart. You’ll be amazed at the delightful flavors!
- Meaty Addition: Add diced bacon or prosciutto for a smoky flavor contrast that deepens the overall taste. It’s a savory addition that will captivate meat lovers.
- Spicy Heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the filling for a spicy kick that surprises the palate. The heat complements the creamy cheese beautifully!
- Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs like basil or dill to take the flavor profile in new directions. Each herb adds its unique sparkle to the dish!
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute puff pastry with gluten-free phyllo dough or a pre-made gluten-free pastry for a delightful alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pine nuts into the filling for added texture and a nutty flavor that enchants every bite.
- Fruit Infusion: Add caramelized apples or pears for a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of the tart. It’s a delightful surprise you won’t want to miss!
What to Serve with Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts?
These delightful tarts are the perfect centerpiece for your dining table, calling for delicious companions to elevate your meal experience.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette perfectly balances the creamy richness of the tarts.
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Savory Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, offering a contrasting texture and flavor to the flaky tarts.
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Light Tomato Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of tomato soup complements the savory elements of the tarts, making for a harmonious pairing on chilly evenings.
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Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir enhances the earthy flavors of the mushrooms.
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Bruschetta: Fresh, homemade bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil provides a vibrant, zesty bite that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the tarts.
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Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and lemon zest adds a nutritious, wholesome side that echoes the herbaceous notes of the tarts.
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Fruit Tart for Dessert: Finish off the meal with a sweet fruit tart for a delightful, fresh end note that leaves everyone smiling.
Each accompaniment enlivens the experience, making your gathering even more memorable.
Expert Tips for Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts
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Thaw Properly: Make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed for the best texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for about 2 hours.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Bake no more than 6 pastry squares per pan. This helps ensure even cooking and crispiness across all your Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts.
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Poke Holes: Lightly poke the pastry with a fork before baking. This prevents excessive puffing and keeps the filling where it belongs.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to substitute other cheeses or veggies, but be mindful of moisture content to avoid soggy tarts.
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Check Doneness: Keep an eye on your tarts during the last few minutes of baking. Golden brown edges mean you’re ready to savor these delightful bites!
Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe FAQs
What type of mushrooms work best for the tarts?
Absolutely! You can use any variety of mushrooms for your Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts. Button mushrooms are a classic choice for their mild flavor, while cremini or shiitake mushrooms bring a deeper umami punch. For a more distinctive taste, try using wild mushrooms like oyster or chanterelle.
How should I store leftover tarts?
Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will restore that lovely crispy texture, ensuring your tarts are just as delightful as when they were first baked.
Can I freeze Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts?
Certainly! For freezing, allow the tarts to cool completely after baking. Then wrap each tart tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, you can bake them directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again.
What can I do if the filling is too watery?
If you’re dealing with a watery filling, it could be from the mushrooms releasing moisture during cooking. To remedy this, ensure you cook the mushrooms until they’re properly reduced and most of the liquid has evaporated—this usually takes about 4-5 minutes after adding the wine. You could also add a pinch of cornstarch to the filling as a thickening agent, mixing it in right before filling the pastry squares.
Are these tarts suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are vegetarian-friendly, making them a perfect choice for gatherings with vegetarian guests. However, if you’re serving to someone with a dietary restriction, be mindful of specific cheese choices and ensure that all ingredients meet their needs.
Can I customize the recipes for dietary restrictions?
The wonderful aspect of these tarts is their versatility! If you’re looking to make them dairy-free, feel free to substitute with a plant-based cheese. For those who need gluten-free options, consider using gluten-free puff pastry or a savory chickpea flour crust. Just be sure to keep moisture levels balanced to avoid sogginess.
Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare two large baking pans.
- Arrange the puff pastry squares on the baking pans, leaving space in between each one. Poke holes in the dough with a fork.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the finely chopped shallots and minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms, along with any remaining olive oil and spices. Cook for 2 minutes, then pour in the white wine; simmer for 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the softened goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, and roughly chopped parsley until well combined.
- Spoon generous amounts of the filling onto each puff pastry square.
- Brush the edges of the pastries with the whisked egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and flaky.