Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful appetizer or a charming snack, these Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are an absolute must-try. With their flaky puff pastry crust embracing a creamy, savory filling of earthy mushrooms, sweet shallots, and tangy herbed goat cheese, every bite is a delicious harmony of textures and flavors. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly special that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring all by yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role: the puff pastry provides a buttery, flaky base, mushrooms and shallots offer rich, aromatic depth, and the herbed goat cheese brings a luscious creaminess that ties everything together with a fresh herbal note.

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed: The flaky foundation that gives these tarts their delightful crispness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the mushrooms and shallots, adding subtle fruity richness.
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped (cremini or button): Earthy and meaty, these form the heart of the filling.
• 1 shallot, finely chopped: Brings a mild sweetness and deeper flavor nuance compared to onions.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory kick that brightens the filling.
• 4 ounces herbed goat cheese, softened: Creamy and tangy with fresh herbs that lift the whole tart.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the filling luxuriously smooth and silky.
• 1 large egg: Binds the filling together for perfect set during baking.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), for garnish: Adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness when served.

How to Make Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your tarts will bake evenly and develop that irresistible golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare Your Puff Pastry

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut it into squares or circles that will fit snugly into your tartlet molds. Having a uniform size helps the tarts bake evenly, so take your time here.

Step 3: Fit Pastry into Tartlet Molds

Carefully place the pastry pieces into the molds, gently pressing to fit. Prick the bottom of each pastry shell with a fork to prevent it from puffing up too much during baking, keeping a nice base for your filling.

Step 4: Sauté Mushrooms, Shallots, and Garlic

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, shallots, and garlic, cooking until the mushrooms lose their moisture and become tender, and the shallots turn translucent—usually about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 5: Prepare the Herbed Goat Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese with heavy cream and beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the egg and whisk until fully incorporated. This creamy base will hold all those wonderful flavors together inside your tarts.

Step 6: Combine the Filling

Fold the sautéed mushroom and shallot mixture into the cheese blend gently but thoroughly. Make sure every bite will have a perfect balance of tender vegetables and luscious cheese.

Step 7: Fill and Bake the Tarts

Generously spoon the filling into the prepared pastry shells, filling them right to the top. Place your tartlets on a baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the pastry edges are golden brown and the filling has set with a slight puff.

Step 8: Cool and Garnish

Remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before carefully unmolding. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a burst of color and an inviting aroma.

How to Serve Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

Garnishes

Fresh herbs are your best friend here. A sprinkle of thyme or parsley not only enhances the appearance but also brings a fresh, green note that complements the rich filling perfectly. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few chili flakes can add a little extra excitement if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

These tarts pair beautifully with crisp, lightly dressed greens such as arugula or baby spinach, balancing their richness with bright, peppery flavors. A simple soup like roasted tomato or a light vegetable broth also works wonderfully as a starter to this dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts as elegant finger food at a party by slicing them into mini portions on a platter adorned with assorted fresh herbs. You can also present them as an entree by stacking the tarts alongside a colorful vegetable salad studded with nuts or roasted seeds for crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, they can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Storing them properly helps preserve the flaky crust and creamy center so you can enjoy the deliciousness later.

Freezing

These tarts freeze beautifully, making them a convenient make-ahead option. Wrap each tart individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months—perfect for unexpected guests or busy weeknights.

Reheating

To reheat, place the tarts on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture.

FAQs

Can I use any type of mushrooms for these tarts?

Absolutely! Cremini or button mushrooms work wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with shiitake, oyster, or even wild mushrooms for more complex flavors.

Is it possible to make these tarts vegan?

You can try substituting the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and using a vegan puff pastry, but the texture and flavor will differ from the original.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes! The mushroom, shallot, and cheese filling can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge, making assembly and baking quicker when you’re ready.

What if I don’t have tartlet molds?

No worries! You can shape the puff pastry onto a baking sheet and create open-faced tarts or use muffin tins as an alternative mold.

How do I ensure the pastry stays crispy?

Pricking the bottom before baking prevents excessive puffing, and reheating in the oven rather than the microwave helps keep the crust crisp.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a recipe that feels both indulgent and approachable, Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are your new go-to. They blend simple ingredients into something truly magical, perfect for entertaining or treating yourself on any day. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly earn a spot in your recipe rotation.

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