Introduction
Transform humble mushrooms and shallots into elegant, savory tarts that are surprisingly easy to make! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated appetizer, proving that delicious doesn’t have to be difficult. Get ready to impress your friends and family with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Why This Works
This recipe strikes the perfect balance of earthy mushrooms, sweet shallots, and tangy goat cheese. The flaky pastry crust provides a delightful contrast in texture, while the fresh herbs add a bright, aromatic finish. It’s a showstopper that comes together quickly, using readily available ingredients.
Key Ingredients
🍄 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
🧅 2 shallots, finely chopped
🐐 4 oz goat cheese, softened
🌿 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
🌿 2 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
🥚 1 large egg, beaten
🧂 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
🫓 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or use paper liners.
2️⃣ In a medium skillet, sauté the shallots in a tablespoon of olive oil until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3️⃣ In a small bowl, gently combine the softened goat cheese, thyme, and rosemary.
4️⃣ Unroll the pie crusts and use a 3-inch cookie cutter or knife to cut out circles. Press each circle into the muffin tin cups to form the tart shells.
5️⃣ Divide the mushroom and shallot mixture evenly among the tart shells. Top each with a spoonful of the herbed goat cheese mixture.
6️⃣ Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg.
7️⃣ Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
8️⃣ Let the tarts cool slightly in the tin before serving.
Handy Tips
- Feel free to substitute other mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, for a different flavor profile.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary.
- For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the mushroom and shallot mixture.
- To prevent soggy bottoms, pre-bake the tart shells for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling.
Heat Control
The oven temperature of 375°F (190°C) is crucial for achieving a perfectly golden-brown crust and a warm, melted goat cheese filling. Overbaking will result in a dry crust and potentially burnt filling. Keep a close eye on the tarts during the last 5 minutes of baking. They are done when the crust is deeply golden and the filling is bubbly.
Crunch Factor
The crunch comes primarily from the flaky pie crust. Ensure you handle the dough gently to prevent tearing and achieve a delicate, crisp texture. Pre-baking the tart shells slightly helps to ensure a crisp base.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For perfectly even tart shells, use a cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut the circles from the pastry.
- To prevent sticking, lightly grease your muffin tin or use paper liners.
- A quick pulse of the mushrooms and shallots in a food processor before sautéing will result in a more even texture.
- Clean up is a breeze! Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any spills.
Storage Tips
Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Gift Packaging Ideas
These adorable tarts are perfect for gifting! Arrange them in a beautiful box lined with parchment paper, or individually wrap each tart in cellophane tied with a ribbon. Add a handwritten tag with the recipe for an extra-special touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom and shallot mixture for a spicy kick.
🌟 Garlic Lover’s: Mince a clove of garlic and sauté it with the shallots for added flavor.
🌟 Caramelized Onion: Use caramelized onions instead of sautéed shallots for a sweeter, richer flavor.
🌟 Walnut Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the goat cheese before baking for added texture and flavor.
Troubleshooting
- Soggy Bottom: Pre-bake the tart shells for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling.
- Overcooked Crust: Reduce oven temperature by 25°F and monitor closely.
- Dry Filling: Add a teaspoon of cream or milk to the goat cheese mixture.
FAQ
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the tarts ahead of time and bake them just before serving.
- What can I substitute for goat cheese? Feta cheese or cream cheese would also work well.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, simply double all the ingredients and use two packages of pie crusts.
- Are these gluten-free? No, but you can use a gluten-free pie crust to make them gluten-free.
- Are these dairy-free? No, but you could experiment with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Conclusion
These Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Experiment with different herbs, cheeses, and spices to create your own unique variations. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and enjoy the delicious results!
Savory Mushroom & Goat Cheese Tarts: A Bite of Heaven
Deliciously flaky tarts filled with a rich mixture of sautu00e9ed mushrooms and creamy goat cheese, perfect for appetizers or a light meal.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200u00b0C (400u00b0F).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add sliced mushrooms. Sautu00e9 until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and thyme, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, combine the sautu00e9ed mushrooms, goat cheese, and heavy cream. Mix well.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 4 squares.
- Place the pastry squares onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spoon the mushroom and cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry square, leaving a border around the edges.
- Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, creating a border. Brush the edges with beaten egg.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.
Tips
- For added flavor, you can mix in some sautu00e9ed onions or spinach with the mushrooms.
- Make sure to keep an eye on the tarts while baking to avoid over-browning.