Mushroom Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts – Elegant, Savory, and Effortlessly Impressive

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Mushroom Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are the kind of appetizer that instantly elevates any table. Flaky puff pastry, caramelized shallots, savory mushrooms, and tangy herbed goat cheese come together in a bite that feels luxurious yet approachable. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a holiday menu, or simply craving a sophisticated vegetarian dish, these tarts deliver restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

What makes these tarts truly special is the balance. Earthy mushrooms bring depth and umami, while slowly cooked shallots add subtle sweetness. Goat cheese provides creamy richness and a gentle tang, enhanced by fresh herbs that brighten every bite. All of this is layered on crisp, golden puff pastry that shatters beautifully when you cut into it.

Despite their elegant appearance, these tarts are surprisingly easy to make. Using store-bought puff pastry keeps preparation simple, making this recipe perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners looking to impress.

Why Mushroom and Goat Cheese Are a Perfect Match

Mushrooms and goat cheese have long been a classic pairing in French-inspired cooking. Mushrooms offer a meaty, savory backbone, while goat cheese cuts through that richness with acidity and creaminess. Adding herbs like thyme and rosemary enhances both elements, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Shallots play a quiet but crucial role in this recipe. Sweeter and milder than onions, they caramelize beautifully and complement the tangy goat cheese without overpowering it. Together, these ingredients form a filling that’s complex, comforting, and irresistibly savory.

Ingredients

  • 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
  • 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 large shallots, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 oz goat cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Fresh herbs, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced shallots and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized.
  3. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release moisture and turn golden, about 6–8 minutes.
  4. Stir in garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 more minute, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. Roll out puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut each into equal rectangles or squares.
  6. Score a small border around each pastry piece without cutting through.
  7. Spread a thin layer of goat cheese inside the scored border.
  8. Top with mushroom-shallot mixture, distributing evenly.
  9. Brush pastry edges with beaten egg.
  10. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.
  11. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Mushroom Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

Flaky puff pastry tarts filled with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized shallots, and creamy herbed goat cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 8 tarts
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: French-Inspired, Vegetarian
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

  • 2 sheets puff pastry thawed
  • 8 oz mushrooms sliced
  • 2 shallots sliced
  • 4 oz goat cheese softened
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary chopped

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

  1. Sauté shallots and mushrooms until golden.
  2. Season with garlic and herbs, then cool slightly.
  3. Cut and score puff pastry.
  4. Spread goat cheese and top with mushrooms.
  5. Bake until golden and puffed.

Notes

Serve warm for best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Perfect Tarts

  • Allow mushroom mixture to cool slightly to prevent soggy pastry
  • Don’t overload the filling—less ensures crisp layers
  • Use chilled pastry for the best puff and flakiness
  • Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference in flavor

Variations

  • Add Caramelized Onions: Replace shallots for a sweeter flavor
  • Extra Cheese: Mix goat cheese with cream cheese for milder tang
  • Truffle Twist: Drizzle with truffle oil before serving
  • Mini Bites: Cut pastry smaller for cocktail-size appetizers

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tarts warm as an appetizer, brunch item, or light lunch alongside a crisp green salad. They pair beautifully with sparkling wine, white wine, or herbal teas, making them ideal for gatherings and special occasions.

Storage & Make-Ahead

These tarts are best fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness. Assemble ahead and bake just before serving for maximum freshness.

Leave a Reply