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Mushroom Goat Cheese Tarts

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Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts transform simple ingredients into an elegant appetizer that's perfect for entertaining yet easy enough for casual gatherings. These savory bites start with store-bought puff pastry as the base, creating a flaky, buttery foundation. The star of the show is the filling - a flavorful mixture of sautéed cremini mushrooms, aromatic shallots, and garlic, mixed with creamy goat cheese and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. The earthiness of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the tangy goat cheese, while the herbs add a fragrant dimension to each bite. These small tarts bake quickly to golden perfection, with the pastry puffing around the edges to create a natural border for the savory filling. Versatile and impressive, they can be served warm from the oven or at room temperature, making them perfect for cocktail parties, holiday gatherings, or as a sophisticated starter for a dinner party.
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marry from tastelikemagic.com
Updated on Sun, 16 Mar 2025 03:23:35 GMT
A close up of a mushroom and cheese filled pastry. Pin it
A close up of a mushroom and cheese filled pastry. | tastelikemagic.com

Mushroom goat cheese tarts combine buttery puff pastry with savory mushrooms and tangy goat cheese to create an appetizer that is both rustic and sophisticated. These delightful bites feature earthy mushrooms sautéed with shallots and garlic, then mixed with creamy goat cheese and fresh herbs, all nestled atop flaky pastry squares that puff up beautifully while baking.

I first created these tarts for an impromptu gathering when I needed something elegant yet simple. What started as a quick solution turned into my signature appetizer, requested at every gathering. Watching guests' reactions as they take their first bite is my favorite part—there's always a moment of surprise when they realize these taste even better than they look.

Ingredients List

  • Puff pastry: Provides a crisp, flaky base that enhances the creamy filling.
  • Cremini mushrooms: Offer a rich, umami flavor and meaty texture.
  • Shallots: Add subtle sweetness and depth to the filling.
  • Garlic: Enhances the savory, aromatic profile of the mushrooms.
  • Goat cheese: Contributes tangy creaminess that balances the dish.
  • Fresh herbs: Thyme, rosemary, and parsley brighten the flavors.
  • Olive oil: Used for sautéing, adding mild richness to the dish.

Cooking Method

Preheat Your Oven:
Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Pastry:
Roll out thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 3-4 inch squares or circles.
Create Pastry Borders:
Transfer pastry pieces to the baking sheet. Prick the center with a fork, leaving a border untouched.
Sauté Aromatics:
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet. Cook shallots for 2-3 minutes until soft.
Cook the Mushrooms:
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in finely chopped mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden.
Season Thoughtfully:
Season with salt, pepper, and half of the chopped fresh herbs. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
Combine with Cheese:
Mix softened goat cheese into the cooled mushroom mixture.
Assemble the Tarts:
Spoon 1 tbsp of filling onto each pastry square, keeping within the pricked center.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the pastry edges are golden brown.
Rest Briefly:
Let the tarts cool for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with remaining fresh herbs and serve warm.
Two mushroom pies on a plate. Pin it
Two mushroom pies on a plate. | tastelikemagic.com

My first attempt at these tarts taught me that patience is key when cooking mushrooms. Rushing the process left my tarts soggy, but taking the time to properly sauté them until golden transformed the texture and flavor. Another game-changer was docking the pastry center, which prevented puffing in the wrong places and ensured a balanced tart structure.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a cheese board featuring brie, aged cheddar, and honey for an elegant spread.

Serve alongside a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a well-rounded appetizer course.

Offer as a side to roasted chicken or a creamy soup for a more substantial meal.

Creative Variations

Swap goat cheese for blue cheese and add chopped walnuts for a bold, nutty flavor.

Incorporate roasted red peppers and manchego cheese for a Spanish-inspired twist.

Mix in sun-dried tomatoes and kalamata olives for a Mediterranean take on these tarts.

Make-Ahead Tips

Prepare the mushroom mixture up to two days in advance and refrigerate until needed.

Assemble the tarts and refrigerate unbaked for up to 12 hours before baking.

Freeze fully baked tarts for up to a month; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Two mushroom and cheese pastries on a plate. Pin it
Two mushroom and cheese pastries on a plate. | tastelikemagic.com

These mushroom goat cheese tarts have become my go-to appetizer, striking the perfect balance between rustic charm and refined elegance. The crisp pastry, creamy goat cheese, and rich mushrooms make each bite an unforgettable experience. Whether for a holiday gathering or a casual evening with friends, they always steal the show.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these tarts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mushroom and goat cheese filling up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the tarts just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
→ What can I substitute for goat cheese?
If you don't care for goat cheese, cream cheese, ricotta, or even brie make excellent substitutes. Each will provide a different flavor profile while maintaining the creamy texture needed for the filling.
→ Can I freeze these tarts?
Yes, you can freeze them either before or after baking. For unbaked tarts, freeze until solid then transfer to freezer bags. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time. For baked tarts, freeze, then reheat at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
→ What mushrooms work best in this recipe?
Cremini or button mushrooms are specified in the recipe, but you can also use wild mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, or a mixture for more complex flavors. Just make sure to finely chop them for the best texture.
→ How do I prevent my puff pastry from getting soggy?
Make sure your mushroom mixture isn't too wet by cooking until the liquid has evaporated. Pricking the pastry with a fork before adding the filling and not overloading the tarts also helps. For extra insurance, you can blind bake the pastry for 5 minutes before adding the filling.

Mushroom Goat Cheese Tarts

These Mushroom Goat Cheese Tarts feature buttery puff pastry topped with sautéed mushrooms, shallots, and creamy goat cheese for an elegant appetizer that's easy to prepare.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
By: Marry


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: French-inspired

Yield: 12 Servings (12 small tarts)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Pastry Base

01 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

→ For the Filling

02 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, finely chopped
03 2 medium shallots, finely diced
04 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 8 ounces goat cheese, softened
06 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), chopped
07 2 tablespoons olive oil
08 Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 01

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is perfect for getting that gorgeous golden puff on the pastry while making sure the bottom cooks through completely. Getting your oven nice and hot before you start assembling the tarts means it'll be ready right when you need it!

Step 02

Take your thawed puff pastry sheet (it should be cold but pliable) and roll it out slightly on a lightly floured surface. Don't go too thin – we want these tarts to have some substance! Using a knife or cookie cutter, cut the dough into squares or circles about 3-4 inches across. I find squares are easier and waste less pastry, but circles look a bit more elegant. Transfer these pieces to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one for expansion.

Step 03

Grab a skillet and set it over medium heat. Pour in the olive oil and once it's shimmering, add those finely diced shallots. Cook them until they're soft and translucent – about 2-3 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and give it a quick stir until fragrant (this only takes about 30 seconds). Now add your chopped mushrooms to the pan. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, until they've released their moisture and started to brown – about 5-7 minutes. This caramelization is where all that deep, earthy flavor comes from! Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 04

Transfer your sautéed mushroom mixture to a mixing bowl and let it cool for a few minutes. Then add the softened goat cheese and those fragrant fresh herbs. Mix everything together until well combined. The warmth from the mushrooms will help the goat cheese soften further, making it easier to blend. Take a little taste and adjust the seasoning if needed – this is your chance to make it perfect!

Step 05

Using a fork, prick the center of each pastry square or circle several times – this helps prevent the center from puffing up too much while still allowing the edges to rise. Now spoon a generous dollop of your mushroom and goat cheese mixture into the middle of each piece of pastry. Spread it out slightly, but be sure to leave about a half-inch border around the edges so the pastry can puff up properly around the filling.

Step 06

Pop your assembled tarts into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You're looking for that magical moment when the pastry turns beautifully golden brown and puffs up gloriously around the edges. The filling should be slightly bubbly and set. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on them toward the end – these can go from perfectly golden to overly brown pretty quickly!

Step 07

Once your tarts are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period allows the filling to set up a bit more and makes them easier to handle. These little bites of heaven can be served warm or at room temperature – they're fabulous either way! For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a few more fresh herbs on top just before serving.

Notes

  1. These elegant Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts combine buttery puff pastry with a savory filling that balances earthy mushrooms, tangy goat cheese, and aromatic herbs.
  2. Feel free to experiment with different mushroom varieties - a mix of wild mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, or chanterelle would create an even more complex flavor profile.
  3. These tarts make a perfect appetizer for entertaining, but can also be served alongside a simple green salad for a light lunch or dinner.
  4. You can prepare the mushroom and goat cheese filling up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, making assembly quick and easy right before your guests arrive.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Knife or cookie cutter
  • Fork

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains gluten (puff pastry)
  • Contains dairy (goat cheese)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 145
  • Total Fat: 11 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 9 g
  • Protein: 5 g