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Elegant Mushroom Goat Cheese Tarts – A Savory, Flaky Appetizer

When you want to impress guests with something beautiful, flavorful, and easy, these Elegant Mushroom Goat Cheese Tarts are the perfect choice. Flaky puff pastry forms the golden base, while caramelized mushrooms, herbs, and tangy goat cheese create a luscious, savory topping. These tarts look like they came straight from a French café but require only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. They’re ideal for brunches, dinner parties, or as a holiday appetizer that pairs beautifully with wine, salad, or soup. Every bite delivers the perfect contrast — buttery crisp pastry, creamy goat cheese, and earthy mushrooms infused with garlic and herbs. Simple, elegant, and guaranteed to impress.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 tarts
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
  • 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms finely sliced
  • 2 medium shallots finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 oz goat cheese softened
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Skillet or sauté pan
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Oven
  • Pastry brush
  • Optional:
  • Round cutter (for individual tarts)
  • Rolling pin (to thin pastry if desired)

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Roll out puff pastry slightly and cut into 6 squares (or circles using a cutter).
  4. Score a small border (½ inch) around each piece to allow edges to puff up.
  5. Place on prepared baking sheet and prick the centers lightly with a fork.
Step 2: Cook the Mushroom Filling
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add shallots and cook for 2 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add mushrooms and sauté until golden brown and soft, about 8 minutes.
  4. Stir in garlic and fresh herbs; cook another minute.
  5. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
  1. Spread a thin layer of goat cheese on each puff pastry square, staying within the scored border.
  2. Spoon the mushroom mixture evenly on top of the goat cheese.
Step 4: Bake
  1. Brush pastry edges with olive oil.
  2. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Garnish with extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
  2. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked tarts for up to 2 months; reheat in oven to crisp.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes until warm and flaky.
🥄 Variations
Caramelized Onion Mushroom Tarts: Add caramelized onions for sweetness.
Spinach & Goat Cheese Tarts: Add sautéed spinach for a green twist.
Truffle Version: Drizzle truffle oil over the mushrooms before serving.
Balsamic Glaze Finish: Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction for tangy contrast.
Mini Tartlets: Cut pastry into smaller rounds for bite-sized appetizers.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes! It’s a huge time saver and works beautifully for this recipe.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the mushroom filling in advance and assemble before baking.
Can I use other cheese besides goat cheese?
Yes, feta, ricotta, or cream cheese are great alternatives.
Do I need to blind-bake the puff pastry?
No, just score and prick the center to prevent puffing too much.
Can I use wild mushrooms?
Absolutely! Try a mix of shiitake, oyster, or portobello for depth of flavor.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes, use vegan puff pastry and dairy-free cheese.
Can I serve them cold?
They’re best warm, but still delicious at room temperature.
What herbs go best with mushrooms?
Thyme, rosemary, and parsley pair wonderfully.
Can I add meat?
Yes, top with crumbled bacon or prosciutto for extra richness.
Can I make one large tart instead of mini ones?
Definitely! Bake a full sheet tart and slice before serving.
🏁 Conclusion
These Elegant Mushroom Goat Cheese Tarts are the perfect combination of flaky, creamy, and savory. They’re the kind of appetizer that looks impressive but is simple enough to make anytime.
Serve them for brunch, dinner parties, or holiday celebrations — they’ll vanish within minutes. With earthy mushrooms, tangy goat cheese, and buttery puff pastry, every bite tastes like a little piece of heaven.