Name: Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 10 4-inch puff pastry sheet squares; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (any kind); 1 shallot, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/3 cup parsley leaves, roughly chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese; 4 oz goat cheese; 1/4 teaspoon sage; 1/4 teaspoon thyme; 1/4 teaspoon rosemary; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 cup white wine (can substitute with chicken broth); 1 egg, whisked (for egg wash)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a savory, melt-in-your-mouth treat that marries earthy mushrooms with creamy, tangy cheese, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe. Each bite offers a delightful combination of tender mushrooms, fragrant shallots, and luscious herbed goat cheese, all encased in perfectly crispy, golden puff pastry. Whether you’re serving these tarts at a cozy brunch, a fancy dinner party, or just indulging on a weeknight, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Two square-shaped pastries with golden-brown, flaky crusts form the base layer, puffed and slightly crispy at the edges. Each pastry is topped with a creamy mushroom mixture that is light beige with hints of green herbs spread evenly over the surface. The mushrooms on top are sliced thick and cooked, appearing dark brown with soft textures. These two pastries are placed on a wooden serving board with visible grain patterns, all set against a white marbled surface in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a starring role, making this recipe wonderfully simple but incredibly flavorful. The puff pastry provides that flaky, buttery base, while the mushrooms and shallots bring earthiness and subtle sweetness. The herbed goat cheese, combined with parmesan and fresh parsley, elevates the tart with hints of herbaceous brightness and creamy richness.

10 4-inch puff pastry squares: The perfect size to hold the filling without feeling too heavy or fiddly.
8 oz mushrooms, sliced: Use any kind you love; they add a meaty texture and deep umami flavor.
1 finely chopped shallot: Adds a mild oniony sweetness that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
3 minced garlic cloves: Boost the aroma and savoriness of the filling.
1/3 cup roughly chopped parsley leaves: Brings fresh, green flavor and a pop of color.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing, enhancing flavor without overpowering the delicate ingredients.
1/4 cup parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty punch that deepens the overall taste.
4 oz goat cheese: The hero ingredient offering tangy creaminess and a soft texture that melts beautifully.
1/4 teaspoon each of sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper: A carefully curated herb blend that brings savory complexity and aroma.
1 whisked egg: For the egg wash, creating a glossy, golden crust on the pastry’s exposed edges.
1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth): Adds a subtle acidity and depth to the mushroom mixture.

How to Make Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Dock the Puff Pastry

Start by heating your oven to a toasty 400°F and lay out two large baking sheets. Arrange your puff pastry squares spaced out, ensuring they have room to puff up beautifully. Docking the dough with a fork creates tiny vents so the pastry rises evenly without blistering or bubbling too much — a small step that makes a big difference in the final texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and toss in the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic. Within a couple of minutes, add the sliced mushrooms along with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle in your blend of sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. This step begins layering deep, fragrant flavors and softening the mushrooms perfectly. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth to deglaze, letting it simmer until mostly evaporated, concentrating the taste intensively.

Step 3: Creamy Cheese Mixture

Turn off the heat and stir in the crumbled goat cheese, parmesan, and fresh parsley. The warmth from the pan gently melts the cheese into a silky, rich filling that binds everything together, giving you that luxurious texture you’ll adore in each tart.

Step 4: Assemble the Tarts

Ladle a generous spoonful of the mushroom and cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry square. You can leave the edges open to create a classic square tart or pinch the sides to form lovely shapes. Whether you curve each corner or fold two sides into cute tart boats, this is your chance to get creative and make each tart uniquely yours. Don’t be shy about topping off with extra filling for an enticing look and even more flavor.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the exposed pastry edges generously with the whisked egg to achieve that irresistible golden sheen and crispness. Pop the trays in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the puff pastry is puffed, flaky, and beautifully browned. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is winning already!

How to Serve Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe

A close-up of a small tart with two layers: the bottom layer is a golden brown puff pastry crust with raised, folded edges, showing a crispy and slightly flaky texture; the top layer is a creamy mushroom mixture with visible slices of dark brown mushrooms and specks of green herbs, spread evenly inside the pastry shell. The tart sits on a wooden surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A scattering of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra parmesan right out of the oven adds a lovely fresh touch and makes the tarts look as vibrant as they taste. For a bit of brightness, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a few sliced green onions can elevate each tart fantastically.

Side Dishes

These tarts pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, which adds crunch and balances out the richness. Roasted root vegetables or a simple tomato soup can turn this dish into a more substantial meal while maintaining harmony of flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these tarts on a wooden board lined with parchment for a charming rustic vibe, or arrange them on a bright, elegant platter for a dinner party centerpiece. You can also make mini versions for bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering or personalize with toppings like caramelized onions or fresh thyme sprigs to match your mood and occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They stay flavorful but might lose a bit of their crispness, which you can revive with a quick reheat.

Freezing

These tarts freeze well when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil or stored in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to one month. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to help maintain their delicious texture.

Reheating

To bring back that flaky crispiness after storage or freezing, reheat the tarts in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the pastry from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of goat cheese?

Absolutely! While goat cheese gives a tangy creaminess, cream cheese or ricotta can be great substitutes. Just keep in mind these alternatives will change the texture slightly but still be delicious.

What mushrooms work best for this recipe?

You can use button, cremini, shiitake, or even a wild mushroom mix. Each brings its own unique flavor, so feel free to experiment depending on what you love or what’s in season.

Is it possible to make these tarts vegan?

Yes! Swap the puff pastry for a vegan version, use olive oil instead of butter, replace goat cheese with a plant-based cheese, and the egg wash with a mixture of plant milk and maple syrup for a lovely golden finish.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Definitely. The mushroom and cheese filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature or warm slightly before assembling the tarts for best results.

How can I make these tarts gluten-free?

Look for gluten-free puff pastry options at your grocery store or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Make sure all other ingredients you use are gluten-free certified to keep the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about these Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe that makes them irresistible — from the flaky golden puff pastry to the luscious, savory filling. I can’t recommend enough giving them a try yourself because each bite feels like a little celebration on your palate. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these tarts are fun to make and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to share them with you.