If you have a craving for something elegant yet comfortingly simple, this Mushroom Goat Cheese Tart Recipe is an absolute must-try. The combination of earthy mushrooms, tangy goat cheese, and flaky golden crust creates a mouthwatering symphony of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch or simply treating yourself to a special dinner, this savory tart delivers both sophistication and warmth without any fuss. Trust me, once you taste this tart, it will quickly become a favorite go-to in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the rustic charm and depth of this tart. From the buttery puff pastry base to the robust blend of mushrooms and cheeses, every component adds its own unique flavor and texture to the final masterpiece.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed) or homemade tart dough: Provides a flaky, buttery foundation that bakes to golden perfection.
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing): Gives the crust a brilliant golden shine and a slight crispness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: Used for sautéing, adds richness and depth to the mushroom filling.
- 1 shallot, finely chopped: Brings a sweet, mild onion flavor to the mix.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Lends a fragrant, savory aroma that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini, shiitake, or button): The star ingredient, offering earthy, meaty texture and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried): Adds a subtle herbal note that brightens the filling.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances all the natural tastes.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle spice kick to lift the palate.
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled: Creates a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory mushrooms.
- ¼ cup heavy cream or sour cream: Adds luscious moisture and richness to the tart.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional): Introduces a layer of depth and slight sharpness to the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty finish that makes the tart irresistible.
How to Make Mushroom Goat Cheese Tart Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, roll out your puff pastry and gently place it into your tart pan or onto a lined baking sheet. Using a fork, prick the surface lightly; this simple trick stops the dough from puffing up excessively and keeps the crust perfectly thin and crisp.
Step 2: Brush the Crust
Brush the edges of your pastry with the egg yolk. This step is the secret to that gorgeous golden color and a slightly firmer edge that contrasts beautifully with the tender filling. It adds an inviting look to your tart that’s sure to impress anyone at the table.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms
Warm the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat and toss in the shallots and garlic. Let them cook just until they release their delightful aroma—about a minute. Then, add the mushrooms with thyme, salt, and pepper, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and turn a lovely golden hue. This mixture will be bursting with earthy, savory goodness that sets the stage for the tart.
Step 4: Assemble the Tart
If you’re opting for a little extra flavor complexity, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the pastry base. Then evenly distribute your now-cooked mushroom mixture above the mustard. Crumble the goat cheese over the mushrooms—this adds creamy, tangy pockets throughout every slice.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese Topping
Drizzle the heavy cream or sour cream all over the tart for that final touch of silky richness. Finish by sprinkling the Parmesan cheese on top; this adds a satisfying salty crunch after baking that takes the tart from great to unforgettable.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your tart into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust is beautifully crisp with a rich golden color and the cheese has melted into a bubbly, slightly browned topping. Let it cool just five minutes before slicing—this little wait lets the flavors settle, making each bite irresistibly satisfying.
How to Serve Mushroom Goat Cheese Tart Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley adds a pop of color and fresh fragrance that complements the earthiness of the mushrooms. Consider a few fresh microgreens for an elegant touch that elevates the presentation and adds delicate texture.
Side Dishes
This tart pairs wonderfully with lightly dressed mixed greens or a crisp arugula salad to cut through the richness. A simple side of roasted vegetables or a bowl of tomato soup also makes for a perfectly balanced meal, making your Mushroom Goat Cheese Tart Recipe a centerpiece that shines.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve the tart as bite-sized appetizers by cutting it into small squares or rectangles. You can also make mini tarts using a muffin tin for individual bites that look impressive and make sharing easy. Adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top just before serving introduces a sweet tang that jazzes things up further.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Mushroom Goat Cheese Tart Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain the crust’s crispness and prevent the mushroom filling from drying out. Enjoy it cold or reheated!
Freezing
You can freeze the baked tart by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It’s best eaten within one month for optimal freshness. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the textures and flavors as much as possible.
Reheating
To bring your tart back to life, warm it gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that flaky, crisp crust—the oven reheats it evenly and restores the perfect bite every time.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?
Absolutely! Fresh thyme offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor, while dried thyme is more concentrated and slightly earthier. Use about two teaspoons of fresh thyme in place of one teaspoon dried for the best balance.
Is it possible to make this tart gluten-free?
Definitely. Swap out the puff pastry with a store-bought or homemade gluten-free tart crust. Just be mindful of baking times and textures, as gluten-free doughs can behave a bit differently but will still produce a delicious result.
Can I substitute goat cheese with another cheese?
While goat cheese is ideal for its tangy creaminess, feta or ricotta can be lovely alternatives. Each will change the flavor profile slightly, but they all complement the mushrooms nicely.
What mushrooms work best for this tart?
Cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms are all excellent choices. Combining different varieties creates more depth and texture, increasing the earthy and savory appeal of the tart.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes! Sauté the mushrooms, shallots, and garlic and store them in the fridge for up to two days before assembling the tart. This can save time on the day you want to bake and serve your delicious Mushroom Goat Cheese Tart Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing this Mushroom Goat Cheese Tart Recipe. It feels luxurious without being complicated, and every forkful is a celebration of perfect harmony between simple ingredients. Whether for a casual lunch or a festive gathering, I encourage you to give this tart a try—you might just find a new favorite that’s easy to rely on and impossible to resist.
Print
Mushroom Goat Cheese Tart Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Savory Tart
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A savory Mushroom Goat Cheese Tart featuring a flaky puff pastry crust filled with sautéed mushrooms, creamy goat cheese, and a hint of thyme. This elegant yet easy-to-make tart combines rich flavors with a golden, crisp crust, perfect as a appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Pastry and Topping
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed) or homemade tart dough
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese (for extra richness)
Mushroom Filling
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini, shiitake, or button)
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup heavy cream or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking the tart.
- Prepare Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry and place it in a tart pan or on a lined baking sheet for easy handling and baking.
- Dock the Pastry: Use a fork to prick the surface of the pastry lightly, which will help prevent it from puffing up too much as it bakes.
- Brush Edges: Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg yolk to give the crust a beautiful golden color and glossy finish when baked.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms along with thyme, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms have softened and turned golden brown.
- Optional Mustard Layer: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the prepared pastry to add a subtle depth of flavor.
- Assemble Filling: Evenly spread the cooked mushroom mixture over the pastry base to create the savory filling layer.
- Add Goat Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the mushroom mixture to add creamy richness.
- Add Cream and Parmesan: Drizzle heavy cream or sour cream on top and then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese to enhance the tart’s flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the crust is crisp and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the tart to cool for 5 minutes after baking, then slice and serve warm to enjoy the full flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can use any combination of mushrooms such as cremini, shiitake, or button based on preference or availability.
- Dijon mustard is optional but adds an excellent layer of flavor to the tart.
- For a richer tart, substitute sour cream with heavy cream or vice versa according to your taste.
- This tart is best served warm as the flavors and textures are most pronounced.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven for best results.
