These Easy Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts are a delightful treat! Crispy pastry filled with sautéed mushrooms and creamy goat cheese creates a tasty bite that’s sure to impress.
If you love quick and yummy snacks, this is it! They’re perfect for a party or just a cozy night in. I often serve them with a side salad for a light, yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry is the star of the dish! If you can’t find it, phyllo dough can work, but be aware that it needs to be layered and may result in a crunchier tart.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini for their rich flavor, but button or shiitake mushrooms can be great alternatives. If you’re looking for a meatier texture, try adding portobello mushrooms!
Goat Cheese: While goat cheese adds a tangy creaminess, it can be swapped with ricotta or feta if needed. Just keep in mind the flavor will change a bit!
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma, but dried thyme works too. If you’re not a thyme fan, consider using rosemary or even a dash of Italian seasoning.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Mushrooms for My Tarts?
Cooking mushrooms right makes a huge difference in flavor! The key is to not overcrowd the pan. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your oil or butter until hot, then add the garlic quickly to prevent it from burning.
- Once fragrant, toss in the mushrooms in a single layer. Let them brown without stirring for a few minutes.
- Stir occasionally until they’re all softened. This should take about 7-8 minutes.
- Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper as they cook for boosted flavor!
Easy Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tarts:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (about 8 oz), thawed
- 8 oz mushrooms (such as cremini or button), cleaned and sliced
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: fresh parsley or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 18 minutes of baking time, for a total of about 40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil or butter. Once it’s hot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it smells delicious. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and thyme. Cook until the mushrooms have softened and turned golden brown, which should take around 7-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat and let them cool a bit.
3. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet. Cut it into 6 equal squares. Take a knife and lightly score a smaller square about ½ inch inside the edge of each pastry square, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will help your tarts puff up nicely around the edges!
4. Assemble the Tarts:
Place the pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet. Inside each scored square, spread about 2 tablespoons of softened goat cheese. Then, spoon the sautéed mushrooms evenly over the goat cheese on each tart.
5. Brush with Egg Wash:
For that beautiful golden color, brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg.
6. Bake the Tarts:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and a lovely golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take the tarts out of the oven. You can garnish them with fresh parsley or chives for a nice touch. Serve them warm as a delicious appetizer or a light meal!
Enjoy your delicious mushroom and goat cheese tarts!
FAQ for Easy Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using. This will help the pastry puff up beautifully while baking.
Can I Substitute Other Cheeses?
Yes, you can! If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, cream cheese or ricotta can work nicely. For a stronger flavor, consider using feta or even shredded mozzarella!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This will help retain their crispiness!
Can I Make These Tarts Vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Just ensure any additional ingredients you plan to add, like vegetables or herbs, fit your dietary preferences!
