These tasty mushroom and goat cheese tartlets are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer! Flaky pastry holds creamy goat cheese and flavorful mushrooms that bring smiles to every bite.
Honestly, who can resist warm cheese? I love serving these at gatherings, and they always vanish quickly! They’re so simple to make that you’ll want to whip them up often.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the base of your tartlets, creating that flaky, delicious crust. If you want to make it from scratch, great! Otherwise, store-bought is very convenient. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free puff pastry in stores.
Mushrooms: I suggest cremini or button mushrooms for their excellent flavor, but you can also use shiitake or portobello for a more intense taste. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you could swap them with spinach or roasted peppers.
Goat Cheese: The creamy tanginess of goat cheese is hard to beat! However, if you’re not a fan, feta or ricotta can be great substitutes. Keep in mind the taste will change slightly depending on what you choose.
Herbs: Fresh thyme gives a wonderful aroma to the tartlets. You could also try rosemary or parsley. Fresh herbs typically provide a bolder flavor, but dried herbs can work in a pinch (just use less).
What’s the Best Method for Sautéing Mushrooms?
Sautéing mushrooms might seem easy, but there are a few tips to ensure they turn out perfectly! You want mushrooms to be golden and flavorful.
- Start with medium heat to let your mushrooms cook evenly without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—this helps them brown rather than steam. Cook in batches if needed!
- Season with salt only after they start to brown, as salt can draw out moisture and cause them to steam.
With these tips, your mushrooms will add a tasty depth to the tartlets!
Easy Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tartlets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tartlets:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 8 oz (about 225 g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 oz (about 115 g) goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delightful option for when unexpected guests drop by or when you simply crave something delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important to ensure your tartlets bake to golden perfection! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a muffin tin, depending on your choice of tartlet form.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re nice and browned. This brings out their flavor!
3. Add Garlic and Thyme:
Stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything smells delightful! Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry. Use a round cutter to cut out circles that are large enough to fit into your muffin tin cups or to make tartlet shells on your baking sheet (aim for about 4 inches in diameter).
5. Form Your Shells:
Place the pastry rounds into the muffin tin cups or onto your prepared baking sheet, pressing gently to form a shell shape, making sure the edges are raised.
6. Add Goat Cheese and Mushrooms:
Divide the crumbled goat cheese evenly among each pastry shell. Then, top with the sautéed mushroom mixture, ensuring you fill each tartlet generously!
7. Brush with Egg Wash (Optional):
If you want a beautiful golden finish, whisk up the egg and use it to lightly brush the edges of the pastry. This step is optional, but it’s worth it for that lovely color!
8. Bake the Tartlets:
Place your tartlets in the oven and bake for around 15-20 minutes. They should puff up beautifully and turn a lovely golden brown while the goat cheese gets slightly toasty.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take them out of the oven (carefully, they’ll be hot!). Let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with extra thyme sprigs. Serve them warm and enjoy as a delightful appetizer or snack!
These tasty tartlets are not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese adds a creamy tang, you can substitute it with feta for a more crumbly texture or ricotta for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly with each cheese!
How Do I Store Leftover Tartlets?
Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These Tartlets Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mushroom filling and pastry shells in advance. Assemble them just before baking if you want that fresh-out-of-the-oven effect. You can also freeze assembled tartlets for up to 2 months; bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
If you’re looking to enhance the flavor, try adding a bit of caramelized onions or sautéed spinach along with the mushrooms. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick if you like some heat!
