Name: Mushroom Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French-inspired
Ingredients: 1 puff pastry dough, about 9-10 oz, defrosted but kept in the refrigerator; 4 oz (1/2 cup) log goat cheese, room temperature; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme; 1 tablespoon butter; 3 cups white button or crimini mushrooms, stems removed and sliced approximately ¼-inch thick; 1 shallot, thinly sliced; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon pepper; 1 egg for egg wash; 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 186 reviews

If you are looking for a dish that perfectly balances rustic charm with elegant flavors, this Mushroom Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Whether you’re hosting brunch, need a stunning appetizer, or want a simple yet sophisticated dinner, this tart delivers all the savory satisfaction with minimal fuss. The buttery puff pastry provides a crisp, flaky foundation, while the creamy goat cheese adds tangy richness that complements the earthy mushrooms sautéed with garlic and thyme. It’s an impressive dish that comes together quickly and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, making it a true crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black frying pan filled with cooked sliced mushrooms and onions. The mushrooms are light brown with some darker brown edges, showing a tender and slightly browned texture. The onions are translucent with a soft white and light golden color, mixed evenly among the mushrooms. The pan handle is visible on the right side, and the whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients list is short yet thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the creamy goat cheese that brings tang, to the fresh thyme that elevates the mushroom’s earthy notes.

Puff pastry dough: Provides a flaky, golden crust that is the perfect canvas for the toppings.
Goat cheese: Adds a smooth, tangy creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the mushrooms.
Olive oil: Infuses the goat cheese mixture with richness and helps mellow the garlic.
Garlic: Minced finely to impart a gentle aromatic punch that melds seamlessly with the cheese.
Fresh thyme: Brings a subtle herbaceous note that brightens the earthy mushrooms.
Butter: Used to sauté mushrooms, enriching their flavor and adding a luscious mouthfeel.
Mushrooms: White button or crimini mushrooms offer a meaty texture and deep umami taste.
Shallot: Thinly sliced to lend sweetness and complexity during the sautéing process.
Salt and pepper: Seasonings essential for enhancing natural flavors without overpowering.
Egg: Whisked for the egg wash that gives the tart’s edges their inviting golden sheen.

How to Make Mushroom Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Having the oven ready before you assemble the tart makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Make the Goat Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine the goat cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped fresh thyme. This blend should be creamy and fragrant, setting the stage for the mushrooms that will come next. If your goat cheese feels too firm, soften it a little at room temperature first for easy spreading.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Shallot

In a large pan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and thinly sliced shallot. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan so that the mushrooms cook evenly and their moisture evaporates properly. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about five minutes, flipping halfway through, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and it mostly evaporates, leaving a beautifully sautéed mixture. Transfer to a plate to cool slightly so it doesn’t break your pastry.

Step 4: Roll Out and Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll the puff pastry dough into a 10 by 15-inch rectangle. Trim the edges if needed to make straight lines for a neat look. Place the rolled pastry onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, score a one-inch border all around the edge—think of it as creating a picture frame. Be careful not to cut all the way through the dough. Next, prick the center with a fork to prevent excessive puffing while baking.

Step 5: Assemble the Tart

Spread the goat cheese mixture evenly inside the bordered area of the pastry. If it is tricky to spread, drop little spoonfuls and gently smooth out with the back of a spoon. Then, layer the mushroom and shallot mixture on top, distributing it evenly for balanced bites in every forkful.

Step 6: Apply the Egg Wash and Bake

Whisk an egg with a tablespoon of water to make the egg wash. Use a pastry brush to carefully brush the edges of the tart—this will give you that gorgeous golden color and lovely shine once baked. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes until the puff pastry is crisp and the topping looks invitingly cooked through.

How to Serve Mushroom Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a slice of tart on parchment paper, with two other slices partly visible. The tart has a golden, flaky puff pastry crust that frames the topping. The topping consists of a creamy, white cheese layer spread evenly on the pastry, covered by a layer of sautéed, dark brown mushrooms with a soft texture. On top of the mushrooms, there are small green fresh herb sprigs placed as decoration. The background is a white marbled surface. The lighting is soft and warm, highlighting the glossy, cooked mushrooms and the golden crust, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like thyme or flat-leaf parsley scattered over the tart right before serving add a burst of color and an herbal lift that complements the savory filling. A light drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This tart pairs wonderfully with simple green salads dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. For a heartier option, roasted vegetables or even a bowl of seasonal soup can turn this tart into a filling and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the tart into bite-sized squares for a charming appetizer spread at parties, or serve larger slices with a dollop of crème fraîche and a sprinkle of toasted walnuts for an elegant dinner plate. Adding a small side of pickled onions can provide a pleasant contrast in flavors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mushroom Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the tart chilled preserves the delicate flavors and prevents the puff pastry from becoming soggy.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the tart wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the texture of the puff pastry and freshness of the topping.

Reheating

Reheat the tart in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust chewy and soft rather than crisp and flaky.

FAQs

Can I use any type of mushrooms in this tart?

Yes, you can substitute white button mushrooms with cremini, shiitake, or even a wild mushroom mix for extra flavor depth. Just make sure to slice them evenly so they cook uniformly.

Is it possible to make this tart vegan?

You can create a vegan version by using plant-based puff pastry and replacing the goat cheese with a cashew-based vegan cheese or a tofu spread seasoned with garlic and herbs.

What can I do if I don’t have fresh thyme?

Dried thyme works as well, but use about one-third of the fresh amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh rosemary or oregano can be interesting substitutes depending on your taste preferences.

How can I make the tart more visually appealing?

Try arranging the mushrooms on top in a decorative pattern or sprinkle toasted pine nuts or seeds before baking for added texture and a nutty finish. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt right out of the oven can also enhance presentation and flavor.

Can this tart be served cold or at room temperature?

Absolutely! The flavors may even develop more after sitting for a bit, making it a great make-ahead dish for picnics or buffets. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Mushroom Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe is a delightful combination of simple ingredients coming together in a way that feels both decadent and comforting. It’s a dish that invites you to savor every bite, whether you’re enjoying a quiet meal or impressing guests. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again for any occasion that calls for something truly special.