Wild Mushroom Tart

Wild Mushroom Tart is a rustic, savory dish that highlights the deep, earthy flavor of assorted wild mushrooms nestled in a buttery, golden puff pastry base. Enhanced with creamy cheese, herbs, and aromatic garlic or shallots, this elegant tart is a standout option for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. It’s as visually stunning as it is satisfying, and surprisingly easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tart delivers rich umami flavor from sautéed wild mushrooms balanced by creamy cheese and a flaky puff pastry crust. It’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, a vegetarian main course, or a side dish. Plus, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, and the final result is a dish that feels both elevated and comforting. It’s perfect for mushroom lovers and impresses with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Puff pastry sheet, thawed
• Mixed wild mushrooms (such as shiitake, oyster, cremini, chanterelles), cleaned and sliced
• Shallot or onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Olive oil or butter
• Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Goat cheese, ricotta, or crème fraîche (for creaminess)
• Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: grated parmesan for topping

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add shallots and cook until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Add mushrooms and sauté for 8–10 minutes until tender and browned. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Roll out the puff pastry and place it on the baking sheet. Score a 1-inch border around the edges and prick the center with a fork.
5. Spread goat cheese, ricotta, or crème fraîche over the center of the pastry.
6. Spoon the mushroom mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
7. Fold in the pastry edges slightly and brush with egg wash.
8. Sprinkle grated parmesan on top if using.
9. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the crust is golden and crisp.
10. Cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Caramelized onions: Add a layer of sweet caramelized onions beneath the mushrooms.
• Add greens: Sauté spinach or kale and mix with mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
• Cheese swap: Try gruyère, fontina, or blue cheese instead of goat cheese.
• Truffle flavor: Add a drizzle of truffle oil after baking for a luxurious finish.
• Mini tartlets: Cut the pastry into small squares and make bite-sized tarts for appetizers.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the pastry.

FAQs

What kind of mushrooms should I use?

Use a mix of wild mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, chanterelle, and cremini for the best flavor and texture.

Can I use regular white mushrooms?

Yes, though wild or specialty mushrooms will offer more depth of flavor.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mushroom topping in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for best texture.

Is this tart vegetarian?

Yes, this version is vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure your cheese is made with vegetarian rennet if needed.

Can I freeze the tart?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it after baking and reheat in the oven. The texture may soften slightly.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Goat cheese or ricotta offers a creamy base that pairs well with mushrooms, but gruyère or parmesan also work beautifully.

Can I add eggs to make it more filling?

Yes, whisked eggs and cream can be poured over the tart to turn it into a quiche-style bake.

What pairs well with this tart?

Serve with a simple arugula salad, a bowl of soup, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use shortcrust pastry?

Yes, but puff pastry gives a flakier, lighter texture that complements the mushrooms well.

Do I need to pre-bake the crust?

No, pre-baking isn’t necessary if you score the border and prick the center—just be sure to bake until fully golden.

Conclusion

Wild Mushroom Tart is a sophisticated yet simple dish that brings out the best in earthy, aromatic mushrooms. With a crisp puff pastry base and creamy, savory filling, it’s perfect for any occasion—from brunches to dinner parties. Beautiful, flavorful, and satisfying, this tart is a guaranteed favorite for anyone who loves rich, plant-based comfort food.

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