appetizer
Savory Mushroom Puff Pastry Tart
A buttery, golden puff pastry tart topped with a rich mixture of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are cooked down to bring out their deep, savory flavor, layered over a creamy base like crème fraîche or cheese, and finished with a sprinkle of melted Gruyère or Parmesan. Light, elegant, and satisfying, this tart makes a perfect appetizer, light lunch, or side dish—impressive enough for guests, yet simple enough for a cozy meal at home. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (store-bought is fine)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small shallot or 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced (mix of cremini, shiitake, button, or wild)
- 1 teaspoon thyme leaves (fresh or dried)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons crème fraîche, sour cream, or softened cream cheese (optional base layer)
- 1/4 cup grated Gruyère, fontina, or Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat and prepare puff pastry
Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unfold 1 sheet of thawed puff pastry and place it on the tray. Lightly score a 1/2-inch border around the edges without cutting through. Prick the center with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
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Cook the mushrooms
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small finely chopped shallot (or 1/2 onion) and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (a mix of cremini, shiitake, button, or wild). Season with 1 teaspoon thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper to taste. Cook 6–8 minutes until mushrooms are golden and most of their moisture has evaporated. Let cool slightly before assembling.
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Assemble the tart
If desired, spread 2 tablespoons crème fraîche, sour cream, or softened cream cheese within the scored border of the puff pastry. Spoon the cooled mushroom mixture evenly over the center, then sprinkle with about 1/4 cup grated Gruyère, fontina, or Parmesan cheese if using.
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Bake
Brush the outer 1/2-inch border of the puff pastry with 1 beaten egg for shine. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are puffed and golden brown.
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Serve
Remove the tart from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or chives before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Mix different mushroom varieties for depth of flavor.
- For extra richness, add a drizzle of truffle oil before serving.
- The tart can be sliced into squares or strips for easy appetizers.