Savory Mushroom and Onion Tartlets

Savory Mushroom and Onion Tartlets are flaky, buttery mini tarts filled with caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, herbs, and a creamy, cheesy custard. These elegant little bites combine rustic flavors with refined presentation — the perfect mix of earthy, sweet, and savory.

Whether served as appetizers, snacks, or part of a brunch spread, these tartlets are guaranteed to impress your guests with their delicate appearance and rich flavor.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s simple yet sophisticated. The combination of caramelized onions and mushrooms creates a deep umami flavor that pairs perfectly with buttery pastry.

Each bite is indulgent but not heavy — crispy shell on the outside, creamy savory filling on the inside. It’s the kind of dish that looks like it took hours but is actually easy to make!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s:

• Elegant yet easy: Looks gourmet but uses simple ingredients.
• Perfect for any occasion: Great for brunch, dinner parties, or festive gatherings.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare and bake them ahead, then reheat before serving.
• Flavor-packed: The umami of mushrooms, sweetness of onions, and creamy filling balance beautifully.
• Vegetarian-friendly: Satisfying even for non-meat eaters.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 12 tartlets (serves 4–6 people)
• Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per tartlet

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: French-inspired / European
• Course: Appetizer | Snack | Brunch | Party Food

Ingredients

For the Tartlet Shell:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen) or shortcrust pastry
• A little flour (for dusting)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

For the Mushroom-Onion Filling:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 200 g (about 2 cups) mushrooms (button, cremini, or mixed), finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp thyme or Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup heavy cream (or milk)
• ¼ cup grated cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella)
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Sauté onions until caramelized.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, and herbs — cook until soft.
3. Stir in cream, cheese, and egg to form a creamy filling.
4. Cut puff pastry into rounds and place in mini tart molds.
5. Fill each with the mushroom mixture.
6. Bake until golden and puffed.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry slightly on a floured surface.
3. Cut into 3-inch circles (use a cookie cutter or glass).
4. Press each circle gently into a greased mini tart or muffin pan.
5. Brush edges with egg wash for shine.

Step 2: Cook the Onions and Mushrooms

1. In a skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring often until golden and caramelized.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chopped mushrooms, salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Cook until the mushrooms release moisture and it evaporates (about 5–7 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a bowl, combine the cooked mushroom-onion mix with cream, cheese, and beaten egg.
2. Mix well until the filling looks creamy and cohesive.

Step 4: Assemble the Tartlets

1. Spoon the filling evenly into each prepared pastry shell.
2. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese on top for a golden crust.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake the tartlets in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
2. Let cool for 5 minutes before removing from the pan.

Step 6: Serve

• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
• Serve warm as an appetizer, or let them cool to room temperature for buffet-style serving.

How to Serve

• Serve these tartlets warm as a starter with a light green salad or soup.
• Pair with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a classy touch.
• Ideal for tea parties, brunch tables, or holiday buffets.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t skip caramelizing the onions: It’s key to the flavor depth.
• Use cold pastry for best flakiness.
• You can make the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it until ready to assemble.
• For a richer flavor, add a touch of balsamic glaze while sautéing onions.
• Sprinkle Parmesan before baking for a beautiful crust.

Recipe Variations

1. Cheesy Spinach Tartlets: Replace mushrooms with sautéed spinach and feta.
2. Goat Cheese & Herb Tartlets: Add crumbled goat cheese and fresh thyme.
3. Bacon-Mushroom Tartlets: Stir in crispy bacon bits for a smoky version.
4. Mini Quiche Style: Mix the filling with a bit more cream and egg for a custardy bite.
5. Vegan Option: Use vegan puff pastry, plant cream, and dairy-free cheese.

Freezing and Storage

• To Refrigerate: Store cooled tartlets in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
• To Freeze (Before Baking): Freeze filled but unbaked tartlets on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Keeps for 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
• To Freeze (After Baking): Freeze fully baked tartlets for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen until hot and crisp.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mini tart pans or muffin tin
• Rolling pin
• Skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Oven and baking tray

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use store-bought pastry?
Yes! Ready-made puff or shortcrust pastry works perfectly for convenience.

Q2: Can I make these tartlets ahead of time?
Definitely. You can make and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance or freeze for later.

Q3: What kind of mushrooms work best?
Button, cremini, or portobello mushrooms are all great choices. For a gourmet touch, add a few shiitake or oyster mushrooms.

Q4: Can I serve them cold?
They taste best warm or at room temperature, but they can also be served cold as part of a picnic or buffet.

Q5: Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, though cream gives a richer texture. Milk works fine for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Savory Mushroom and Onion Tartlets are the definition of comfort and elegance combined. Their flaky crust, creamy filling, and balanced flavors make them ideal for both casual and special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, planning a brunch, or just want a delicious snack with your evening tea, these tartlets are sure to impress. Easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable — this is a must-try recipe for every home cook who loves a touch of sophistication on their table.