Mushroom Tartlets with Thyme Cream

Name: Mushroom Tartlets with Thyme Cream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 package of puff pastry, thawed; 2 cups of mushrooms, finely chopped; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1 cup of heavy cream; 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves; 1 teaspoon of lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites

Delight in these savory Mushroom Tartlets topped with a creamy thyme sauce, perfect for appetizers or a light meal.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-12T18:31:15.964Z

These Mushroom Tartlets with Thyme Cream are a delightful combination of earthy mushrooms and aromatic thyme, encased in a flaky pastry shell. Perfect as a starter or a light meal, they are sure to impress your guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, earthy flavor of mushrooms
Creamy thyme sauce adds a fragrant touch
Elegant presentation for any occasion
Easy to prepare yet impressive

      

The Perfect Appetizer

These Mushroom Tartlets with Thyme Cream make for an exquisite appetizer that will surely impress your guests. The combination of flaky puff pastry and a rich mushroom filling creates a delightful texture that's both light and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy dinner, these tartlets offer a touch of elegance to any occasion.

What's more, these tartlets can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving. This allows you to enjoy more time with your guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Simply prepare the filling and the pastry, then assemble them when you're ready to bake. It's a fantastic way to manage your time during entertaining.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of these tartlets is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms such as shiitake, cremini, or even wild mushrooms for a more gourmet touch. Each variety will impart its unique flavor, making the dish your own.

You can also add other ingredients to the filling, such as cooked spinach, goat cheese, or even a hint of truffle oil. These additions can elevate the flavor profile and create a mushroom tartlet that’s uniquely yours. The creamy thyme sauce pairs beautifully with these variations, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement your Mushroom Tartlets, consider serving a light salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of greens will balance the richness of the tartlets and create a well-rounded meal. A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing works wonderfully.

For wine pairings, a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir can enhance the flavors of the dish. Both options bring out the earthiness of the mushrooms while allowing the creamy thyme sauce to shine through. Enjoying these tartlets with the right drink can elevate your dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Tartlets

1 package of puff pastry, thawed
2 cups of mushrooms, finely chopped
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Thyme Cream

1 cup of heavy cream
1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon of lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste

Make sure to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking for a seamless experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into rounds to fit your tartlet pans. Press the pastry into the pans and prick the bottoms with a fork.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sauté until translucent. Add the chopped mushrooms, season with salt and pepper, and cook until softened. Remove from heat.

Make the Thyme Cream

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat. Stir in the fresh thyme and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes, then remove from heat.

Assemble and Bake

Fill each pastry shell with the mushroom mixture, then drizzle the thyme cream over the top. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the tartlets cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftover Mushroom Tartlets, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness, it’s best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the pastry is crispy again.

These tartlets also freeze well. To freeze, assemble the tartlets but don’t bake them. Instead, place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Nutritional Information

Each Mushroom Tartlet provides a delightful mix of flavors and nutrients. Packed with vitamins and minerals from the mushrooms, they offer a healthy dose of antioxidants. The heavy cream does add richness, so be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your dietary intake.

To lighten the recipe, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or substituting Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. This can reduce the calorie count while still providing that creamy texture.

Overall, these tartlets can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation, making them a delicious treat that doesn’t have to come with guilt.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the tartlets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and pastry shells in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving.

→ What type of mushrooms work best for this recipe?

Button mushrooms, cremini, or a mix of wild mushrooms work beautifully.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy substitute, but it may alter the richness of the sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.