Savory Mushroom Tart with Crispy Bacon

Is there anything more comforting than a warm, savory tart? This Mushroom & Bacon Tart recipe delivers on all fronts: a flaky, buttery crust, a rich and earthy mushroom filling, and the salty, smoky goodness of bacon. The best part? We’re banishing soggy crusts forever with a simple, foolproof technique! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this elegant and delicious tart.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Mushroom Tart

This isn’t just another tart recipe; it’s a game-changer! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore this Savory Mushroom Tart:

• Crisp Crust, Guaranteed: No more soggy bottoms! Our blind-baking method ensures a perfectly golden and crisp crust that holds its shape.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of earthy mushrooms, smoky bacon, and nutty cheese creates a symphony of flavors in every bite.
• Impressive Yet Easy: While it looks fancy, this tart is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile Delight: Perfect for brunch, lunch, dinner, or even a sophisticated appetizer.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The crust can be made ahead of time, making this tart ideal for entertaining.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Savory Mushroom Tart

Before we dive into baking this delicious tart, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe is all about quality, so choosing fresh, flavorful components will truly make a difference. We’ll be creating a rich, savory experience with the interplay of earthy mushrooms, smoky bacon, and a perfectly balanced creamy filling.

First, let’s talk about the crust. A buttery, flaky crust is the foundation of this tart, and using high-quality all-purpose flour and cold butter is key to achieving that perfect texture. We’re also adding a touch of salt to balance the sweetness of the filling. The ice water is crucial for binding the dough without overworking it, which is what keeps the crust tender.

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For the savory filling, we’re bringing together a blend of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour: The base of our flaky, buttery crust.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the flavors of the crust and filling.
• 1/2 cup Cold Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes): Provides richness and flakiness to the crust. Make sure it’s very cold!
• 3 to 4 tablespoons Ice Water: Binds the dough together while keeping it tender. Add it gradually!
• 6 ounces Bacon (cut into lardons): Adds a smoky, savory depth to the filling. Crispy bacon is essential!
• 8 ounces Mixed Mushrooms (thinly sliced, like cremini and shiitake): Provides an earthy, umami flavor. Feel free to experiment with different mushroom varieties.
• 1 small Onion or Shallot (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and aroma to the filling.
• 2 Large Eggs: Binds the filling together and provides richness.
• 1 cup Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy, luxurious texture in the filling.
• 1/4 cup Grated Cheese (like Swiss or Gruyere): Adds a nutty, savory flavor and helps to set the filling.
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Seasons the filling.
• 1/8 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice to the filling.
• Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds a pop of freshness and color.

Remember, fresh, high-quality ingredients are the secret to an amazing Savory Mushroom Tart. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different mushroom varieties or cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile!

Crafting Your Savory Mushroom Tart: Step-by-Step

Ready to transform these ingredients into a show-stopping tart? Don’t worry, I’ll guide you through each step. The key to a perfect savory mushroom tart is all in the technique, especially when it comes to that flaky, never-soggy crust. Let’s get started!

1. Make the Crust: Begin by whisking together the flour and salt in a large bowl. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed. Then, cut in the cold butter. The key here is to keep the butter cold, as this creates pockets of fat that will melt during baking, resulting in a flaky crust. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. Now, add the ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this will develop the gluten and make the crust tough. Flatten the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the gluten to relax, preventing the crust from shrinking during baking.
2. Blind Bake the Crust (The Anti-Soggy Secret!): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the crust bakes evenly. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into about a 1/8-inch thick circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Gently press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Trim any excess dough. Now, prick the bottom of the crust all over with a fork. This prevents the crust from puffing up during baking. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights, dried beans, or rice. Make sure the weights fill the pan right up to the edges of the crust. This is crucial for preventing the crust from slumping down. Bake for 15 minutes. Then, carefully remove the parchment paper and weights. Return the crust to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and set. This blind-baking process is the key to a crisp bottom crust!
3. Prepare the Filling: While the crust is baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving about a tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet. The bacon fat will add a delicious flavor to the mushrooms. Add the chopped onion or shallot to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they have released their liquid and are browned, about 8-10 minutes. Cooking the mushrooms until they are browned intensifies their flavor. Remove from heat.
4. Assemble and Bake: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. This creates the creamy base for the filling. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the bottom of the pre-baked tart crust. This creates a barrier that helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy. Distribute the cooked mushrooms and bacon evenly over the cheese. Carefully pour the egg and cream mixture over the fillings in the tart crust.
5. Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. The center should have only a slight jiggle.
6. Cool and Garnish: Let the tart cool slightly on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of freshness and color.

Tips for Perfect Savory Mushroom Tart Every Time

Want to elevate your Savory Mushroom Tart to the next level? Here are some insider tips to ensure a flawless result every time:

• Keep it Cold: The key to a flaky crust is cold butter. Use very cold butter and ice water when making the dough.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten, resulting in a tough crust. Mix just until the dough comes together.
• Blind Bake is a Must: Don’t skip the blind-baking step! It’s crucial for preventing a soggy crust.
• Use a Tart Pan with a Removable Bottom: This makes it easy to remove the tart from the pan without damaging it.
• Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Parmesan.
• Make it Ahead: The crust can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
• Storage: Store leftover tart in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Add Some Extra Flavor

For those who enjoy a bit more complexity, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture or a drizzle of truffle oil over the finished tart. These additions can enhance the earthy flavors and create a truly gourmet experience. For more ways to enhance your culinary experience, you might also want to check out recipes like creamy spiced potatoes for ideas to spice up your sides!

Your Savory Mushroom Tart Questions Answered (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of mushroom?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different mushroom varieties, such as portobello, oyster, or chanterelle. Each type of mushroom will add a unique flavor and texture to the tart. Using a mix of wild mushrooms can also elevate the dish.

Can I make this tart vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon. You can add other vegetables, such as spinach, asparagus, or roasted red peppers, to the filling to compensate for the missing bacon. Consider adding a touch of smoked paprika to the mushrooms to mimic the smoky flavor of the bacon.

How do I prevent the crust from sticking to the tart pan?

Make sure to grease the tart pan well with butter or cooking spray before adding the dough. You can also use a tart pan with a non-stick coating. The removable bottom also makes it easier to release the tart.

Can I freeze the finished tart?

Yes, you can freeze the finished tart. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.

My crust is shrinking during baking. What am I doing wrong?

Shrinkage usually happens when the gluten in the dough is overdeveloped. Be careful not to overmix the dough, and make sure to chill it for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. Also, make sure your oven is at the correct temperature. If you’re looking for a different pastry option, you can find more inspirations on our savory sausage and bread bake.

Enjoy Your Homemade Savory Mushroom Tart!

Congratulations! You’ve created a stunning and incredibly delicious Savory Mushroom Tart. This recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined with care and technique, can create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this tart is sure to impress. Now, go ahead and savor every bite of that flaky crust, savory filling, and perfect balance of flavors. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your tart turned out! And be sure to share this recipe with your friends and family – they’ll thank you for it!