Savory Tart Shells with Fillings

Homemade savory tart shells are the perfect base for creating a variety of appetizers and snacks, such as mini quiches, tarts, or bite-sized pizzas. These buttery, flaky shells are easy to prepare and provide endless possibilities for customization with fillings like vegetables, cheese, or meats. Whether for a party or a casual gathering, this recipe will help you impress your guests with delicious and visually appealing tarts.

Savory Tart Shells with Fillings

Ingredients:

For the Tart Shells:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 4-5 tbsp cold water

Suggested Fillings:

• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
• 1/4 cup diced vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach)
• Optional: cooked meat (e.g., diced sausage, bacon, or chicken)
• Salt, pepper, and herbs (e.g., parsley, thyme, or oregano) to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough for the Tart Shells:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Mix in the egg yolk and gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.

Shape the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Shape and Bake the Tart Shells:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.

Cut circles using a cookie cutter and press the circles into greased tart molds or muffin tins.

Poke the bottoms of the shells with a fork to prevent puffing. Line each shell with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.

Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Fillings:

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, salt, pepper, and herbs. Stir in the shredded cheese, vegetables, and any cooked meat.

Fill and Bake the Tarts:

Pour the filling mixture into the pre-baked tart shells, filling them about 3/4 full.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.

Serve:

Allow the tarts to cool slightly before removing them from the molds. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Conclusion:
Savory tart shells are a versatile and delightful addition to any meal or event. With a buttery crust and endless filling possibilities, they allow you to get creative and customize each tart to suit your taste. Whether you’re making them for a party or a cozy family dinner, these tarts are sure to impress with their flavor and presentation.

Tips:

1. Chill the Dough: Keeping the butter and dough cold ensures a flaky crust.
2. Make Ahead: Prepare and bake the tart shells in advance; store them in an airtight container and fill them when ready to serve.
3. Customize Fillings: Experiment with different combinations of cheeses, vegetables, and proteins to create unique flavors.
4. Add a Sweet Twist: Use the same tart shells for sweet fillings like custard, chocolate, or fruit for dessert options.
5. Freeze Extra Dough: If you have leftover dough, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to a month for future use.