Why You’ll Love Leek and Goats Cheese Tart Recipe
This tart is a beautiful blend of rich, creamy cheese and the mild, sweet flavor of leeks, all encased in a golden, crisp pastry shell. It’s both comforting and refined, making it a perfect centerpiece for a gathering or a luxurious treat for yourself. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this dish is versatile and always delicious. Plus, it can be made ahead, making it an excellent option for entertaining or meal prep.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Leeks
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Goat cheese (soft and creamy)
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Eggs
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Heavy cream or crème fraîche
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Puff pastry or shortcrust pastry
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Olive oil or butter
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Fresh thyme or other herbs (optional)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Roll out the pastry and line a tart tin, trimming the edges. Prick the base with a fork and chill for 10–15 minutes.
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Blind bake the pastry shell with baking weights or beans for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.
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While the crust bakes, clean and slice the leeks. Sauté them in olive oil or butter over medium heat until soft and lightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper.
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In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and cream. Stir in crumbled goat cheese and season lightly.
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Spread the cooked leeks evenly in the tart shell. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the top. Add herbs if using.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
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Let the tart cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 6–8 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
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Use caramelized onions instead of leeks for a deeper flavor.
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Swap goat cheese with feta or ricotta for a milder taste.
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Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
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Sprinkle pine nuts or walnuts on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
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Try adding a touch of honey to the goat cheese mix for a hint of sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for 30–60 seconds, though the crust will be softer.
FAQs
How do I clean leeks properly?
Slice the leeks in half lengthwise, then rinse thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or sand trapped between the layers.
Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and bake the tart up to a day in advance. Reheat gently in the oven before serving, or serve at room temperature.
Can I freeze the tart?
You can freeze the baked tart after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What type of goat cheese works best?
A soft, creamy goat cheese is ideal. Avoid hard or crumbly aged goat cheeses, as they may not melt well in the filling.
Can I use store-bought pastry?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry or shortcrust pastry works perfectly and saves time.
What can I serve with this tart?
It pairs wonderfully with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free pastry base or crust alternative. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free.
What herbs pair well with leeks and goat cheese?
Fresh thyme, chives, or tarragon all work well. You can also use dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available.
Is this tart suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this tart is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat or fish.
How can I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
Blind baking the crust helps a lot. Also, make sure your filling ingredients (especially the leeks) aren’t too wet when added.
Conclusion
The Leek and Goats Cheese Tart is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it for a casual meal, this tart delivers comfort, flavor, and a touch of sophistication every time.
