Description
Vol-au-vent with creamy mushroom filling is a classic French-inspired appetizer or light entrée featuring golden, flaky puff pastry shells filled with a rich, savory mushroom cream sauce. Elegant yet easy to prepare, these are perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry Shells
- 1 package (about 1 lb) frozen puff pastry sheets (thawed)
Filling
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small shallot (finely chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 12 oz mushrooms (cremini, white, or mixed – sliced)
- ¼ cup dry white wine (or vegetable broth)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or mascarpone
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Puff Pastry Shells: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Unfold the puff pastry sheets and cut out circles using a 3-inch cutter, then cut smaller circles from the center of half the discs to create rings. Stack one ring on top of each solid disc, pressing lightly to seal. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12–15 minutes or until puffed and golden. Cool slightly and use a knife to gently press down the centers to form a well.
- Cook Filling: Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shallot and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking for 8–10 minutes until mushrooms are soft and any liquid has evaporated.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Deglaze the skillet with white wine and simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Cream and Seasoning: Stir in heavy cream, cream cheese or mascarpone, thyme, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Continue simmering until the mixture thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the creamy mushroom filling into the puff pastry shells, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can prepare the filling in advance and reheat before serving.
- Add cooked chicken or sautéed spinach for a heartier version.
- Use plant-based cream and pastry for a vegan-friendly alternative.