Filled Tartlets
Delightful filled tartlets combine creamy cheese, tender crabmeat, and savory bacon in crisp shells, offering a sophisticated appetizer perfect for entertaining. Their rich flavors and elegant presentation make them an ideal choice for brunches, parties, or special occasions that impress guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the milk and then remove from heat to let cool.
- Stir in the beaten eggs, grated Swiss cheese, nutmeg, salt, and white pepper.
- Divide the mixture evenly into two bowls.
- Add crumbled bacon to one mixture and shredded crabmeat to the other.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Arrange the tartlet shells on a greased baking sheet.
- Fill 14 shells with the bacon mixture and 14 with the crabmeat mixture.
- Bake for 15 minutes until golden and heated through.
- Serve the tartlets warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using Gruyère cheese instead of Swiss. You can also replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. If you're short on time, pre-made tartlet shells can be a convenient substitute. Make sure to cool the milk slightly before adding the eggs to prevent curdling.
Serving Suggestions
These filled tartlets are perfect as appetizers or can be served alongside a fresh salad, such as Broccoli Rice Salad, for a light lunch or dinner. Pair them with a crisp white wine for a delightful complement to the flavors. They also make excellent finger foods for parties.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Filled Tartlets contains roughly 91 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the tartlet filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and fill your tartlet shells just before baking to ensure they remain crisp. This is especially convenient if you're planning for a gathering.
What can I use instead of crabmeat?
If you're looking for a substitute for crabmeat, cooked shrimp or imitation crab can work well. You could also use a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian option that still offers great flavor.
How do I know when the tartlets are done baking?
The tartlets are done when they are golden brown on top and firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they are ready to serve. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).