Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart Recipe

Introduction

This Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is a delightful blend of sweet roasted squash, savory caramelized onions, and creamy goat cheese baked into flaky puff pastry. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant appetizer, it combines rich flavors with simple, fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 medium butternut squashes (about 2 lbs), peeled and diced
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 cup goat cheese (or feta cheese for a tangier flavor)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Optional: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: Toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Step 3: While the squash roasts, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized.
4. Step 4: On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to fit your tart pan. Place the pastry in the pan and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
5. Step 5: Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the pastry base. Layer the roasted squash on top, then crumble the goat cheese over the vegetables. Drizzle with the heavy cream and sprinkle thyme evenly across the tart. Add red pepper flakes if using.
6. Step 6: Beat the egg and brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash to promote browning.
7. Step 7: Bake the tart for 25-30 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegan version, substitute goat cheese and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives.
• Adding fresh rosemary along with thyme can deepen the herbaceous flavor.
• Use feta cheese instead of goat cheese for a tangier taste.
• Roast the butternut squash a day ahead to save time on the day of baking.
• A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top adds a lovely crunch.

Storage

Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to keep the pastry crisp. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes, frozen puff pastry works well. Just thaw it according to package instructions before rolling it out.

Can I prepare this tart in advance?

You can assemble the tart and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 604 reviews

A savory and elegant tart featuring caramelized onions and roasted butternut squash layered over flaky puff pastry, topped with creamy goat cheese and fresh thyme. This easy-to-make tart combines sweet and earthy flavors, perfect for a cozy dinner or impressive appetizer.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Tart Base

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)

For the Filling

• 2 medium butternut squashes (about 2 lbs), peeled and diced
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 cup goat cheese (or feta cheese for a tangier flavor)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Optional: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the squash and baking the tart.
2. Prepare the Butternut Squash: Toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Caramelize the Onions: While the squash roasts, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft, sweet, and golden brown.
4. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to fit your tart pan or baking sheet. Transfer the pastry and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.
5. Assemble the Tart: Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the puff pastry. Layer the roasted butternut squash pieces on top of the onions. Crumble the goat cheese evenly over the squash, then drizzle the heavy cream across the tart. Sprinkle with fresh or dried thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using for added heat.
6. Brush with Egg Wash: Beat the egg and gently brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash to achieve a golden crust.
7. Bake the Tart: Place the assembled tart in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the puff pastry is golden and crisp, and the cheese is slightly melted.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• You can substitute goat cheese with feta for a tangier flavor.
• If you prefer a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cream alternative.
• Adding red pepper flakes gives the tart a nice subtle heat but is optional.
• Make sure to prick the puff pastry before baking to prevent it from puffing too much.
• Caramelizing onions low and slow enhances their natural sweetness.
• This tart pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.

Keywords: caramelized onion tart, butternut squash tart, puff pastry tart, vegetarian tart, savory tart, roasted squash, goat cheese tart