Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart Recipe
This Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with rich caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese, all nestled in a flaky puff pastry crust. A perfect savory tart for fall gatherings or a delightful vegetarian main dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 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)
- Optional: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat
Dairy
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for roasting the squash and baking the tart.
- Prepare the Butternut Squash: Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well coated. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- Caramelize the Onions: While the squash roasts, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and sweetly caramelized.
- Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to fit your tart pan or baking dish. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.
- Assemble the Tart: Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the puff pastry base. Layer the roasted butternut squash on top. Crumble goat cheese over the squash, then drizzle with heavy cream. Sprinkle fresh thyme evenly across the tart. Add red pepper flakes if using for a touch of heat.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash to achieve a golden crust when baked.
- Bake the Tart: Place the assembled tart in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and the cheese is slightly browned and melted.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute feta for goat cheese to add a tangier flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cream alternative and omit the egg wash or use plant-based milk for brushing pastry.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat.
- Make sure to peel and seed the butternut squash well for the best texture.
- Caramelizing onions slowly is key to achieving their rich sweetness.
