Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart

Hey y'all! If you're searching for a show-stopping savory tart that's rich in flavor and perfect for any occasion, this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart has got you covered. With its buttery, flaky crust, creamy roasted Butternut Squash, and jammy sweet caramelized onions, every bite brings comfort and satisfaction. Whether you're planning a cozy brunch, a festive holiday table, or a hearty weeknight dinner, this tart will steal the spotlight. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This

• Combines sweet caramelized onions and roasted squash for a perfect flavor harmony.
• Impressive presentation makes it ideal for gatherings and special occasions.
• Can be served warm or at room temperature, adding flexibility to your meal planning.
• Vegetarian-friendly yet filling enough for any appetite.
• Simple ingredients—easily sourced, yet deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 2 cups Butternut Squash, peeled and diced (about ½-inch cubes)
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• ½ teaspoon salt, divided
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: 2 tablespoons crumbled feta or goat cheese, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread the diced butternut squash on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon salt and a pinch of pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until squash is golden and fork-tender. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. While the squash roasts, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced onions and ¼ teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring often, for 25-30 minutes until deep golden brown and jammy. (Turn heat down if they brown too quickly!)
3. Stir in the thyme leaves in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Increase your oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment, if not already done.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to roughly 10x14 inches. Transfer to the baking sheet.
3. Lightly score a 1-inch border around the edges with a sharp knife (don’t cut all the way through!).
4. Prick the center of the pastry several times with a fork to prevent puffing.
5. Brush the border with the beaten egg.

Step 4: Assemble the Tart

1. Spread the ricotta cheese evenly within the inner rectangle of the pastry.
2. Top with caramelized onions, then layer on the roasted butternut squash.
3. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese (and optional feta or goat cheese) over the top.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden and crisp.
2. Cool slightly before slicing and serving. Garnish with extra thyme if desired.

Notes

• Caramelizing onions takes patience—don’t rush, or they’ll burn rather than develop their signature sweetness.
• For best results, cut the squash into evenly sized cubes for uniform roasting.
• If using fresh puff pastry, keep it chilled until ready to bake for maximum flakiness.

Variations

• Cheesy Upgrade: Swap ricotta with whipped goat cheese for a tangier, creamier base.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free puff pastry or make a gluten-free tart shell.
• Greens & Squash: Add a layer of sautéed spinach or kale for a pop of color and nutrition.

Required Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large skillet
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Storage Instructions

• Store leftover tart, tightly wrapped or in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness—avoid microwaving, which softens the crust.
• Freezing is not recommended as puff pastry may turn soggy once thawed.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

• Serve warm or at room temperature with a crisp green salad, lightly dressed with vinaigrette.
• Pair with a glass of dry white wine or sparkling apple cider for a festive touch.
• Perfect as a main for brunch, lunch, or a unique dinner side dish.

Pro Tips

• Score and dock the pastry to control puff—this helps create that beautiful crust border.
• For extra flavor, toss your butternut squash cubes with a pinch of smoked paprika before roasting.
• Let the tart cool slightly before slicing for cleaner, crisper edges.

FAQ

Can I prepare this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart in advance?

Absolutely! Assemble the tart up to 1 day ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving for best texture.

What other cheeses work well in this tart?

Fontina, Gruyère, or mozzarella are delicious alternatives to ricotta and Parmesan—experiment to suit your taste!

Can I use pre-cut or frozen butternut squash?

Yes, just thaw and drain well if using frozen, and ensure pieces are similar in size for even roasting.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

★★★★★ 4.40 from 43 ratings

Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart

yield: 6 servings

prep: 25 mins

cook: 45 mins

total: 50 mins

A savory and flavorful tart featuring sweet caramelized onions and roasted butternut squash baked in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect as a comforting vegetarian dinner or elegant appetizer.

🖨️ Print Pin Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• ¾ cup crumbled goat cheese
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2
   Toss diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender. Remove from oven and let cool.
3. 3
   Meanwhile, heat remaining olive oil over medium-low heat in a large skillet. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in fresh thyme and remove from heat.
4. 4
   Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Prick the pastry lightly with a fork.
5. 5
   Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with roasted butternut squash and sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top.
6. 6
   Fold the edges of the pastry slightly over the filling and brush the border with beaten egg. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO ↑

Approximate Information for One Serving

Serving Size: 1 serving

Calories: 320 caloriescal

Protein: 7gg

Fat: 18gg

Saturated Fat: 0g

Trans Fat: 0g

Cholesterol: 0mg

Sodium: 0mg

Potassium: 0mg

Total Carbs: 34gg

Fiber: 0g

Sugar: 0g

Net Carbs: 0g

Vitamin A: 0

Vitamin C: 0mg

Calcium: 0mg

Iron: 0mg

Nutrition Disclaimers

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

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