Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Caramelized Onion & Goat Cheese Tart brings together a blend of textures and flavors that make it a standout dish. The sweetness of the caramelized onions contrasts beautifully with the tanginess of the goat cheese, while the flaky puff pastry provides the perfect base. It’s simple enough to prepare but sophisticated enough to wow your guests at any gathering. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or a main course, this tart is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a versatile, comforting, and utterly delicious savory delight that balances elegance and ease.

Ingredients

1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
4 ounces goat cheese (crumbled)
1 large egg
1 tablespoon heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Stir frequently and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the onions are soft and golden brown. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the thyme.
Prepare the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Gently press it into the pan and trim any excess pastry from the edges. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the pastry to prevent puffing up during baking.
Assemble the Tart: Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the prepared puff pastry. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese on top.
Make the Egg Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and heavy cream. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, then pour it evenly over the assembled tart.
Bake the Tart: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the egg mixture is set.
Cool and Serve: Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Fresh rosemary, sage, or oregano could work well in place of thyme, giving the tart a unique flavor.
Cheese Options: While goat cheese is the star of this tart, you can swap it out with feta cheese, cream cheese, or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
Add Vegetables: For extra flavor, consider adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the tart along with the caramelized onions.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: The tart can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the tart in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also enjoy it at room temperature, as it retains its flavor and texture well.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought caramelized onions instead of making them myself?

Yes! Store-bought caramelized onions can be a time-saving option. Just be sure to use a high-quality version for the best flavor.

2. Can I freeze the tart?

Yes, you can freeze the tart before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I use a different type of pastry?

You can use shortcrust pastry or phyllo dough as alternatives, but puff pastry will give the tart its signature flaky and buttery texture.

4. Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tart ahead of time. Assemble it, refrigerate, and bake it just before serving. It’s best to bake it fresh for the best texture.

5. Can I make this tart gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free puff pastry for this recipe to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Ensure that all the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

6. Can I use a different type of onion?

While yellow onions are the classic choice for caramelizing, you can substitute them with red onions or sweet onions for a milder or sweeter taste.

7. Can I skip the balsamic glaze?

Yes, the balsamic glaze is optional, but it does add a nice touch of acidity to balance the richness of the tart. You can also drizzle a bit of honey for a sweeter contrast if you prefer.

8. Can I make the tart dairy-free?

To make this tart dairy-free, use a dairy-free puff pastry and substitute the goat cheese and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like dairy-free cheese and coconut cream.

9. How do I know when the tart is done?

The tart is done when the pastry is golden brown, and the egg mixture is fully set. You can gently press the center to check if it’s firm, or use a toothpick to test the filling.

Conclusion

The Caramelized Onion & Goat Cheese Tart is a versatile and delicious dish that combines sweet caramelized onions, tangy goat cheese, and a flaky pastry crust. Whether you’re preparing it for brunch, a light dinner, or a special occasion, this tart is sure to be a hit. With minimal prep and a stunning result, it’s the perfect recipe to impress your guests while enjoying the comforting flavors of home. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this tart is an elegant and satisfying choice that will leave everyone craving more.