As I flipped through my favorite cookbook, an enticing aroma wafted through the air, enticing me to create something truly special. Enter the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart—a delightful dish bursting with autumn flavors. This savory tart combines the creamy richness of ricotta and the earthy sweetness of caramelized onions, all elevated by the crispy texture of bacon and aromatic sage. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings and can be whipped up quickly with flaky puff pastry, making it an impressive yet approachable choice for home cooks at any skill level. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the season’s bounty without resorting to fast food. What flavors will you discover as you indulge in this comforting tart? Why is this tart a must-try? Autumn Flavors: This Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart brings the essence of fall right to your table, celebrating seasonal ingredients in every bite. Effortless Elegance: With simple prep, this tart transforms into a stunning centerpiece for gatherings, impressing guests without keeping you in the kitchen all day. Flavor Harmony: The melding of creamy ricotta, sweet caramelized onions, and salty bacon creates a delightful taste experience that’s irresistible. Versatile Delight: Pair this savory tart with a light salad or your favorite soup, like butternut squash bisque, for a comforting meal. Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it a day in advance allowing for stress-free entertaining, ensuring you can enjoy the company of friends and family. Indulge in this flavor-packed dish and enjoy the cozy vibes it brings—your taste buds deserve it! Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart Ingredients For the Tart Base Puff Pastry – Provides a light, flaky base that puffs beautifully; ensure it’s fully thawed before use. For the Filling Pumpkin Puree – Acts as a rich canvas for the tart, offering natural sweetness and vibrant color; fresh roasted pumpkin is a great substitute. Ricotta Cheese – Delivers a creamy texture balancing sweetness and savory notes; cottage cheese or Greek yogurt can work for lighter variations. Onion – Adds depth and sweetness when caramelized; slice thinly for even cooking. Bacon – Provides a crisp, smoky flavor that contrasts with the creaminess; cook until crispy and drain excess fat for best texture. Fresh Sage Leaves – Imparts aromatic freshness; brushing with butter enhances their flavor. For Cooking Olive Oil & Butter – Used for sautéing onions and brushing sage for added richness. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences. Egg (for wash) – Gives the pastry a glossy, appetizing finish post-baking. With these ingredients, your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart will be rich, savory, and bursting with autumn flavors, perfect for any gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure a non-stick surface for your flaky puff pastry, which will puff up beautifully during baking. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients to have everything ready for assembly. Step 2: Caramelize the Onion In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil along with a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and sauté for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are deeply golden and fragrant. This step enhances the sweetness of the onions, a key component of your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart. Step 3: Cook the Bacon In the same skillet, add chopped bacon pieces and cook over medium heat until crispy, approximately 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the excess fat on paper towels to maintain a crisp texture. The savory, smoky flavor of the bacon will balance the sweetness of the tart beautifully. Step 4: Roll Out the Pastry On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry until it’s large enough to fit your prepared baking sheet. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch to achieve that perfect flaky texture. Gently transfer the pastry to the baking sheet, allowing it to relax while you prepare the filling. Step 5: Mix the Filling In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and ricotta cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture until smooth and creamy, ensuring a delightful balance of flavors. This rich filling is the heart of your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart, promising the warmth of autumn in each bite. Step 6: Assemble the Tart Spread the creamy pumpkin-ricotta mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges for the crust. This will create a lovely frame for your tart and ensure it bakes evenly. The vibrant colors will make this tart not only delicious but visually appealing. Step 7: Add Toppings Evenly distribute the caramelized onions over the pumpkin mixture, followed by the crispy bacon pieces. Each bite will be a wonderful mix of textures and flavors, bringing your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart to life. Be generous with the toppings for the best taste experience! Step 8: Prepare the Sage Brush the fresh sage leaves with melted butter and scatter them over the tart. The sage adds an aromatic touch that complements the other ingredients beautifully. This aromatic herb is essential for lifting the entire flavor profile of your tart, making it a seasonal highlight. Step 9: Form the Crust Gently fold the edges of the puff pastry inward, pinching them to create a rustic border around the tart. For a glossy finish, brush the edges with a beaten egg. This step ensures that the pastry gets a lovely golden-brown color, enhancing the overall presentation of your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart. Step 10: Bake the Tart Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it towards the end; the beautiful aroma will signal that it’s almost ready. The perfect bake will make your tart irresistibly inviting. Step 11: Cool & Slice Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to slice. Then, use a sharp knife to cut the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart into wedges that are perfect for serving at your autumn gathering. Make Ahead Options The Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling (pumpkin-ricotta mix, caramelized onions, and cooked bacon) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can roll out the puff pastry and place it on the baking sheet a day ahead without compromising quality by covering it with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the tart with the prepped ingredients, brush with sage, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. This way, you’ll enjoy that cozy, homemade flavor with minimal effort during mealtime! What to Serve with Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart? Imagine turning a cozy gathering into a delightful culinary experience, where every bite is complemented by the perfect side dishes. Arugula Salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, this refreshing salad balances the tart’s richness with a peppery crunch. Butternut Squash Soup: A warm, comforting soup that echoes the autumn flavors, creating a harmonious blend with each bite of the tart. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection, their nutty flavor and crispy texture contrast beautifully with the creamy tart, adding a satisfying crunch. Red Wine: A glass of Pinot Noir brings out the savory notes of the bacon and enhances the sweetness of the pumpkin, creating an elegant pairing. Homemade Applesauce: A sweet-tart applesauce offers a wonderful contrast, its freshness cutting through the richness of your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart. Herbed Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses with fresh herbs adds variety and sophistication to your meal, inviting guests to explore various flavors. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, soft breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the creamy filling left from the tart, creating a delightful savored moment. Pumpkin Spiced Latte: For a cozy beverage to round off your meal, a cup of pumpkin spiced latte enhances the flavors and makes it feel like fall in a cup. Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart Variations Feel free to make this savory tart your own by exploring different flavor and ingredient combinations! Cheese Swap: Replace ricotta with cottage cheese or goat cheese for a distinct twist. Each substitute brings a unique creaminess that enhances the tart. Herb Infusion: Try adding other herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. These herbs can elevate the flavor profile, giving it more depth. Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers into the filling. These additions not only add nutrition but also a delightful texture and visual appeal. Sweet Twist: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the finished tart for a sweet-savory contrast. This unexpected flavor pop can elevate the dish. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving. The added crunch will complement the tart’s creamy filling beautifully. Spice It Up: For some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the pumpkin-ricotta mixture. This will bring a fun, spicy note that balances the sweetness of the caramelized onions. Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free puff pastry option available in stores if you’re looking for gluten-free alternatives. This way, everyone can enjoy this cozy tart! Serving Suggestions: Serve with a light arugula salad, or why not pair it with some Scramble Breakfast Tacos for a comforting meal? Let these variations inspire you to create your own cherished version of the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart! Storage Tips for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Ensure the tart has cooled completely to maintain its texture and flavors. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months. This retains the delicious flavors of the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart. Reheating: To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the tart for about 8-10 minutes. This will restore the crispiness of the pastry while keeping the filling creamy. Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, the tart can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving, making it easy to enjoy while mingling. Expert Tips for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart Avoid Soggy Crust: Ensure your filling isn’t watery by draining any excess moisture from the pumpkin puree and caramelized onions. Blind Bake: Consider pre-baking the puff pastry for 5-7 minutes. This helps create a sturdy base, preventing sogginess in your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to maximize flavor—especially for the sage and cheese. Fresh herbs enhance aroma and taste beautifully. Proper Bacon Cooking: Cook bacon until it’s crispy, draining excess fat completely. This prevents a greasy texture that could detract from your tart’s overall appeal. Chill Before Baking: If possible, chill the assembled tart in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before baking. This helps the pastry maintain its shape and achieve that perfect flaky texture. Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pumpkin for this tart? Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin, look for small, sugar pumpkins or “pie pumpkins” as they have a sweeter flesh that’s perfect for baking. Avoid large carving pumpkins; they can be stringy and watery. The skin should be firm and unblemished. If using canned pumpkin puree, ensure it’s 100% pumpkin with no added sugars or spices for the best flavor. How should I store leftovers of the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart? Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure the tart has completely cooled before sealing it. To keep it fresh and delicious, consider reheating individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, which will restore the puff pastry’s flakiness. Can I freeze the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place the entire tart in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring that it stays delicious and flakey. What if my filling is too watery, causing a soggy crust? Great concern! To prevent this, make sure to drain excess moisture from the pumpkin puree and the caramelized onions. You can also sprinkle a light layer of breadcrumbs or grated cheese on the puff pastry before adding the filling; this step will absorb some moisture and help keep the crust from becoming soggy. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Certainly! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can adapt this recipe. For vegetarian options, simply omit the bacon and add more veggies, like spinach or mushrooms, for added flavor. If lactose is a concern, consider using lactose-free ricotta or a nut-based cheese as a substitute. Always encourage guests to check ingredients if allergies are a concern, especially for the puff pastry. How can I enhance the flavors of my tart? Very easily! You can enhance the flavors by adding spices such as nutmeg or cinnamon to the pumpkin-ricotta mixture for a warm kick. Fresh herbs like thyme can also complement the sage beautifully. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings in your filling to suit your palate. Remember, cooking should be as much about personal taste as it is about following a recipe! Savory Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart Bliss Delight in the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart—a savory dish that celebrates autumn flavors with creamy ricotta, sweet caramelized onions, and crispy bacon. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Tart Base1 sheet Puff Pastry Ensure it's fully thawed before use.For the Filling1 cup Pumpkin Puree Fresh roasted pumpkin is a great substitute.1 cup Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese or Greek yogurt can be used for lighter variations.1 medium Onion Slice thinly for even cooking.4 slices Bacon Cook until crispy and drain excess fat.5 leaves Fresh Sage Leaves Brushing with butter enhances flavor.For Cooking1 tablespoon Olive Oil Used for sautéing onions.1 tablespoon Butter Used for sautéing onions.to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning.1 egg Egg (for wash) Gives the pastry a glossy finish. Equipment SkilletBaking SheetParchment paperMixing bowlRolling PinSharp knife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.In a large skillet, heat olive oil with butter over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and sauté for 15-20 minutes until golden.In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels.Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface to fit your prepared baking sheet.In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree and ricotta cheese; season with salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.Spread the pumpkin-ricotta mixture over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.Top with caramelized onions and crispy bacon pieces evenly distributed.Brush fresh sage leaves with melted butter and scatter over the tart.Fold the edges of the puff pastry inward to form a rustic border and brush with beaten egg.Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.Allow the tart to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing into wedges to serve. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 10gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg NotesThis tart can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. For best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
