Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart – Easy & Flavorful

Discover how to make a delicious Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart that’s perfect for any season. Follow our easy recipe and impress your guests today.

Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both savory and a little sweet, this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is a wonderful choice. The combination of slow-cooked onions and tender roasted squash on a flaky crust makes every bite a delight. Perfect for fall or any cozy gathering, this tart is surprisingly easy to prepare and sure to become a new favorite.

Using simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a stunning dessert—or even a brunch centerpiece—that balances rich, caramelized flavors with light, fresh thyme and a hint of tang from balsamic vinegar.

Why You’ll Love It

This tart combines the earthy sweetness of butternut squash with deep, caramelized onions, all baked into a buttery crust. It’s an elegant yet rustic dish that works beautifully as a dessert or appetizer. Plus, it’s adaptable for different diets and occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry or tart dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced (substitute with sweet potato if preferred)
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced (yellow or sweet onions work best)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 tbsp butter or dairy-free alternative
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese (can substitute with mozzarella or vegan cheese)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for a touch of acidity)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
3. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, until caramelized and deep golden brown—about 20 minutes.
4. Roll out the puff pastry on a parchment-lined baking tray. Use a fork to prick the pastry, preventing it from puffing too much during baking.
5. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Top with roasted butternut squash, sprinkle fresh thyme and Gruyere cheese evenly over the tart. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the crust is golden and crisp and cheese is melted.
8. Cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

For related recipes, check out Easy Weeknight Dinners and Seasonal Vegetable Recipes to enjoy more flavorful dishes all year round.

Expert Tips

To caramelize onions perfectly, be patient and cook them low and slow. Stir frequently to prevent them from burning. Roasting the butternut squash beforehand adds a lovely depth of flavor but can be swapped for steamed or pan-roasted squash for a quicker method.

Use fresh thyme for the best aroma, but dried thyme works in a pinch. If you’re avoiding dairy, vegan cheese and plant-based butter make excellent substitutes that hold up well in baking.

Storage

Store leftover tart in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to retain crispness. You can freeze cooked, cooled tart wrapped tightly in foil for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations

• Vegan: Use vegan puff pastry, plant-based butter, and vegan cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Replace pastry with gluten-free tart crust.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and cheese with dairy-free alternatives.
• Refined Sugar-Free: This recipe contains no added refined sugar but check labels on store-bought dough.

FAQ

Can I prepare the Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart ahead?

Yes, you can prepare components in advance. Caramelize onions and roast squash a day before, then assemble and bake when ready.

What cheese works best for this tart?

Gruyere is ideal for its flavor and meltability, but mozzarella or fontina are good alternatives.

Is this tart suitable as a dessert?

While savory, its subtle sweetness from caramelized onions and squash makes it a delightful light dessert or appetizer.

How do I prevent the puff pastry from shrinking?

Let the dough rest before rolling and avoid stretching it. Pricking the dough releases trapped air that can cause shrinking.

Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?

Yes, fresh thyme is preferred for its bright flavor, but dried thyme works; use about half the amount.

Call to Action

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For more recipes that combine simplicity with flavor, explore our Easy Weeknight Dinners, and visit trusted culinary sites like Food Network for inspiration.