Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

Savory meets sweet in this Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage. This delightful tart features layers of creamy ricotta, rich pumpkin, and deeply caramelized onions, all enveloped in a flaky pastry. The aromatic sage adds a fresh touch while the golden crust makes it an impressive centerpiece for brunch, appetizers, or cozy dinners. Perfect for any occasion, this tart is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this tart ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy ricotta, pumpkin sweetness, and savory onions creates a dish that bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a stunning appetizer or a comforting main course; it’s perfect for any meal.
• Seasonal Appeal: Incorporates seasonal ingredients that will make you feel warm and cozy during chilly months.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden puff pastry crust adds an elegant touch that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this mouthwatering recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a seamless cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking sheets
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the onions evenly and allowing room for caramelization.
• Baking sheets: Needed for baking the tart without worrying about spills or messes in your oven.

Ingredients

For the Tart Base

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed

For the Filling

• 1½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1⅓ cups pumpkin purée
• 2 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese

For Topping

• Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

For Flavoring

• 4 sweet onions, thinly sliced
• 6 slices bacon, chopped (use chicken or turkey bacon as an alternative)
• Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup apple cider
• 2 handfuls fresh sage leaves

For Egg Wash

• 2 large eggs + 2 tsp water

How to Make Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crisp. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Using some of the remaining fat in the skillet, add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Cook them over medium-low heat for 25 to 30 minutes until they become deeply golden and soft. Pour in the apple cider and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

Step 3: Prep Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out each sheet of puff pastry slightly on a floured surface and place them onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Score a 1-inch border around the edges using a knife and prick the center with a fork.

Step 4: Make Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with pumpkin purée. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Spread this mixture evenly within the pastry borders. Top it off with caramelized onions, mozzarella cheese, and crumbled bacon.

Step 5: Add Sage & Bake

Sprinkle fresh sage leaves over the top of your tart. Brush the edges of the pastry with an egg wash made from whisking together eggs and water. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.

Step 6: Finish

Remove from oven once done, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart!

How to Serve Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

This delightful tart is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance any meal. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a hearty dinner option, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small slices on a platter for guests to enjoy as finger food at parties or gatherings.

Paired with Salad

• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the tart beautifully.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add a colorful and flavorful element that balances the creaminess of the tart.

Accompanied by Soup

• Pairing the tart with a warm bowl of butternut squash or tomato soup creates a comforting meal perfect for chilly days.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include it on your brunch table alongside eggs and pastries for an impressive variety that pleases everyone.

How to Perfect Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

Creating the perfect pumpkin tart takes a bit of care and attention. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh sage and quality ricotta will elevate the flavor profile of the tart significantly.

• Don’t Rush Caramelization: Take your time when caramelizing onions; slow cooking will bring out their natural sweetness.

• Keep Pastry Cold: Make sure your puff pastry remains chilled before baking for that flaky texture we all love.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Mix different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for additional flavor complexity.

• Add Texture: Consider sprinkling nuts like walnuts or pecans on top before baking for an extra crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

To complement your pumpkin tart, serve it alongside these delicious side dishes. Each option adds balance and enhances the overall meal experience.

1. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad featuring mixed greens dressed with olive oil and lemon juice provides a refreshing contrast.

2. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic make for a hearty side that pairs well with the tart’s flavors.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with olive oil offers both nutrition and color to your plate.

4. Carrot Ginger Soup: This velvety soup enhances the autumnal theme while adding warmth to your meal.

5. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad tossed with cranberries and nuts introduces additional texture and nutty flavors.

6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb option that still feels substantial next to the rich tart.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the caramelization: Skipping or rushing the caramelization process can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Take your time; this step adds a rich depth to the tart.
• Overfilling the pastry: Filling the tart too much can cause it to overflow during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfect appearance and texture.
• Not using enough seasoning: A bland tart can ruin the experience. Always season each layer with salt and pepper for balanced flavor.
• Ignoring puff pastry thawing instructions: Rushing the thawing process can affect the texture of the pastry. Follow package instructions for optimal flakiness.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Ensure your oven is preheated before placing your tart inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one slice at a time on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Cover and heat each slice for about 5-7 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making and storing the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart.

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

You can prepare the tart a day in advance. Bake it, let it cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator until serving.

What can I use instead of bacon?

For a delicious alternative, consider using turkey bacon or smoked chicken as substitutes while still adding that smoky flavor.

How do I customize my Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also switch cheeses based on your preference!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes! If using fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender, then blend or mash it until smooth before adding it to your filling mixture.

How do I ensure my puff pastry turns out flaky?

Make sure not to overwork the dough when rolling it out and keep it cold before baking. This promotes flakiness when baked.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart is not just visually stunning but also brings a delightful blend of flavors that make it perfect for any occasion. The versatility allows you to experiment with different ingredients while still enjoying its creamy texture and savory taste. Give this recipe a try and make it your own!