As I stood in the kitchen, the warm scent of caramelized onions wafted through the air, mingling with the earthy notes of fresh sage. That’s when it hit me—this Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is the ultimate comfort food for the autumn season. It’s a delightful dish that effortlessly balances creamy ricotta, rich pumpkin, and the smoky goodness of bacon, making it equally perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive brunch with friends. Plus, it’s an easy way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen! Are you ready to fall in love with this irresistibly savory tart? Let’s dive in!
Why is this tart a must-try?
Irresistible flavor combination: This tart combines creamy ricotta, smoky bacon, and sweet caramelized onions, creating a harmonious bite that’s perfect for any palate. Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, it’s sure to be a hit at brunch or as a dinner centerpiece. Time-saving: Using frozen puff pastry means you can whip this dish up without the fuss. Versatile: Easily adapt it by replacing bacon with mushrooms for a vegetarian option. For extra inspiration, check out my recipes for Pumpkin Ravioli Sage and Carrots Whipped Ricotta!
Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this delicious pumpkin tart!
For the Tart Base
- Frozen Puff Pastry – This creates a flaky and buttery base; be sure to thaw it before use.
For the Filling
- Ricotta Cheese – Offers a creamy texture; you can substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
- Pumpkin Purée – The centerpiece flavor of this tart; canned works well, but fresh brings vibrance.
- Sweet Onions – Provide sweetness and richness; yellow or Vidalia onions are excellent choices.
- Eggs (for wash) – Gives the crust a beautiful golden finish; a milk wash can be used as an alternative.
For Flavor
- Bacon – Adds a savory, smoky depth; omitting it makes this tart vegetarian-friendly.
- Fresh Sage Leaves – Imparts an earthy aroma that enhances the dish; dried sage can be a fallback option.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste.
- Apple Cider – Brings sweetness and acidity to the caramelized onions; feel free to substitute with apple juice.
For the Finish
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty touch to complete this tart; Pecorino Romano works as a substitute.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Contributes creaminess and melty goodness; mild provolone is a great alternative.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage
Step 1: Cook Bacon
In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Flip the bacon occasionally for even cooking. Once done, remove it from the skillet and place the crispy slices on a paper towel to drain any excess grease, allowing it to cool and crisp further.
Step 2: Caramelize Onions
In the same skillet, now infused with bacon fat, add thinly sliced sweet onions over medium-low heat. Sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper, then sauté for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the onions are golden brown and caramelized, pour in apple cider and cook for an additional 5 minutes, enhancing their sweetness and flavor while scraping up any browned bits.
Step 3: Prep Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take thawed frozen puff pastry and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/4-inch thick. Transfer the pastry to a parchment-lined baking sheet, then score a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Use a fork to prick the center of the pastry, which helps keep it from puffing too much during baking.
Step 4: Make Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese and pumpkin purée, seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the center of the prepared pastry, leaving the scored edges untouched. Layer the caramelized onions, cooked bacon, and mozzarella cheese across the ricotta-pumpkin mixture, creating a delightful depth of flavor in this Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage.
Step 5: Add Sage & Bake
Scatter fresh sage leaves atop the filling for an aromatic touch. Brush the edges of the tart with an egg wash for a glossy, golden finish. Carefully place the tart in the preheated oven, baking for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully golden and the cheese is bubbling, creating a wonderful aroma throughout your kitchen.
Step 6: Finish
Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and immediately sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a savory punch. Allow the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time ensures cleaner cuts and enhances the flavor as the tart settles beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart
Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven helps maintain that delightful crispiness of the pastry.
Freezer: Wrap the whole tart tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before baking, and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the tart with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Room Temperature: If serving fresh, let the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart cool for about 10 minutes before slicing to help set the filling. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart
- Onion Timing: Make sure to caramelize onions slowly for maximum sweetness; rushing can result in bitterness.
- Pastry Precision: Pricking the pastry center is crucial to prevent overflow from the filling during baking.
- Cooling Time: Allow the tart to rest for 10 minutes after baking for cleaner slices that showcase the layers.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh sage over dried for a more vibrant flavor in your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart.
- Serving Balance: Consider pairing the tart with a fresh salad to balance its richness and enhance the overall meal.
What to Serve with Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage
Elevate your dining experience by crafting the perfect meal around this delightful tart, where comforting flavors take center stage.
-
Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery notes of arugula paired with a lemon vinaigrette complement the creamy richness of the tart beautifully. This salad adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing each bite and balancing the hearty flavors.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts tossed with balsamic glaze bring an earthy sweetness that perfectly offsets the smoky bacon and caramelized onions. Their crunch adds texture, making them an ideal side.
-
Savory Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of butternut squash soup adds a silky texture and a hint of sweetness that resonates with the tart’s autumn flavors. Serve it as a starter for a cozy touch.
-
Garlic Breadsticks: Flaky, buttery garlic breadsticks lend a delightful crunch alongside the creamy tart. Their aromatic garlic flavor is a match made in heaven for this dish, perfect for scooping up any leftover filling.
-
Cranberry Sauce: A sweet-tart cranberry sauce can elevate the savory elements of the tart. Its vibrant contrast serves as a beautiful garnish, ensuring each bite bursts with unexpected flavor.
-
Chardonnay: Pair this hearty tart with a glass of oaked Chardonnay. The wine’s creamy texture and fruity notes will enhance the flavors of the dish while beautifully balancing the richness of the ricotta and bacon.
-
Warm Apple Crisp: Finish your meal on a sweet note with warm apple crisp topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The comforting cinnamon and nutmeg in the dessert resonate with the pumpkin notes, creating a seamless transition.
-
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs can add lightness to your spread. Its delicate flavor will allow the tart to shine while providing a cozy, grainy texture.
-
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet honey-glazed carrots offer a vibrant pop of color and natural sweetness, which beautifully contrasts with the savory elements in the tart. This side dish will surely brighten your plate!
Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart Variations
Feel free to explore new dimensions with this delicious tart; the magic lies in the details!
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the bacon and instead, use crispy fried mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor. You’ll still enjoy the comforting essence of this recipe.
- Cheesy Swap: Incorporate blue cheese or goat cheese for a tangy twist that complements the sweetness of caramelized onions beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Add toasted walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful textural contrast, creating a bite that surprises pleasantly.
- Sweet Heat: Drizzle with hot honey after baking to introduce a spicy-sweet element, elevating the dish to new flavor heights.
- Savory Roots: Substitute butternut squash or sweet potatoes for pumpkin, transforming the flavor profile while keeping the heartiness intact.
- Dried Herbs: If fresh sage is unavailable, use a blend of dried herbs such as thyme and rosemary to maintain an aromatic touch.
- Creamy Base Alternative: Swap the ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter filling; just know it may be less creamy and a tad different in taste!
- Herb Infusion: Mix in some fresh chives or basil into the filling for an extra flavorful punch that brightens up the overall dish.
For a delightful side, consider pairing it with a bold arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, or even try my recipe for Rolled Chicken Feta for a complete meal!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage ahead of time is a fantastic way to save busy weeknights! You can make the filling (ricotta, pumpkin purée, and caramelized onions) up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to preserve freshness. To maintain the pastry’s flakiness, roll it out and store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the tart, adding the bacon, sage, and cheeses, then bake as directed. This streamlined approach ensures you enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal fuss!
Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pumpkin for the tart?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin, look for firm, unblemished specimens with a deep orange color. If using fresh pumpkin, opt for sugar or pie pumpkins as they are sweeter and have a smoother texture compared to larger carving pumpkins. They should feel heavy for their size and have a flat bottom.
How should I store leftovers of the tart?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the pastry’s crispiness, I recommend reheating the tart in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This way, the flakiness stays intact while warming through the filling.
Can I freeze the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart?
Certainly! For the best results, wrap the whole tart tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. I recommend freezing it before baking. To prepare, simply bake from frozen, adding about 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time until golden brown and heated through.
What if my onions are not caramelizing properly?
Oh no! If your onions aren’t caramelizing, it may be due to cooking them too quickly or using high heat. Make sure to cook them slowly over medium-low heat and stir occasionally. This process can take 25 to 30 minutes, allowing their natural sugars to develop and create that beautiful golden brown color. Be patient; the flavor is worth it!
Can my pets have any of the ingredients in the tart?
Good question! While plain pumpkin is generally safe for pets, be cautious with other ingredients. Onions are toxic to dogs and cats. Always ensure that they do not have access to the tart. If you want to share something with your furry friends, consider plain pumpkin puree (no added spices or salt) as a treat instead.
Is this tart suitable for vegetarians?
Very much so! You can easily make the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart vegetarian by omitting the bacon. Instead, consider adding crispy sautéed mushrooms or a hearty mix of veggies to keep it flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy all the cozy flavors without sacrificing dietary preferences!
Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon & Sage Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook bacon in a medium skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and drain excess grease.
- In the same skillet, add sweet onions and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 25-30 minutes until caramelized, then stir in apple cider and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out thawed pastry to 1/4-inch thick, transfer to a lined baking sheet, and score a border around the edges. Prick the center.
- Combine ricotta and pumpkin in a mixing bowl. Spread over pastry center, leaving edges untouched. Layer with caramelized onions, bacon, and mozzarella.
- Scatter fresh sage leaves on top. Brush edges with egg wash, then bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Leave a Reply