It was a chilly autumn evening when I first tried my hand at Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart. I’ll never forget the mouthwatering aroma that filled my kitchen as the buttery crust and caramelized onions baked to perfection. The sweet, nutty flavor of the roasted butternut squash was simply divine, and the crisp, flaky pastry was the perfect vessel to showcase this incredible combination of flavors.
From the moment I took that first bite, I knew I’d discovered a new family favorite. The velvety smooth filling and the satisfying crunch of the tart shell were a match made in culinary heaven. I couldn’t wait to share this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart with my loved ones, and it quickly became a staple at our holiday gatherings and cozy weekend dinners. There’s just something so comforting and indulgent about this tart that always leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
The secret to making this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart truly exceptional lies in the slow, gentle caramelization of the onions. By taking the time to let the onions cook low and slow, you’ll unlock a depth of flavor that simply can’t be achieved through faster cooking methods. The result is a sweet, almost jam-like onion filling that perfectly complements the earthy sweetness of the roasted butternut squash.
But that’s not all – the flaky, buttery pastry crust is the unsung hero of this recipe. By blind-baking the crust before adding the filling, you’ll ensure a crisp, sturdy base that can support the luscious tart without getting soggy. Plus, the touch of nutmeg and cayenne in the crust adds a delightful warmth and complexity that takes this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart to the next level.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Butternut squash: The star of the show, roasted to bring out its natural sweetness and nutty undertones.
- Yellow onions: Slowly caramelized to create a rich, jam-like filling.
- All-purpose flour: For the flaky, buttery pastry crust.
- Unsalted butter: Provides the rich, tender texture of the crust.
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess and a velvety mouthfeel to the tart filling.
- Eggs: Helps bind the filling and gives it a custard-like consistency.
- Nutmeg and cayenne pepper: Warm spices that complement the flavors of the Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart.
Step-by-Step Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart Instructions
Preparing Your Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
This Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. With a total time of around 2 hours, including the time needed to caramelize the onions and roast the squash, you’ll want to set aside a bit of time to make this tart. But don’t worry, the steps are straightforward, and the results are truly impressive. You’ll need a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom to get the perfect shape and presentation.
1- Begin by making the pastry crust. In a food processor, pulse together the flour, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne until combined. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough just begins to hold together.
2- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3- While the dough is chilling, prepare the butternut squash. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, seed, and cut the squash into 1-inch cubes. Toss the cubes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized.
4- Next, caramelize the onions. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes, or until the onions are deeply golden brown and caramelized.
5- Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle. Gently transfer the dough to the tart pan, pressing it into the sides and trimming any excess. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork, then line it with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
6- Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then remove the parchment and weights and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to nailing this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is in the preparation. Be sure to take the time to fully caramelize the onions – this can’t be rushed. And when it comes to the crust, blind-baking is essential for preventing a soggy bottom.
Another pro tip is to let the tart cool completely before slicing. This allows the filling to set up properly and ensures a clean, elegant presentation. And don’t be afraid to get creative with the garnishes – a sprinkle of toasted pecans or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can take this tart to new heights.
Serving and Storing Your Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
Perfect Pairings for Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
This Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is the ultimate comfort food, making it a perfect addition to any cozy autumn or winter gathering. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal. For drinks, a bold red wine or a warm, spiced cider would be a delightful complement to the flavors of the tart.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is a dish that can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal option for entertaining. Once baked and cooled, the tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place the tart in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
For maximum freshness, you can also prepare the components in advance. The pastry dough can be made and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. The roasted butternut squash and caramelized onions can be made a day or two ahead and refrigerated until ready to assemble the tart.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
Creative Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart Variations
While the classic Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this recipe. Try adding a layer of crumbled goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist. You could also experiment with different winter squash varieties, such as acorn or kabocha, for a slightly different flavor profile.
For a more festive touch, consider incorporating seasonal herbs like rosemary or thyme into the crust or the filling. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of toasted pecans over the top can take this tart to new levels of deliciousness.
Making Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart Diet-Friendly
To make this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart more diet-friendly, you can swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend in the crust. For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy milk and vegan butter or coconut oil in place of the regular butter and milk.
If you’re watching your carb intake, you can skip the pastry crust altogether and bake the filling in a greased baking dish instead. Serve it as a crustless “tart” or even scoop it over a bed of roasted vegetables for a low-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a pre-made pie crust instead of making my own?
A: Absolutely! Using a store-bought pie crust is a great time-saving option. Just be sure to blind-bake the crust before adding the filling.
Q: How do I know when the onions are caramelized enough?
A: The onions are ready when they’re a deep golden-brown color and have a sweet, jam-like consistency. This can take 30-40 minutes of slow cooking over medium-low heat.
Q: Can I make this tart ahead of time?
A: Yes, Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is an excellent make-ahead dish. The tart can be baked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also prepare the components in advance and assemble the tart just before baking.
Q: How do I slice the tart cleanly?
A: For the best presentation, let the tart cool completely before slicing. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice to ensure clean, even cuts.
Q: My crust seems a bit soggy. What can I do?
A: Make sure to thoroughly blind-bake the crust before adding the filling. You can also try par-baking the crust for an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
- Total Time: 90
- Yield: 8
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious combination of caramelized onions and roasted butternut squash in this buttery, flaky tart. The perfect Fall treat!
Ingredients
– 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 store-bought or homemade pie crust
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. – Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss the butternut squash cubes with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, until tender.
2. – In a large skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. – Roll out the pie crust and press it into a 9-inch tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for 10 minutes.
4. – In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Stir in the roasted butternut squash, caramelized onions, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
5. – Pour the filling into the pre-baked tart crust and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the center is set.
6. – Allow the tart to cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Notes
This tart can be served warm or at room temperature. For a sweeter version, drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 60
- Category: Snacks & Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is a true showstopper – a delicious and impressive dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its flaky crust, velvety filling, and irresistible flavors, it’s a recipe that’s destined to become a new holiday tradition in your home. So don’t be afraid to put in the time and effort – the end result is well worth it. Give this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart a try, and get ready to receive rave reviews from everyone who tastes it!