The crisp autumn air, the vibrant colors of the leaves, and the cozy feeling of a warm kitchen – these are the things that inspired me to create this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart. It all started a few years ago when I was hosting a small dinner party for some close friends. I wanted to wow them with a dish that captured the essence of the season, and this tart was the perfect solution.
As I began prepping the ingredients, the aroma of the caramelized onions and roasted butternut squash filled the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy autumn day. The process of layering the flavors and textures was truly a labor of love, but the end result was so worth it. The buttery, flaky crust perfectly complemented the sweet and savory filling, creating a symphony of flavors that had my guests raving.
From that moment on, this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart became a staple in my repertoire, a dish that I turn to whenever I want to impress or simply enjoy the comforts of the season. It’s a recipe that has stood the test of time, and I’m thrilled to share it with you today.
Why This Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
The key to this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart’s success lies in the caramelization process. By slowly simmering the thinly sliced onions in butter and brown sugar, you unlock a depth of flavor that is simply unparalleled. The natural sweetness of the onions combines with the rich, buttery notes to create a complex and irresistible base for the tart.
But that’s not all – the addition of butternut squash takes this dish to a whole new level. The cubed squash adds a creamy, subtly sweet element that perfectly complements the caramelized onions. And the blend of warm spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, brings a cozy, autumnal touch that ties the entire dish together.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust: This flaky, buttery crust provides the perfect foundation for the decadent filling.
- 2 cups cubed butternut squash: The star of the show, adding a creamy texture and natural sweetness to the tart.
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced: When caramelized, the onions lend a deep, rich flavor that is simply irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Crucial for achieving that perfect caramelization.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: This adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: These warm spices enhance the autumnal flavors.
- 2 large eggs: Binding the filling together for a creamy, custard-like texture.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds a luxurious, velvety mouthfeel.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a subtle cheesy note and helps to set the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart Instructions
Preparing Your Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 35 minutes, this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart comes together in a total of 50 minutes. All you’ll need is a pie dish, a skillet, and a few essential tools to create this delightful autumn masterpiece.
1- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9-inch pie dish with non-stick cooking spray. Unroll the refrigerated pie crust and press it into the prepared dish, crimping the edges to create a decorative border.
2- In a large skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes, until the onions are caramelized and deeply golden brown.
3- Add the 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to the skillet and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the onions are completely caramelized and the sugar has dissolved.
4- In a large bowl, combine the caramelized onions, 2 cups of cubed butternut squash, 2 large eggs, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg over the top.
6- Bake the Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart for 35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Allow the tart to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a sharp knife or mandoline to ensure the onions are thinly sliced, which will help them caramelize more evenly.
- Don’t be tempted to rush the caramelization process – take your time and let the onions develop that rich, deep flavor.
- For an extra-creamy filling, consider using a combination of heavy cream and whole milk.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or crumbled feta, to add a unique twist to the tart.
Serving and Storing Your Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
Perfect Pairings for Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
This Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart serves 6 and is the perfect centerpiece for a cozy autumn gathering. Pair it with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted root vegetables or a warm, crusty bread.
To drink, a crisp white wine or a rich, full-bodied red would complement the flavors beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a spiced apple cider or a pumpkin-flavored latte would be a delightful accompaniment.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place slices in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the tart filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and follow the baking instructions.
If you’d like to freeze the tart, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the tart in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
Creative Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart Variations
- Swap the butternut squash for acorn squash or a mixture of different winter squashes for a delightful twist.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts to the top of the tart for a crunchy texture.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or crumbled bacon into the filling for an extra savory element.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as fresh thyme or sage, to complement the autumnal flavors.
Making Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free pie crust or make your own using a gluten-free flour blend.
To make the tart vegan, replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew-based or almond-based parmesan.
For a low-carb adaptation, substitute the butternut squash with roasted cauliflower or zucchini, and use a keto-friendly pie crust or a crustless baking dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of onion instead of a large onion?
A: Absolutely! While a large onion is the recommended size, you can use a medium or even a combination of different onion varieties, such as shallots, red onions, or sweet onions, to create your own unique flavor profile.
Q: How can I adjust the baking time if my tart is a different size?
A: The 35-minute baking time is based on a 9-inch pie dish. If you’re using a different size, the baking time may need to be adjusted. As a general rule, a smaller tart will bake faster, while a larger tart may require a few extra minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on the tart and check for a golden-brown crust and a set center.
Q: Can I make the Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This tart is the perfect make-ahead dish. You can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and follow the baking instructions.
Q: How many servings does this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart make?
A: This recipe serves 6 people. If you need to feed a larger crowd, you can easily scale up the ingredients and use a larger pie dish or even bake two tarts.
Q: What should I do if the crust starts to brown too quickly?
A: If you notice the crust is browning too quickly, simply cover the edges with foil or a pie crust shield to prevent further browning. This will allow the center of the tart to continue baking without the crust burning.
Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart – a perfect comfort food for cozy fall gatherings. The combination of tender butternut squash and sweet caramelized onions in a flaky pastry crust is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
– 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust
– 2 cups cubed butternut squash
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Press the pie crust into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the caramelized onions, cubed butternut squash, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread the butternut squash and onion mixture evenly into the prepared tart pan. Pour the egg mixture over the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly browned.
7. Allow the tart to cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
For a richer flavor, you can use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated. Garnish the tart with fresh thyme or sage leaves for an extra touch of autumn flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Pies & Pastries
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
The Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is a true autumn showstopper that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its irresistible flavors, creamy texture, and flaky crust, this recipe is destined to become a new fall favorite. Don’t be surprised if your guests request this tart again and again – it’s that good!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will fill your home with the cozy, autumnal aromas of this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart. Let me know in the comments how it turns out, and be sure to share your own tips and variations. Enjoy!
