Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines comfort and elegance, you’ve found it! The Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors. This tart is a perfect balance of creamy ricotta, luscious pumpkin, and sweet caramelized onions topped with crispy bacon. It’s rich yet light enough to serve as an appetizer or a main dish.

This recipe is particularly special because it brings together the warmth of home cooking with the sophistication you’d expect at a fancy brunch. Whether you’re hosting family for a cozy dinner, preparing for the holidays, or just looking to impress on a busy weeknight, this tart is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the tart in advance and pop it in the oven right before serving.
• Flexible Serving Options: Great as an appetizer or main course, this tart fits well into any meal plan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! Each one adds its own unique flavor to create that unforgettable taste we love. Here’s what you need for your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage:

For the Filling

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 4 sweet onions, thinly sliced
• Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup apple cider
• 1½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1⅓ cups pumpkin purée
• 2 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese

For the Pastry

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 2 handfuls fresh sage leaves
• 2 large eggs + 2 tsp water (for egg wash)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

Variations

One of the best things about this tart is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and adjust it to your taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative if you want to keep things lighter.
• Change up the cheese: Substitute goat cheese or feta cheese for a tangy twist!
• Add more veggies: Spinach or roasted red peppers can add extra color and nutrition while complementing the other flavors beautifully.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pastry options available at many grocery stores if you need a gluten-free version.

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

Step 1: Cook Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s nice and crispy. This step adds wonderful smoky flavor to your tart. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on paper towels to drain excess fat.

Step 2: Caramelize Onions

Next, in that same skillet (with some delicious bacon fat still left), add your thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cooking them slowly over medium-low heat allows their natural sugars to develop beautifully. After about 25–30 minutes, when they are deeply golden and soft, pour in apple cider. This will enhance their sweetness even more! Let them cook down for another 5 minutes.

Step 3: Prep Pastry

While your onions are caramelizing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out each puff pastry sheet slightly on a floured surface. Place them on parchment-lined baking sheets—this keeps everything from sticking! Score about a 1-inch border around the edges so they can puff up nicely while baking. Remember to prick the center with a fork; this helps prevent it from puffing up too much.

Step 4: Make Filling

In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and pumpkin purée with some salt and pepper. Spread this creamy mixture evenly inside your pastry borders. Next, layer on those sweet caramelized onions followed by mozzarella cheese and crumbled bacon. You’re building such great layers of flavor here!

Step 5: Add Sage & Bake

Now for some aromatic freshness—scatter those lovely sage leaves over the top of your filling. Before popping it into the oven, brush the edges of your pastry with an egg wash (just whisk together eggs with water). This will give your tart that beautiful golden finish! Bake for about 25–30 minutes until it’s puffy and golden brown.

Step 6: Finish

Once out of the oven, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the warm tart for that extra touch of savory goodness. Serve it warm or let it cool slightly to room temperature—either way, you’ll be in for a treat!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

Making this tart is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh sage truly enhances the flavor of this tart. Its aromatic quality pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pumpkin and the richness of cheese, creating a balanced dish.

• Don’t rush the onions: Caramelizing onions takes time, but it’s worth it! The longer you cook them over medium-low heat, the sweeter and more flavorful they become, adding depth to your tart.

• Keep pastry cold: Working with cold puff pastry ensures that it puffs up beautifully in the oven. If it starts to warm up while you’re working, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes before baking.

• Experiment with cheese: While mozzarella is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist. Each type of cheese brings its own character to the dish.

• Add a touch of spice: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the pumpkin and ricotta mixture for an unexpected kick that complements the sweet flavors.

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

Presenting your tart beautifully can make all the difference when it comes to impressing guests or family. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh sage: A sprinkle of freshly chopped sage on top just before serving adds color and enhances the herbal notes.
• Balsamic reduction: Drizzle some balsamic reduction over the slices for an extra layer of flavor that balances sweetness with acidity.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tart.
• Roasted root vegetables: Seasonal roasted carrots and parsnips tossed with olive oil and herbs complement the fall flavors in your tart.
• Creamy coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and brightness, cutting through the creaminess of your dish.
• Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover ricotta and pumpkin filling while adding a comforting touch.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’ll have everything you need to create an unforgettable dining experience featuring your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is not only a delightful dish for gatherings but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time to enjoy later, making your kitchen adventures even more enjoyable!

Storing Leftovers

• Let the tart cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Allow the tart to cool fully before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking if possible.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the tart and place it on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 1 minute.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious tart!

Can I make the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage without bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms to maintain that smoky flavor while keeping it plant-based.

What can I serve with the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage?

This tart pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables, adding freshness to your meal.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée in the tart?

Yes! Just roast and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth. It will add an extra layer of flavor.

How do I know when the tart is done baking?

The tart is ready when the pastry is golden brown and puffed, giving it that beautiful flaky texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage. Its warm flavors come together beautifully, making it a special addition to any meal. Enjoy each bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!

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