Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

Savory and sweet collide beautifully in this Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage. This dish is perfect for a variety of occasions, from brunch gatherings to cozy dinners. The combination of creamy ricotta, rich pumpkin, and smoky bacon makes it a standout choice that’s sure to impress your guests while being simple enough for a weeknight meal.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Tart
• How to Make Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage
• Step 1: Cook Bacon
• Step 2: Caramelize Onions
• Step 3: Prep Pastry
• Step 4: Make Filling
• Step 5: Add Sage & Bake
• Step 6: Finish
• How to Serve Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage
• For Brunch Gatherings
• As an Appetizer
• For Cozy Dinners
• How to Perfect Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage
• Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage
• Reheating Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
• What can I substitute for sage?
• How do I know when my tart is done baking?
• How should I serve this tart?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of pumpkin, ricotta, caramelized onions, and sage creates an irresistible blend of flavors.
• Easy to Make: Even if you’re not an experienced cook, this tart comes together easily with straightforward steps.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, an appetizer for a dinner party, or a comforting family meal, this tart fits the bill.
• Visually Stunning: Its golden puff pastry and colorful filling make for a beautiful presentation.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows for ingredient swaps based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking sheets
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for cooking the bacon and caramelizing the onions evenly for maximum flavor.
• Baking sheets: Perfect for baking the tart and ensuring even heat distribution.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients like ricotta and pumpkin without mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out puff pastry to the right thickness for that flaky texture.

Ingredients

For the Tart

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 4 sweet onions, thinly sliced
• Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup apple cider
• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1⅓ cups pumpkin purée
• 2 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese
• 2 handfuls fresh sage leaves
• 2 large eggs + 2 tsp water (for egg wash)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

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

Step 1: Cook Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.

Step 2: Caramelize Onions

Using the same skillet with some reserved bacon fat:
* Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper.
* Cook over medium-low heat for 25–30 minutes until they are deeply golden and soft.
* Pour in the apple cider and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until well combined.

Step 3: Prep Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out each sheet of puff pastry slightly on a floured surface:
* Place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
* Score a 1-inch border around the edges using a knife.
* Prick the center with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.

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 inside the scored borders of the pastry.
* Top with caramelized onions, followed by mozzarella cheese and crumbled bacon.

Step 5: Add Sage & Bake

Scatter fresh sage leaves over the top of your tart:
* Brush the edges of the pastry with egg wash (a mix of beaten eggs and water).
* Bake in your preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and puffed.

Step 6: Finish

Once baked:
* Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
* Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

This Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is not just food; it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

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

This delightful tart can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a comforting dinner option, consider these serving suggestions.

For Brunch Gatherings

• Slice and Share: Cut the tart into wedges for easy sharing among guests.
• Pair with Fresh Salad: A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the savory flavors well.

As an Appetizer

• Mini Tartlets: Cut the puff pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized appetizers.
• Accompany with Dips: Serve alongside a creamy dip like herbed yogurt for added flavor.

For Cozy Dinners

• Serve with Roasted Vegetables: Add seasonal roasted veggies for a hearty meal.
• Enjoy with a Glass of Wine: Pairing with a crisp white wine elevates the dining experience.

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

To achieve the best results while making this tart, follow these tips to enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh ricotta and organic pumpkin purée make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Don’t Rush Caramelization: Take your time when caramelizing onions; low heat brings out their natural sweetness.
• Preheat the Oven Well: A properly preheated oven ensures that the pastry puffs up beautifully.
• Egg Wash for Shine: Brushing the edges with egg wash gives the tart an attractive golden finish.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be excellent alternatives to sage if you prefer different flavors.

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

Pairing side dishes with your tart enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette adds brightness to your plate.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with salt and pepper provide a delicious contrast.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside your tart.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries bring sweetness that complements the flavors of the tart beautifully.
5. Seasonal Vegetable Medley: Sautéed seasonal vegetables add color and variety to your meal.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon is both tasty and nutritious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage can be simple, but small errors can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Bacon: Cooking bacon until it’s completely crispy before adding it to the tart can make it tough. Aim for a balance where it’s crispy but still tender.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: Neglecting to brush the pastry edges with egg wash can result in a dull appearance. This step gives your tart a beautiful golden finish.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much or too little pumpkin purée or ricotta can alter the texture. Always measure ingredients precisely for best results.
• Ignoring Pastry Thawing Time: Failing to properly thaw frozen puff pastry can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to thaw it according to package instructions for even results.
• Rushing the Caramelization: Not allowing enough time for onions to caramelize will leave them raw and crunchy. Be patient and cook them low and slow for optimal sweetness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover tart in an airtight container.
• item Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.

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

• item Wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe container.
• item Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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

• item Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• item Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• item Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin purée. Just make sure it’s cooked down and smooth before adding it to the filling.

What can I substitute for sage?

If you don’t have sage on hand, thyme or rosemary work well as substitutes. They will impart different flavors but still complement the tart.

How do I know when my tart is done baking?

Your tart is done when the pastry is golden brown and puffed up. The cheese should also be bubbling.

How should I serve this tart?

This delicious tart is perfect as a brunch dish, appetizer, or even a cozy dinner option served with a salad.

Final Thoughts

The Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage combines sweet and savory elements into one delightful dish. Its versatility makes it perfect for various occasions—from brunch gatherings to a comforting weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding other vegetables or cheeses according to your taste!