Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

Savory meets sweet in this Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage. This dish is perfect for various occasions, from brunch gatherings to cozy dinners. The flaky puff pastry, creamy ricotta, and rich pumpkin create a delightful balance of flavors. Topped with caramelized onions and fresh sage, this tart stands out as a beautiful centerpiece on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of pumpkin, ricotta, and caramelized onions creates a unique taste that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for brunch, dinner parties, or even as an appetizer, this tart suits any occasion.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizing fall ingredients like pumpkin and sage makes it a great choice for seasonal meals.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden puff pastry and vibrant filling make this tart visually stunning.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking sheets
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the bacon and caramelizing the onions evenly.
• Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy base for the puff pastry while baking.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the ricotta and pumpkin purée smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped (alternative for pork bacon)
• 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
• 2 handfuls fresh sage leaves

For the Pastry

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 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 Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey bacon until crisp. Remove it from the pan and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.

Step 2: Caramelize Onions

Using the same skillet with some of the rendered fat from the turkey bacon:
1. Add thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Cook over medium-low heat for about 25–30 minutes or until onions are deeply golden and soft.
3. Add apple cider to the pan and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

Step 3: Prep Pastry

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

Step 4: Make Filling

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine ricotta cheese with pumpkin purée.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spread this mixture evenly within the scored borders of each pastry sheet.

Step 5: Assemble Tart

Top the ricotta-pumpkin mixture with:
– Caramelized onions,
– Mozzarella cheese,
– Crumbled turkey bacon.

Scatter fresh sage leaves over the top.

Step 6: Bake

1. Brush the edges of the pastry with egg wash (mix eggs with water).
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.

Step 7: Finish

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

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart!

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

This delightful tart is versatile and makes a great addition to any meal. It can be served as a main dish or as an appetizer, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

As a Main Course

• Pair with a fresh salad for a light and balanced meal.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for added flavor and color.

As an Appetizer

• Slice into small wedges for easy sharing during parties.
• Accompany with a tangy dipping sauce to enhance the flavors.

For Brunch

• Serve warm with a side of mixed berries for a sweet contrast.
• Offer mimosas (non-alcoholic versions) to complement the savory tart.

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

Creating the perfect tart takes some practice, but these tips will help you nail it every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ricotta and seasonal pumpkin elevate the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Rush the Onions: Slow caramelization brings out the natural sweetness; give them time.
• Chill Your Pastry: Keep puff pastry cold before baking for a flakier crust.
• Season Generously: Salt and pepper are crucial; don’t skip out on seasoning your filling.

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

Complement your tart with these delicious side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness to the rich tart.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts provide a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes make for a comforting side that pairs well.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, steamed asparagus enhances the meal’s presentation.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa offers texture and is packed with nutrients—great for health-conscious eaters.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast to the savory tart, making them an enjoyable choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding pitfalls in the kitchen can make your cooking experience much more enjoyable. Here are some common mistakes people often make when preparing Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage.

• Ignoring the puff pastry: Thaw your puff pastry completely before use. If it’s still frozen or partially thawed, it won’t bake properly and could become soggy.
• Overcooking the onions: While caramelizing onions, keep an eye on them. Cooking too quickly at high heat can burn them instead of creating that sweet, tender texture.
• Skimping on seasoning: Don’t forget to season your ricotta and pumpkin mixture well with salt and pepper. This enhances the overall flavor of the tart.
• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven as per the recipe instructions. Baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking.
• Rushing the cooling process: Allow your tart to cool slightly before serving. This helps set the filling and makes slicing easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.

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

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label containers for easy identification.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1–2 minutes. Check frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage.

Can I use different cheese in the tart?

Yes! You can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile while maintaining creaminess.

What can I use instead of bacon?

For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or smoky tempeh to add depth of flavor without meat.

How do I ensure my tart stays crispy?

Make sure your puff pastry is thawed properly and avoid overfilling it with moist ingredients like pumpkin puree.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition and flavor diversity.

Final Thoughts

The Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this tart can be customized by adding your favorite vegetables or changing up the cheeses. Give it a try; it’s sure to impress!