As I hovered over the cutting board, the aroma of caramelized onions mingling with crispy bacon wafted through the kitchen, instantly whisking me away to cozy gatherings and laughter around the table. This Savory Pumpkin & Ricotta Tart with Bacon and Sage is my go-to recipe for special occasions and casual brunches alike. Not only does it offer a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, but it’s also a fantastic way to showcase seasonal ingredients that evoke the spirit of fall. With its flaky puff pastry crust and creamy filling, it’s sure to impress your guests and fill your home with warmth. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a true crowd-pleaser that you can prepare in no time. Are you ready to elevate your next meal with this cozy tart?
Why is this tart a must-try?
Irresistible flavors: The combination of creamy ricotta and rich pumpkin creates a luscious filling that pairs beautifully with smoky bacon and aromatic sage.
Flaky texture: A light, flaky puff pastry provides the perfect base, making each bite a delightful experience.
Versatile dish: Perfect for brunch, cozy dinners, or holiday gatherings, this tart is bound to impress any guest.
Seasonal ingredients: Embrace fall’s essence, showcasing ingredients that celebrate the season, just like in my French Onion Pasta or Chicken Enchiladas Tangy.
Quick prep: The straightforward method and use of store-bought pastry ensure you can serve up this stunning dish with little fuss, giving you more time to enjoy with loved ones!
Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart Ingredients
For the Tart Base
- Frozen Puff Pastry – This forms the foundation of your tart, providing a light, flaky texture; store-bought saves you time!
For the Filling
- Ricotta Cheese – Adds creaminess and body; for a lower-fat option, substitute with cottage cheese.
- Pumpkin Puree – Brings a characteristic fall flavor; both canned and homemade versions are great choices.
- Freshly Grated Mozzarella Cheese – Offers meltiness and adds to the cheesy goodness; provolone or fontina can be used instead.
For the Flavor Boost
- Bacon – Provides a rich, smoky flavor; consider turkey bacon for a lighter version.
- Sweet Onions – Caramelizes beautifully for sweetness; use yellow or Vidalia onions for the best results.
- Fresh Sage Leaves – Imparts an earthy aroma; if unavailable, dried sage can be an alternative but with a milder taste.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Season to taste; adjust according to dietary needs.
- Apple Cider – Adds a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity; white wine works as a substitution if needed.
For the Topping
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Provides a nutty, salty finish; you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a bolder flavor.
- Large Eggs + Water (for egg wash) – Ensures a shiny, golden crust; you may also use milk instead of water.
This Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is the perfect dish to celebrate the flavors of autumn and delight your family!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage
Step 1: Cook Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy and golden, about 6-8 minutes. This will render the fat, which you’ll use to enhance the flavors of your tart. Once cooked, carefully transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess grease, keeping it warm as you proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Caramelize Onions
Using the leftover bacon fat in the same skillet, add the sliced sweet onions and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook the onions for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and deeply caramelized. Add the apple cider to the onions, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the mixture is sweet and golden, creating a flavorful base for your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart.
Step 3: Prep Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s ready for baking your tart. On a floured surface, gently roll out the puff pastry sheets to slightly enlarge them. Transfer the rolled pastry to parchment-lined baking sheets, scoring a 1-inch border around the edges and pricking the center with a fork to prevent bubbling. This setup will help create a beautifully flaky crust.
Step 4: Make Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with pumpkin puree, and season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor of the filling. Spread this luscious mixture evenly within the scored border of the pastry. Layer on the caramelized onions, followed by the mozzarella cheese, and sprinkle the crispy bacon over the top to create a hearty filling for your tart.
Step 5: Add Sage & Bake
Scatter fresh sage leaves across the filling, which will impart an aromatic essence as it bakes. Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash made from beaten eggs and water to achieve a rich, golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the tart is puffed and beautifully golden-brown, signaling that it’s ready to serve.
Step 6: Finish
Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart from the oven. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt slightly from the heat. Let the tart rest for about 10 minutes before slicing, enabling the flavors to meld and ensuring cleaner cuts for serving warm or at room temperature.
Make Ahead Options
This Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling (ricotta, pumpkin puree, and caramelized onions) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply let the filling cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The puff pastry can also be rolled out and prepared up to 3 days ahead; just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the tart with the filling, scatter the sage, and bake as directed. This advance prep means you’ll have an impressive dish with minimal effort when it’s time to enjoy!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart
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Crispy Bacon: Ensure your bacon is cooked until crispy. This adds the perfect textural contrast to the creamy filling in your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart.
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Slow Onion Caramelization: Take your time when caramelizing onions to achieve rich, complex flavors. Rushing this step can lead to uneven sweetness and bitterness.
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Prick the Pastry: Always remember to prick the pastry center before baking. This prevents overinflation and spilling of the tart’s delicious filling.
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Resting Time: Allow the tart to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps with cleaner cuts and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Cheese Variations: Don’t hesitate to swap out the cheeses! Goat cheese adds a unique tang while staying true to the comforting essence of this Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon.
Storage Tips for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this keeps your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart fresh and ready to enjoy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months; defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes; this ensures the pastry stays flaky and the filling warms through.
Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this tart your own with these exciting twists!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey for a delightful sweet heat. It adds an unexpected and exciting zing to every bite.
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Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangier flavor. This swap will create a lovely contrast with the sweetness of pumpkin, adding depth to your dish.
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Herb Variants: Replace fresh sage with thyme for a different aromatic twist. Thyme’s earthy notes bring a new dimension while still honoring that cozy, comforting vibe.
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Veggie Boost: Add spinach or kale to the filling for an extra pop of color and nutrition. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes your tart look vibrant and fresh.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry to make this tart suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. The flavors will remain rich and indulgent!
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Nutty Flavor: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the pumpkin and bacon.
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Sweetness Factor: Drizzle some maple syrup over the tart just before serving. The contrast of sweet maple with savory ingredients brings everything together beautifully.
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Smoked Paprika: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika into the filling for a deeper smoky flavor. It’s an effortless way to elevate the deliciousness of your tart, echoing the smokiness of bacon.
Feel inspired? You might also enjoy whipping up some Salt & Pepper Chicken or my comforting Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce for your next family gathering!
What to Serve with Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage
When planning a delightful meal to accompany this cozy tart, consider these mouthwatering options that will enhance its rich flavors.
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Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a bright, peppery contrast to the creamy tart, balancing the richness beautifully.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized root vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, provide a hearty, earthy side that complements the fall flavors.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and balsamic glaze, these crispy sprouts bring a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness to the table.
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Braised Greens: Serve sautéed kale or Swiss chard for a nutritious green side that offers a delightful bitter contrast to the saltiness of the bacon.
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Herb-Infused Rice: A light herb-infused rice pilaf, perhaps with parsley or thyme, makes for a simple but flavorful side dish that won’t overshadow the tart.
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Pumpkin Soup: Start with a warm bowl of pumpkin soup, echoing the flavors of the tart and creating a comforting, cohesive autumn meal.
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Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly, cutting through the tart’s richness while enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.
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Cheesecake Bites: For dessert, light mini cheesecakes with a dollop of apple compote create a sweet but not overwhelming finish to your meal, delighting your guests.
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Spiced Chai Latte: Serve a warm spiced chai latte alongside the meal to bring cozy, aromatic flavors to the dining experience, rounding out the fall theme beautifully.
Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage Recipe FAQs
What kind of pumpkin should I use for this tart?
Absolutely! You can use either canned pumpkin puree or fresh pumpkin that you’ve cooked and pureed at home. If using fresh, opt for sugar pumpkins, which are sweeter and creamier than larger varieties. Just make sure to roast them until soft before pureeing.
How should I store leftover tart?
To keep your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart fresh, place any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, it will last for up to 3 days. If you want to savor it later, wrapping it well and freezing it is an option, allowing the tart to remain tasty for up to 2 months!
Can I freeze the tart before baking?
Yes, you can! To freeze the tart before baking, prepare it completely but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook it straight from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time at 400°F (200°C).
What should I do if the pastry puffs up too much during baking?
Very! If your puff pastry inflates excessively, you likely didn’t prick the center enough, which allows steam to escape. In the future, make sure to prick the center thoroughly using a fork, creating enough holes to let the steam escape, ensuring a beautifully flat tart.
Is this tart suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
I recommend being mindful of substitutions! You can use gluten-free puff pastry for those with gluten sensitivities, and turkey bacon is a great alternative for lighter options. For dairy-free diets, consider using dairy-free cheese substitutes and coconut cream instead of ricotta for a creamy texture. Always check for any allergies, especially with ingredients like cheese and eggs.
How can I reheat the tart for the best texture?
For the tastiest result, reheat your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the tart for about 15-20 minutes. This method preserves the flakiness of the pastry while warming the filling evenly.
Savory Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy and golden, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and keep warm.
- Using the leftover bacon fat, add the sliced sweet onions and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 25-30 minutes until caramelized, then add apple cider and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and transfer it to parchment-lined baking sheets, scoring a 1-inch border around the edges and pricking the center.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, pumpkin puree, and season with salt and pepper. Spread this mixture in the scored pastry border, then layer on caramelized onions, mozzarella cheese, and crispy bacon.
- Scatter fresh sage leaves over the filling. Brush the edges with egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until puffed and golden-brown.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
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