Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart

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This Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is a personal favorite of mine — not just for how stunning it looks when it comes out of the oven, but for the way it combines deep, savory flavors with a touch of sweetness. The contrast between golden caramelized onions and roasted butternut squash is magical, especially when tucked into a flaky, buttery tart crust and topped with crumbled goat cheese and fresh thyme. It’s the kind of dish that feels special but doesn’t demand a full day in the kitchen.

I love making this tart for brunch gatherings, cozy dinners, or even as a hearty appetizer. It’s surprisingly versatile — elegant enough to impress guests, yet comforting enough to enjoy as a solo weeknight dinner. I often serve it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine. The flavors feel like autumn wrapped in pastry, but honestly, I could eat this any time of year.

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Why You’ll Love This Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart

This tart is a flavor powerhouse — it brings together the sweet richness of slow-cooked onions, the earthy warmth of roasted squash, and the tang of goat cheese, all supported by a flaky, golden crust. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a showstopper main or just want to switch things up at your dinner table, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s colorful, comforting, and completely crave-worthy.

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What Kind of Pastry Should I Use?

I typically reach for a good-quality store-bought puff pastry when I make this tart. It saves time and still delivers that light, crispy bite that makes each forkful irresistible. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade tart dough or a savory shortcrust also work beautifully and give a more rustic touch. Just make sure to blind bake the crust if you’re using homemade pastry to avoid a soggy bottom.

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Options for Substitutions

Not a fan of goat cheese? Swap it with crumbled feta or even blue cheese for a stronger punch. If butternut squash isn’t in season, sweet potatoes or acorn squash make excellent replacements. Want to add protein? A bit of crispy pancetta or sautéed mushrooms folded into the mix will turn this into an even heartier dish. And for a dairy-free version, use vegan puff pastry and a plant-based cheese alternative.

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Ingredients for this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart

• Butternut Squash – Roasted to tender perfection, it brings natural sweetness and a velvety texture to the tart.
• Yellow Onions – Caramelized slowly to coax out their deep, rich flavor. These are the heart of the tart’s savory depth.
• Goat Cheese – Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness of the squash and onions.
• Puff Pastry – Flaky, buttery, and golden, it forms the perfect base for this tart. Store-bought is totally fine.
• Fresh Thyme – Brings a woodsy, aromatic note that lifts the dish.
• Olive Oil – Used for roasting and caramelizing; choose a good-quality oil for best flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional) – A sprinkle on top adds extra savoriness and a bit of crisp texture when baked.

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Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Peel and cube the butternut squash into small, even pieces. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.

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Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Thinly slice the onions and cook them low and slow in a skillet with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally over medium-low heat for about 30–40 minutes until they’re deeply golden, soft, and sweet. Patience is key here.

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Step 3: Prepare the Pastry Base

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a tart pan (rectangular or round works). Trim the edges if needed. Use a fork to gently prick the bottom and chill in the fridge while finishing the toppings.

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Step 4: Assemble the Tart

Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the chilled pastry. Add the roasted squash on top. Dot with crumbles of goat cheese, sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves, and an optional grating of Parmesan.

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Step 5: Bake the Tart

Bake the tart in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and the cheese has lightly browned.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the tart cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with a few extra thyme sprigs or a drizzle of honey for contrast if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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How Long to Prepare the Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart

Preparation Time:
The hands-on prep time is about 30–40 minutes. Roasting the squash and caramelizing the onions can happen simultaneously to save time. Most of the work is in prepping the vegetables and giving the onions enough time to achieve that perfect golden color.

Cooking/Baking Time:
Once everything is assembled, the tart bakes for about 25–30 minutes. Including time to let it cool slightly before slicing, you’re looking at a total of around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart

• Cut the squash into uniform pieces to ensure even roasting.
• Be patient with the onions — don’t rush the caramelization process by turning up the heat.
• Chill the puff pastry before baking to ensure it stays crisp and puffs beautifully.
• Sprinkle thyme just before baking to preserve its flavor and color.
• Use a tart pan with a removable bottom for easy release and a prettier presentation.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Undercooking the onions – If they’re not fully caramelized, you miss out on that deep, sweet flavor.
• Overloading the tart – Too much filling can lead to a soggy base.
• Using wet or watery vegetables – Make sure the squash is roasted enough to lose excess moisture.
• Skipping pre-baking (for homemade crusts) – Blind bake your crust if you’re not using puff pastry.
• Not seasoning enough – Taste your onions and squash before assembling to ensure they’re well-seasoned.

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What to Serve With Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart?

1. Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

A peppery and bright salad helps balance the richness of the tart.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their earthy, caramelized crunch pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the tart.

3. Tomato Basil Soup

A warm, comforting soup makes this tart a cozy main for colder nights.

4. Apple and Walnut Slaw

The crisp freshness and light acidity bring contrast and texture.

5. White Wine – Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay

These wines complement the goat cheese and herbs beautifully.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:
Let the tart cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to crisp up the pastry again.

Freezing:
This tart freezes surprisingly well. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.

Make Ahead:
You can caramelize the onions and roast the squash a day in advance. Store them in the fridge and assemble the tart just before baking.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 360–400 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 320mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have a tart pan?

You can use a baking sheet or pie dish instead. Just shape the puff pastry with a slight edge to hold the filling.

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare all the components ahead, then assemble and bake fresh. It tastes best the day it’s baked, but leftovers reheat well.

Is this tart vegetarian?

Yes, it’s fully vegetarian. Just ensure your puff pastry is made without animal fats (most store-bought versions are).

Can I use frozen squash?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before roasting or sautéing.

What other cheese works well besides goat cheese?

Try feta, blue cheese, or even ricotta for a milder, creamier option.

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Conclusion

The Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is a satisfying, versatile dish that blends sweet and savory flavors into a stunning centerpiece. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something comforting and elegant, this tart delivers on all fronts. It’s a celebration of textures and flavors — crisp pastry, sweet onions, hearty squash, and creamy cheese — that’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

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