Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage

If you’re looking for a show-stopper that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then my Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is just what you need. This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of pumpkin and ricotta, paired with the richness of caramelized onions and smoky bacon. It’s a delightful balance of savory and sweet that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch, preparing for a family gathering, or just treating yourself after a long week, this tart fits the bill perfectly.

I love how this dish showcases seasonal ingredients while being simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s visually stunning—your friends and family will be in awe as you serve up slices of golden-brown goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have this tart ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves the combination of flavors, making it perfect for both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of creamy ricotta and rich pumpkin is complemented by smoky bacon and aromatic sage—yum!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious tart. Most are easy to find at your local grocery store, so shopping will be a breeze!

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Replace bacon with cooked chicken or use plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version.
• Change the cheese: Try goat cheese or feta instead of ricotta for a tangy twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with thyme or rosemary if you want to mix up the flavor profile.

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

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crisp. This step not only adds flavor but also creates delicious drippings that you can use for caramelizing the onions. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Using some of that tasty bacon fat left in the skillet, add your thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook them over medium-low heat for about 25–30 minutes until they become deeply golden and soft. Adding apple cider at the end enhances their sweetness even more!

Step 3: Prep Pastry

While those onions are caramelizing beautifully, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out each sheet of puff pastry slightly on a floured surface before placing them on parchment-lined baking sheets. Scoring a 1-inch border around the edges helps create that lovely crust as it bakes.

Step 4: Make Filling

In a bowl, mix together your ricotta cheese and pumpkin purée with some salt and pepper. Spread this creamy mixture evenly within the scored pastry borders. Next, layer on those sweet caramelized onions followed by mozzarella cheese and crumbled bacon.

Step 5: Add Sage & Bake

Scatter fresh sage leaves atop your tart—it adds such an aromatic touch! Brush those beautiful pastry edges with an egg wash (made from whisking together two eggs with water) to give them that golden shine. Then bake in your preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes until it’s puffed up and perfectly golden.

Step 6: Finish & Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top while it’s still warm. Serve this delightful tart warm or let it cool down to room temperature—either way is fantastic! Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating the perfect tart is a delightful journey, and with these tips, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh sage and high-quality cheeses. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor profile and bring out the best in your dish.

• Don’t Rush the Onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions. Cooking them slowly allows their natural sugars to develop, resulting in a sweeter, richer flavor that complements the tart beautifully.

• Preheat Your Oven: Ensuring your oven is fully preheated before baking will help achieve that lovely golden-brown crust that we all crave. A hot oven also ensures even cooking of the pastry.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While mozzarella gives a nice stretch, consider mixing in some goat cheese or feta for added tanginess. It’s a great way to customize the filling to your taste preferences.

• Let It Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the tart to cool slightly before slicing helps it set up better and makes for cleaner cuts. Plus, it lets those delicious flavors meld together beautifully!

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

This tart is not only stunning but also versatile! It makes for a fantastic centerpiece at any gathering, whether you’re serving it for brunch, as an appetizer, or at a cozy dinner with loved ones. Here are some ideas on how to elevate your presentation:

Garnishes

• Fresh Sage Leaves: Add a few whole sage leaves on top just before serving for a pop of color and an aromatic touch.
• Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over each slice for an extra layer of flavor that balances sweetness with tang.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich tart.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots caramelized in honey complement the sweetness of the pumpkin beautifully.

• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and nuts adds texture and nutrition while being hearty enough to stand up to the tart’s richness.

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any extra filling left on your plate—plus it’s always a crowd favorite!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage will not only be delicious but also visually appealing! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is not just a delight to serve fresh; it’s also fantastic for meal prep! Preparing a batch in advance makes it easy to enjoy this savory treat throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing.

Freezing

• Allow the tart to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The tart can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for a quick warm-up, but be aware this may make the pastry less crisp.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delightful recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I make the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tart up to baking. Just assemble it and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to pop it in the oven.

What can I use instead of bacon in the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage?

You can use turkey bacon or smoked tempeh as alternatives. Both will add a delicious smoky flavor without using traditional bacon.

Can I use other cheeses besides ricotta or mozzarella?

Certainly! Cream cheese or goat cheese can be great substitutes for ricotta, while cheddar or provolone will work well instead of mozzarella.

How do I ensure my tart crust stays flaky?

Make sure your puff pastry is cold when you bake it. Also, don’t skip pricking the center with a fork; this helps prevent the crust from puffing up too much during baking.

Is there a vegetarian version of the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart?

Yes! Simply omit the bacon or replace it with a plant-based alternative. The tart will still be packed with flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is a lovely blend of flavors that truly captures the essence of fall. It’s versatile enough for any occasion—whether a cozy dinner at home or an impressive dish for guests. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your creations and thoughts; I’d love to see how your tarts turn out!