This recipe is an entertainer’s dream. It’s elegant, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser. The ingredients are simple, but the result is gourmet-level delicious. These tarts can be served warm or at room temperature, making them great for prepping ahead of time. Plus, the balance of textures—from the crisp pastry to the creamy cheese and tender onions—offers an indulgent eating experience.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Puff pastry sheets
Yellow onions
Olive oil
Salt
Sugar (optional, for enhanced caramelization)
Fresh thyme (optional)
Goat cheese
Egg (for egg wash)
Black pepper
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Peel and thinly slice the onions.
In a skillet over medium-low heat, add olive oil and sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring often, until the onions are soft and golden brown, about 25–30 minutes. Add a pinch of sugar and salt during the process for enhanced sweetness.
Roll out the puff pastry and cut into your desired tart shapes (squares, circles, or rectangles).
Place the pastry on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Lightly score a smaller square or circle inside each tart to create a border, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Spread the caramelized onions within the borders.
Crumble goat cheese evenly over the onions.
Sprinkle fresh thyme and black pepper on top.
Brush the edges of the pastry with a beaten egg.
Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden.
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 6–8 individual tarts depending on the size you cut. Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes (onions) + 20 minutes (baking) Total Time: About 1 hour Serves: 4–6 people as an appetizer or light meal
Variations
Use a different cheese: Swap goat cheese with feta, brie, or blue cheese for a twist in flavor.
Make it sweet-savory: Add a touch of balsamic glaze after baking.
Add herbs: Fresh rosemary or chives also pair well with the onion and goat cheese combo.
Mini tartlets: Use a muffin tin to create bite-sized versions for party platters.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes until warmed through and the pastry is crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the pastry.
FAQs
How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Scoring a border and not overloading the tart helps. Baking directly on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone also crisps the base.
Can I make these tarts ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare and bake the tarts in advance, then reheat in the oven before serving. They’re also delicious at room temperature.
Can I use store-bought caramelized onions?
While homemade is best for flavor, store-bought caramelized onions can be used in a pinch.
Can I freeze these tarts?
Yes, freeze them after baking. Reheat in a hot oven directly from frozen until warmed through and crispy.
What type of goat cheese works best?
A creamy, tangy soft goat cheese is ideal. You can also try herbed goat cheese for added flavor.
Do I need to blind-bake the puff pastry?
No blind baking is necessary for this recipe as the tart bakes fully once assembled.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not unless you use gluten-free puff pastry. Traditional puff pastry contains wheat.
Can I use red onions instead?
Yes, red onions will yield a slightly different, deeper sweetness but work beautifully.
Can I serve this as a main dish?
Yes, pair with a side salad for a light vegetarian lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts are a delightful addition to any menu, offering elegant flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party, a casual brunch, or enjoying them solo, these tarts are guaranteed to impress. Try them once, and they’ll become a go-to recipe in your rotation.
These Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts combine sweet, slow-cooked onions with tangy goat cheese in a flaky puff pastry shell. Perfect as an appetizer, light lunch, or party snack, they’re both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar (optional)
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
5 oz goat cheese, crumbled
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Peel and thinly slice the onions.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for 25–30 minutes until golden and caramelized. Add salt and sugar (if using) during cooking.
Roll out the puff pastry and cut into desired shapes (squares, rectangles, or circles).
Place the cut pastry pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Lightly score a border about 1/2 inch from the edge of each tart, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Spoon caramelized onions evenly inside the borders of each tart.
Top with crumbled goat cheese, sprinkle thyme and black pepper.
Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden.
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Don’t overload the tarts to avoid soggy pastry.Use a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet for extra crispy bottoms.Tarts can be made ahead and served at room temperature or reheated.Try other cheeses like feta or brie for variation.Use gluten-free puff pastry for a gluten-free version.
