This Caramelized Onion and Sweet Potato Tart is warm and comforting. The sweet potatoes hug the rich, golden onions in a flaky crust, making it hard to resist!
Who knew veggies could taste this good? I love serving it as a light meal or a snack. Pair it with a fresh salad, and you’re all set for a tasty treat! 🍠🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your tart crust. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure it has a binding agent.
Sweet Potatoes: They bring sweetness and creaminess to the tart. You can substitute with butternut squash for a similar texture and flavor, or even regular potatoes for a heartier option.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing as they have a sweet flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use shallots, but they cook faster, so watch them closely!
Blue Cheese: It adds a strong flavor to the tart. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese is a great alternative, offering a similar creaminess without the strong taste. For a dairy-free option, try cashew cheese.
Fresh Herbs: I love using thyme or rosemary, but feel free to swap in any fresh herbs you enjoy. Parsley or basil can also work nicely for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions might seem tricky, but it’s all about patience! Start with medium heat and give those onions time to unlock their sweetness. Here’s how:
- Heat butter and a bit of olive oil in a skillet.
- Add sliced onions and a pinch of sugar (to speed up caramelization).
- Stir occasionally, letting them cook down for about 25-30 minutes until they’re golden and soft.
- If they start to stick, just add a splash of water or balsamic vinegar to loosen them up.
Remember, the slower, the better! It’s worth the wait for that rich flavor!
Caramelized Onion and Sweet Potato Tart
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 pound), peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to help caramelize onions)
- 2 ounces blue cheese, crumbled (or goat cheese as an alternative)
- Fresh thyme leaves and/or rosemary, finely chopped (about 1 teaspoon)
- Optional: a splash of balsamic vinegar for the onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious tart takes about 30 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 25-30 minutes for cooking and baking. You’ll need a little time for chilling the dough as well, so make sure to plan on about 1.5 hours in total to make and serve this hearty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a food processor, pulse the flour and salt together. Next, add the cold, cubed butter and pulse again until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Slowly add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just comes together. Turn this mixture out onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a skillet, heat the tablespoon of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sugar, stirring occasionally. Cook them slowly for about 25-30 minutes until they’re soft and golden brown. If the pan gets too dry at any point, simply add a little water or a splash of balsamic vinegar. Once done, season with a pinch of salt and set aside to cool.
3. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add your cubed sweet potatoes. Boil them until tender, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Drain the sweet potatoes and mash them until they’re smooth. Stir in the remaining olive oil, fresh herbs, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Tarts:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your chilled dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use tartlet pans or muffin tins to cut the dough and fit it into individual tart shells, making sure to prick the bottom with a fork to prevent rising. Spread a layer of the mashed sweet potato into each shell, followed by crumbled blue cheese, and finish with a mound of caramelized onions on top.
5. Bake:
Bake the assembled tarts in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is a golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
6. Serve:
Garnish your beautiful tarts with fresh thyme or any additional herbs you enjoy. They can be served warm or at room temperature, paired nicely with a fresh green salad. Enjoy your homemade Caramelized Onion and Sweet Potato Tart!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Crust Instead of Making My Own?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a store-bought pie crust can simplify the process. Just follow the package directions for baking the crust before assembling your tart.
What Can I Substitute for Blue Cheese in the Filling?
If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, goat cheese is a great substitute that still offers creaminess. For a milder flavor, try using ricotta or cream cheese instead.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tart slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to enjoy the flavors again!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Tart?
Definitely! Feel free to include other veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers along with the sweet potatoes and onions for added flavor and nutrition.