Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts in 3 Easy Steps Recipe

Introduction

These caramelized onion and goat cheese tarts are a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Easy to prepare in just a few simple steps, they make a delightful appetizer or light meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: In a pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter until melted.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced onions, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden and caramelized, about 20 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme leaves, then remove the pan from heat.
5. Step 5: Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares of your desired size.
6. Step 6: Place a generous spoonful of the caramelized onions on each puff pastry square, then top with crumbled goat cheese.
7. Step 7: Arrange the tarts on a baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
8. Step 8: Remove from oven and serve warm for the best flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Use red onions instead of yellow for a slightly sweeter taste and vibrant color.
• Add a few chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for added crunch.
• Swap goat cheese for feta or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Serve with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for extra freshness.

Storage

Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes to keep the pastry crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the caramelized onions in advance?

Yes, you can caramelize the onions a day ahead and refrigerate them. Just reheat slightly before assembling the tarts.

Is puff pastry available frozen or fresh?

Puff pastry is commonly sold frozen, so be sure to thaw it according to package instructions before use. Fresh puff pastry can also be found in some specialty stores or prepared at home.

Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts in 3 Easy Steps Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 72 reviews

These Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts feature a flaky puff pastry base topped with sweet, slowly caramelized onions and tangy goat cheese, accented by fresh thyme and a hint of balsamic vinegar. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or savory snack, they come together quickly in just a few easy steps and bake to a golden, bubbly perfection.

• Author: Tim
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 small tarts 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Puff Pastry

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

For the Caramelized Onions

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

For the Topping

• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready when your tarts are assembled.
2. Caramelize Onions: In a pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter. Add the thinly sliced onions along with sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft, deeply golden, and nicely caramelized.
3. Add Flavorings: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme leaves to the caramelized onions, then remove the pan from heat to preserve the fresh herb aroma.
4. Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into equally sized squares, ideal for individual tarts.
5. Assemble Tarts: Place the puff pastry squares on a baking tray lined with parchment. Evenly distribute the caramelized onion mixture on each square, then sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese on top.
6. Bake: Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the pastry has puffed up and turned golden brown, and the cheese is slightly melted and creamy.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the tarts warm to enjoy the perfect contrast of flaky crust and savory toppings.

Notes

• Make sure to cook the onions slowly to develop deep caramelization without burning.
• You can add a touch of honey or maple syrup if you prefer sweeter onions.
• Use chilled puff pastry for easier handling and better puffing.
• These tarts are best served warm but can be reheated gently in the oven.
• Fresh thyme can be substituted with rosemary or sage if preferred.

Keywords: caramelized onion tarts, goat cheese tarts, puff pastry appetizers, easy appetizer recipes, savory tarts, French appetizers