why make this recipe

Caramelized Onion and Cheese Tarts are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These tarts combine the sweet, rich flavors of caramelized onions with creamy, melty cheese, all nestled in a flaky crust. They are great as appetizers, snacks, or even a side dish. Plus, they are simple to make and will impress your family and friends with their delicious taste.

how to make Caramelized Onion and Cheese Tarts

Ingredients:

3 large yellow onions: Yellow onions are the best for caramelization, bringing sweetness and flavor to the dish. Choose firm onions without blemishes, about 2 pounds total.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Good quality extra virgin olive oil helps onions caramelize without burning. You can also use butter or a mix of both for extra flavor.
1 tablespoon butter (unsalted): Butter adds richness and aids in browning the onions. Unsalted butter allows better control of the dish’s saltiness.
1 teaspoon granulated sugar: A little sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the onions and assists the caramelization process. Brown sugar can be used for a different flavor.
1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar: This adds acidity and depth to the caramelized onions, balancing sweetness beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves): Thyme offers an earthy note that pairs well with onion and cheese. Fresh is best, but dried works great too.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for flavor! Adjust to your taste while cooking the onions.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for the filling. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
4 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated: A nutty cheese that melts beautifully and compliments the onions. Alternatives include Swiss or cheddar cheese.
2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a salty, umami depth. Freshly grated gives the best flavor.
1 large egg: Binds the cheese filling and adds richness.
1/4 cup heavy cream or crème fraîche: Adds extra creaminess. Crème fraîche brings a tangy flavor while whole milk can be a lighter option.
Pinch of nutmeg (optional): Just a tiny pinch enhances the flavor. Be careful as it can be overpowering.
1 box (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie crust): For convenience, refrigerated pie crusts are great. You can also use puff pastry for a different texture.
Fresh thyme sprigs: For garnish.
Balsamic glaze: For drizzling on finished tarts for a sweet and tangy touch.

Directions:

Start by preparing the onions. Slice the yellow onions into thin strips.
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts.
Add the onions to the skillet and stir to coat them in the oil and butter.
Sprinkle in the sugar, balsamic vinegar, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes, until they are deep golden brown and caramelized.
Once the onions are done, remove the skillet from heat and let them cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Gruyère, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, heavy cream, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
Add the caramelized onions to the cheese mixture and fold gently to combine.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the pie crust and fit it into tart pans or a baking dish.
Pour the onion and cheese mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden and the filling is set.
Let the tarts cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and drizzle balsamic glaze on top.

how to serve Caramelized Onion and Cheese Tarts

Serve the Caramelized Onion and Cheese Tarts warm or at room temperature. They make a great appetizer at parties and can be enjoyed as a delightful snack during the day. They pair well with a fresh salad or a light wine.

how to store Caramelized Onion and Cheese Tarts

If you have leftovers, store the tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to regain their crispness before serving again.

tips to make Caramelized Onion and Cheese Tarts

Be patient while caramelizing the onions; it enhances their flavor.
Use fresh ingredients for the best taste, especially cheese and herbs.
Experiment with different cheeses based on your preference.

variation (if any)

You can add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a meatier version. Different herbs like rosemary or sage can also be used for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes! Store-bought pie crust helps save time. Just roll it out and fit it into your tart pans.
What can I substitute for Gruyère cheese?
Swiss cheese, Fontina, or sharp cheddar cheese are good alternatives.
Can I freeze the tarts?
Yes, you can freeze the baked tarts. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw before reheating in the oven.

Caramelized Onion and Cheese Tarts

Delightful tarts that combine sweet caramelized onions with creamy cheeses in a flaky crust, perfect for appetizers or snacks.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 15

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine French

Servings tarts

Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients

For the Caramelized Onions

3 large yellow onions Best for caramelization, bringing sweetness.
2 tablespoons olive oil Good quality extra virgin helps prevent burning.
1 tablespoon butter (unsalted) Adds richness and aids in browning.
1 teaspoon granulated sugar Enhances the natural sweetness of the onions.
1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar Adds acidity and depth.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme Offers an earthy note that pairs well with onion.
to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper Essential for flavor.

For the Cheese Filling

8 ounces cream cheese (softened) Ensure it's at room temperature.
4 ounces Gruyère cheese (grated) Alternatives include Swiss or cheddar.
2 ounces Parmesan cheese (grated) Freshly grated gives best flavor.
1 large egg Binds the cheese filling.
1/4 cup heavy cream or crème fraîche Adds creaminess; crème fraîche brings tangy flavor.
a pinch nutmeg (optional) Enhances flavor; use sparingly.

For the Crust and Garnish

1 box (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts Convenient, or use homemade or puff pastry.
to taste fresh thyme sprigs For garnish.
to drizzle balsamic glaze For a sweet and tangy touch.

Instructions

Preparation

Slice the yellow onions into thin strips.
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts.
Add the onions to the skillet and stir to coat them in the oil and butter.
Sprinkle in the sugar, balsamic vinegar, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until they are deep golden brown and caramelized.
Once the onions are done, remove the skillet from heat and let them cool slightly.

Filling Preparation

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Gruyère, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, heavy cream, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
Add the caramelized onions to the cheese mixture and fold gently to combine.

Baking

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the pie crust and fit it into tart pans or a baking dish.
Pour the onion and cheese mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden and the filling is set.
Let the tarts cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Be patient while caramelizing the onions; it enhances their flavor. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste, especially cheese and herbs. Experiment with different cheeses based on your preference.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 6gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g

Keyword Caramelized Onions, Cheese Tarts, Delicious Snack, Party Appetizer, Savory Tarts

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