Craving a dish that combines rich flavors and a delightful texture? Look no further than this Caramelized Onion and Bacon Tart – a buttery pastry tart filled with sweet caramelized onions and crispy bacon. This recipe is not just about feeding your hunger, it’s about indulging in a mouthwatering experience that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a flaky, buttery crust, revealing a luscious filling that balances the sweetness of caramelized onions with the savory crunch of bacon. It’s the perfect dish for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Visual Appeal of the Tart
The Caramelized Onion and Bacon Tart is a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the palate. Its golden, flaky crust invites you in, showcasing a rich filling that hints at the savory delight within.
Sprinkled atop are fresh herbs, adding a burst of color and a touch of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the deep hues of the caramelized onions.
Placing a slice on a plate reveals the layers of flavor, making it hard to resist taking that first bite.
The Perfect Flaky Crust
A buttery pastry crust is key to the success of this dish. It serves as the foundation, providing structure and a delightful crunch.
Pre-baking the crust ensures it remains flaky, resisting sogginess while supporting the rich filling. Carefully crafting the crust layers is essential to achieving that perfect texture.
The baking process transforms the raw dough into a beautiful, lightly golden base, ready to cradle the delicious ingredients.
Caramelization Magic
Caramelizing onions is where the magic happens. Slowly cooking them in olive oil and butter allows them to transform from sharp and pungent to sweet and mellow.
This process, taking around 20-25 minutes, requires patience as you stir occasionally, waiting for those golden strands to develop.
Once they reach that perfect caramelized state, the addition of crispy bacon elevates the flavor profile, introducing a salty crunch that harmonizes with the sweet onions.
The Flavorful Filling
The filling of this tart is a wonderful blend of textures and flavors. Whisking together eggs and heavy cream creates a rich custard that perfectly binds the caramelized onions and bacon.
If you choose to add cheese, it can lend another layer of creaminess and depth, enhancing the overall taste.
Pouring this filling into the pre-baked crust and allowing it to bake until set results in a cohesive dish that is both hearty and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
This Caramelized Onion and Bacon Tart is versatile enough to be served at various occasions. It can shine as a main dish during a cozy dinner or be sliced into smaller pieces for a delightful appetizer at a gathering.
Serving it warm or at room temperature allows the flavors to be appreciated fully, while the visual presentation on a rustic board adds charm to any table setting.
Consider pairing it with a simple salad or a glass of wine to elevate the experience further.
Nutritional Considerations
Each slice of this savory tart provides a satisfying balance of calories and nutrients, making it a comforting yet indulgent option.
With components like the buttery pastry, caramelized onions, and crispy bacon, this dish delivers both flavor and nourishment in a delightful package.
Whether enjoyed during a family meal or shared with friends, this tart promises a memorable culinary experience that resonates well with everyone.
Deliciously Easy Caramelized Onion and Bacon Tart
This Caramelized Onion and Bacon Tart features a flaky pastry crust enveloping a rich filling of caramelized onions and crispy bacon. The combination of sweet and savory creates a harmonious flavor profile, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust or pastry dough
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 6 strips of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère or cheddar) optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Add the chopped bacon and cook for an additional 5 minutes until crispy.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Stir in the caramelized onion and bacon mixture. If using, fold in the shredded cheese.
- Assemble the Tart: Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the filling is set and the top is golden.
- Serve: Allow the tart to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 24g