Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

Savory and sweet collide in the delicious Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage. This dish shines as a versatile centerpiece for brunch, appetizers, or a cozy dinner. Its flaky pastry, creamy filling, and aromatic herbs create a comforting yet sophisticated experience. Perfect for gatherings or quiet nights at home, this tart promises to impress with its delightful combination of flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The mix of pumpkin, ricotta, and caramelized onions creates a rich and satisfying taste that you’ll crave.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm or at room temperature for any occasion—brunches, dinners, or holiday gatherings.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this tart is accessible even for novice cooks.
• Aromatic Finish: Fresh sage adds an incredible fragrance that elevates the overall dish while providing depth to every bite.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from ricotta and Turkey Bacon, this tart offers a wholesome meal option.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage requires minimal tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for cooking Turkey Bacon and caramelizing onions evenly without burning them.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ricotta cheese and pumpkin purée smoothly.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out puff pastry to achieve an even thickness for the tart base.

Ingredients

To create this delicious tart, gather the following ingredients:

For the Filling

• 6 slices Turkey Bacon, chopped
• 4 sweet onions, thinly sliced
• Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup apple cider
• 1½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1⅓ cups pumpkin purée
• 2 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese
• 2 handfuls fresh sage leaves
• 2 large eggs + 2 tsp water (for egg wash)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

For the Pastry Base

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed

How to Make Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

Step 1: Cook Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the chopped Turkey Bacon until it becomes crisp. Remove it from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess fat.

Step 2: Caramelize Onions

In the same skillet with some of the rendered fat from the Turkey Bacon:
1. Add thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper.
2. Cook over medium-low heat for about 25–30 minutes until they are deeply golden and soft.
3. Pour in apple cider and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 3: Prep Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface:
1. Roll out each sheet of puff pastry slightly to ensure even thickness.
2. Place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
3. Score a 1-inch border around the edges using a knife.
4. Prick the center with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 4: Make Filling

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine ricotta cheese and pumpkin purée with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Spread this mixture evenly within the scored borders of each pastry sheet.
3. Top it with caramelized onions, shredded mozzarella cheese, and crumbled Turkey Bacon.

Step 5: Add Sage & Bake

Sprinkle fresh sage leaves over the top of your tart:
1. Brush the edges of the pastry with egg wash made from whisking together eggs with water.
2. Bake in preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.

Step 6: Finish

Once baked:
1. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot tart before serving.
2. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

Serving your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

For a Cozy Brunch

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich tart wonderfully.
• Fresh Fruit Platter: Seasonal fruits add a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the tart.

As an Elegant Appetizer

• Mini Quiche Bites: Offer a variety of mini quiches for guests to enjoy alongside the tart.
• Cheese Board: Include assorted cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits to create a beautiful cheese board that pairs well with your dish.

For a Family Dinner

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables provide a colorful and nutritious side that rounds out the meal.
• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread can be a comforting addition that complements the creamy filling of the tart.

How to Perfect Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

Perfecting your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart requires attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh ricotta and seasonal pumpkin enhances flavor and texture.
• Monitor Onion Cooking Time: Take your time caramelizing onions for the best sweetness; rushing this step can lead to less flavor.
• Use Cold Puff Pastry: Keeping the puff pastry cold helps it achieve maximum flakiness when baked.
• Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing edges with egg wash gives the pastry a beautiful golden color and shine.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix in other herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
• Allow to Cool Slightly Before Serving: This helps set the filling and makes slicing easier without losing shape.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart can enhance its deliciousness. Here are some fantastic ideas.

1. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until crispy, they add texture and pair nicely with the creamy tart.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and lemon dressing offers freshness next to rich flavors.
3. Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of butternut squash soup provides warmth and comfort alongside the tart.
4. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs adds a lightness that balances the richness of the main dish.
5. Spinach Salad: A spinach salad topped with nuts and berries offers a pop of color and nutrition on the plate.
6. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: Sweet potato wedges seasoned lightly create a delightful contrast to savory elements in the tart.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Onions: Caramelizing onions requires patience. If cooked too fast or at too high a temperature, they can burn instead of caramelize. Aim for medium-low heat and stir occasionally.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: An egg wash gives your pastry a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step; brush the edges of the pastry before baking to achieve that perfect finish.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your ricotta and pumpkin purée are at room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients can cause the filling to be unevenly textured.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Be generous with salt and pepper in every layer, from the onions to the filling. Taste along the way to ensure balanced flavors.
• Ignoring Puff Pastry Instructions: Each brand may have different instructions for thawing and baking puff pastry. Follow the package guidelines closely for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

• Freeze individual slices or whole tart in freezer-safe containers.
• Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tart on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat slices in 30-second intervals until warm, but be cautious as this may make the crust less crispy.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage?

This tart is delightful served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal.

Can I customize the filling of this tart?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or swap out turkey bacon for chicken or beef if preferred.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can easily omit turkey bacon or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes! Roast fresh pumpkin until tender and blend it into a smooth purée for an even fresher taste.

What makes this tart special during fall?

The combination of pumpkin and sage highlights classic autumn flavors, making it an ideal centerpiece for seasonal gatherings.

Final Thoughts

The Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage offers a delicious blend of savory and sweet flavors that suits any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making it perfect for brunches, dinners, or cozy gatherings. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!