Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
These irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts combine the rich sweetness of slow-cooked onions with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese, all baked to golden, flaky perfection on a buttery puff pastry base. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or a savory snack, this recipe is simple to make with just a handful of quality ingredients.
- Author: Joe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 tarts 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking and Caramelizing
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Caramelized Onions
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced (yellow or sweet onions preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tarts
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed but still cold)
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- Extra fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook without stirring for about 5 minutes, then stir gently. Continue to cook, stirring every 5 minutes, for a total of 15 minutes until onions turn golden. Add balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme, then cook another 5 minutes until onions are soft, sweet, and jammy. If onions start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan.
- Assemble the Tarts: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut into 6 rectangles. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over each piece, leaving a small border around the edges. Crumble goat cheese generously over the onions. Sprinkle a little extra fresh thyme on top if desired.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled tarts on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until puff pastry is golden brown, risen, and cheese begins to brown in spots. Check every 2 minutes if baking beyond 15 minutes to avoid burning. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Pat caramelized onions with paper towels to remove excess moisture and prevent soggy pastry.
- Chill assembled tarts in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking for extra flaky layers.
- Use fresh thyme for best flavor; if using dried, rub between fingers before adding.
- Spread onions close to edges for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tart
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: caramelized onion tarts, goat cheese tarts, puff pastry appetizer, savory tarts, easy appetizer recipe, vegetarian tart