An Onion Tart Recipe is a timeless savory dish that combines caramelized onions, a buttery tart crust, and a rich custard filling. Originating from France, particularly Alsace and Lorraine, this tart is a cousin of the famous quiche but with onions as the star ingredient. The slow-cooked onions develop a sweet, golden flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base and flaky crust, making it a perfect dish for brunch, lunch, or even as an elegant appetizer for dinner parties.
Unlike pies that lean toward sweetness, an onion tart celebrates the depth and umami of onions whether you prefer yellow, white, red, or sweet onions. It’s rustic, comforting, and versatile, often served warm with a crisp green salad or paired with wine.
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Why You’ll Love This Onion Tart Recipe
- Elegant yet simple: Perfect for both family meals and entertaining.
- Make-ahead friendly: The tart can be baked in advance and reheated.
- Customizable: Works with caramelized onions, cheese, or even leeks.
- French classic: A nod to traditional European cooking.
Quick Recipe Information
- Prep time: 20 minutes (plus chilling dough)
- Cook time: 45–50 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
- Serving size: 6–8 slices
- Skill level: Beginner-friendly
Ingredients for Onion Tart
For the Tart Crust (Pâte Brisée or Shortcrust Pastry)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 3–4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 eggs + 1 egg yolk
- 1 cup heavy cream (or crème fraîche for a French touch)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg
- ½ cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional, for richness)
How to Make Onion Tart Step by Step
1. Prepare the Tart Crust
- Combine flour and salt, cut in the butter until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add ice water gradually until dough forms.
- Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out and fit into a tart pan. Blind-bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
2. Caramelize the Onions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet.
- Add sliced onions, cook low and slow (about 25–30 minutes) until golden and caramelized.
- Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, yolk, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
4. Assemble the Tart
- Spread caramelized onions evenly in the tart shell.
- Sprinkle with cheese if using.
- Pour custard mixture over onions.
5. Bake
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes until set and lightly golden on top.
- Cool slightly before slicing.
Variations of Onion Tart
- Alsatian Onion Tart (Tarte à l’Oignon): A French variation with lardons or bacon.
- Onion and Goat Cheese Tart: Creamy and tangy twist with chèvre.
- Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Tart: Adds earthy flavors for vegetarians.
- Mini Onion Tarts: Perfect for party appetizers.
- Gluten-Free Onion Tart: Use almond flour or gluten-free pastry crust.
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Expert Tips for the Best Onion Tart
- Always cook onions slowly to enhance their sweetness.
- Blind-bake the crust to prevent sogginess.
- Add a layer of Dijon mustard for a French-style flavor boost.
- Use Gruyère or Comté cheese for an authentic French touch.
- Let the tart rest for 10 minutes before slicing to set properly.
Perfect Pairings for Onion Tart
- Wine: Dry white wine such as Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay.
- Salad: Light arugula or mesclun salad with vinaigrette.
- Soup: Onion tart pairs beautifully with a simple vegetable or tomato soup.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture.
FAQs about Onion Tart Recipe
Q1. What type of onions are best for onion tart?
Yellow onions are most common for balance of sweetness and sharpness, but sweet onions create a milder flavor.
Q2. Can I make onion tart without cream?
Yes, substitute milk, half-and-half, or a lighter custard base.
Q3. Is onion tart the same as quiche?
Not exactly. Quiche typically includes a custard filling with cheese and other add-ins, while onion tart emphasizes the onion flavor more strongly.
Q4. Can I use puff pastry for onion tart recipe?
Yes, puff pastry makes a quicker, flakier base but may be less sturdy for larger slices.
Q5. How do I prevent soggy tart crust?
Blind-bake the crust, ensure onions aren’t too watery, and allow tart to cool slightly before slicing.
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Conclusion
An Onion Tart Recipe is an elegant yet approachable dish that elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary. With its caramelized onions, creamy custard, and flaky crust, this tart captures the heart of rustic French cooking while being versatile enough for modern kitchens. Whether served as brunch, a light lunch, or part of a festive spread, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
