When cozy comfort meets elegant presentation, you get this Butternut Squash Caramelized Onion Tart. With golden, flaky puff pastry as the base, this tart layers on velvety roasted butternut squash and deeply caramelized onions for a savory-sweet bite that feels both rustic and refined. Whether you serve it as a festive appetizer, a vegetarian main, or a brunch centerpiece, it’s sure to impress.

What makes this tart a standout is the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The creamy squash, sweet onions, a hint of garlic, and thyme all nestle into buttery pastry, topped with a scattering of goat cheese or Parmesan (your choice). It’s versatile, seasonal, and surprisingly simple to prepare.

What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

Use a high-quality all-butter puff pastry if possible. It bakes up with the richest flavor and flakiest layers. Store-bought frozen puff pastry works beautifully—just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge and keep it cold until you’re ready to bake for the best puff.

Ingredients for the Butternut Squash Caramelized Onion Tart

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
4 oz goat cheese or ¼ cup grated Parmesan
1 egg (for egg wash, optional)

Butternut Squash Caramelized Onion Tart (1)

How To Make the Butternut Squash Caramelized Onion Tart

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and half the thyme. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized. Set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes until golden and soft. Add garlic and remaining thyme in the last 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Prepare the Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on parchment paper. Score a 1-inch border around the edge and prick the center with a fork. Transfer to a baking sheet.

Step 4: Assemble the Tart

Spread the caramelized onions evenly within the border, layer roasted squash on top, and sprinkle with goat cheese or Parmesan. Brush the edges of the pastry with a beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden. Let it cool slightly before slicing.

Serving and Storing the Tart

Serve the tart warm or at room temperature with a light salad or soup. It’s an excellent option for brunches, potlucks, or holiday tables. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen squash?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before roasting so it doesn’t get mushy.

What cheese substitutes work well?

Feta, blue cheese, or even shredded Gruyère work nicely if you want to mix it up.

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the onions and squash a day in advance and assemble right before baking.

Is this tart vegetarian?

Yes, as long as you use a vegetarian cheese.

Can I freeze the tart?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it after baking. Reheat in the oven from frozen until hot and crispy.

What wine pairs well with this tart?

Try a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir.

Want More Tart Ideas with a Savory Twist?

If you love this Butternut Squash Caramelized Onion Tart, you’ll definitely want to try:

Giant Zucchini Parmesan for a cheesy garden favorite.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta if you’re craving creamy decadence.
Shipwreck Dinner for a hearty, one-pan comfort meal.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts as a rich protein-packed pairing.
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables as a simple seasonal side.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap cheeses or add some heat with chili flakes? Maybe you added a drizzle of honey?

I love seeing your creations and tips. Share your thoughts and photos, or tag me on Pinterest: Nina Dishes for more seasonal bites and creative recipes.

Butternut Squash Caramelized Onion Tart

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A flaky puff pastry tart layered with sweet roasted butternut squash, golden caramelized onions, herbs, and a sprinkle of cheese. This vegetarian-friendly dish is perfect as a brunch centerpiece or a cozy dinner side.

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced

2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

4 oz goat cheese or ¼ cup grated Parmesan

1 egg (for egg wash, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and half the thyme. Roast on a baking sheet for 25–30 minutes until tender and golden.

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook onions over medium heat for about 30 minutes until caramelized. Add garlic and remaining thyme in the last 5 minutes. Season.

3. Roll out puff pastry on parchment paper. Score a 1-inch border around the edge and prick the center with a fork.

4. Transfer pastry to a baking sheet. Spread caramelized onions inside the border. Top with roasted squash and sprinkle with goat cheese or Parmesan.

5. Brush pastry edges with egg wash. Bake for 25–30 minutes until puffed and golden.

6. Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.