Name: Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pie crust or tart shell; 2 cups diced butternut squash; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (plus more for topping)

Sweet, savory, and deeply satisfying, this Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart is a celebration of fall flavors in a flaky, buttery crust. Perfectly caramelized onions swirl into creamy roasted butternut squash, topped with crumbled goat cheese and fresh herbs, delivering a dish that feels both rustic and elegant. Whether you’re planning a cozy brunch, a vegetarian-friendly holiday side, or a show-stopping appetizer, this tart hits all the right notes.

Its vibrant color and aroma make it irresistible before it even hits the plate. The combination of textures — crispy crust, silky squash, and tangy cheese — ensures that every bite is memorable. It’s comfort food that doubles as a conversation piece.

Why You’ll Love This Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart

Flavor Depth: Caramelized onions bring a rich, sweet note that balances the earthy butternut squash.
Versatile: Serve it warm or room temp; it works beautifully as a starter, side, or light main.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for prepping in advance — perfect for gatherings or meal planning.
Elegant Yet Easy: Looks like a gourmet bakery tart, but with simple steps and ingredients.
Vegetarian Delight: Packed with plant-based flavor without needing meat.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delicious layers, make sure your kitchen is stocked with the right tools to ensure success:

Tart Pan (with removable bottom): This gives your tart structure and helps with even baking. The removable bottom ensures you can lift it out cleanly without damaging the crust.
Mandoline or Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing onions thinly and evenly, which is key for uniform caramelization.
Sheet Pan: For roasting the butternut squash until it’s perfectly golden and tender.
Food Processor or Fork: If you want an extra smooth squash filling, a food processor works best; otherwise, a fork or masher will do.
Heavy Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: Ideal for slow-cooking the onions until they reach a golden brown.
Rolling Pin: If you’re using homemade crust, this helps roll it evenly to fit the tart pan.

Set yourself up with a clean workspace, preheat that oven, and let the aromatic magic begin.

Ingredients for the Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart

Butternut Squash – The creamy, earthy base of the filling. Roasted to enhance its sweetness and depth.
Yellow Onions – Slowly caramelized to bring a rich, savory sweetness that layers beautifully with the squash.
Olive Oil & Butter – Both add richness and help in caramelizing the onions perfectly.
Fresh Thyme – Adds an herbal, earthy aroma that ties the tart together.
Goat Cheese (or Feta) – A tangy contrast to the sweet onion and squash, adding creaminess and a burst of flavor.
Eggs – Helps bind the filling and adds a custardy texture.
Heavy Cream – Gives richness and a smooth consistency to the filling.
Pie Crust or Tart Shell – The crisp, flaky base that holds it all together. Homemade or store-bought works.
Salt & Pepper – Seasoning to balance and enhance all the flavors.

How To Make the Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Tart

Step 1: Roast the Squash

Peel and dice the butternut squash into small cubes. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

While the squash roasts, thinly slice the onions. Cook them slowly in a heavy skillet with olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Stir often and cook until deeply golden, about 30-40 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Let the roasted squash cool slightly, then mash or puree it in a food processor. Mix it with eggs, cream, a bit of goat cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir in some caramelized onions, reserving a few for topping.

Step 4: Assemble the Tart

Roll out your pie crust and press it into your tart pan. Pour in the squash mixture. Top with reserved onions and extra goat cheese. Sprinkle with thyme.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and edges are golden. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving and Storing This Tart

This tart is delicious on its own or served with a crisp green salad. It makes an elegant addition to a brunch buffet or a comforting vegetarian main dish. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven to retain the crust’s texture.

To freeze, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven until warmed through.