Ingredients
Scale
- 3 large yellow onions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese
- 4 ounces grated Gruyère cheese
- 2 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or crème fraîche
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 1 box (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Caramelize the onions: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and butter. Add the sliced onions, seasoning them with salt and sugar. Cook slowly, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown (about 30-40 minutes). Add balsamic vinegar and thyme, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Slowly incorporate the Gruyère, Parmesan, egg, heavy cream, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Assemble the tarts: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crusts and fit them into tart pans. Fill each crust with the cheese mixture, then layer caramelized onions on top.
- Bake: Place tarts in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and garnish: Once baked, allow the tarts to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
Notes
You can substitute the cheeses or herbs according to your preference. Feel free to add proteins like cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tart
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 77mg
Keywords: caramelized onion, cheese tart, savory tart, vegetarian appetizer, French cuisine
