Chef Mitchell preparing Savory Bacon Onion Tart
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Savory Bacon Onion Tart while traveling in France, where tarts are a staple in many cafés. After perfecting the recipe, I've enjoyed making it for family and friends. The balance of smoky bacon and sweet onions is something everyone loves. It’s become a go-to for lunch gatherings and special occasions."

With over a decade of experience in French cuisine, I've developed a passion for creating accessible yet authentic recipes. My focus is on lunch recipes that celebrate flavor and simplicity. I love sharing my culinary expertise through approachable dishes like this tart.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Savory Bacon Onion Tart served on a plate

Why This Savory Bacon Onion Tart Recipe Works

This Savory Bacon Onion Tart brings together the classic combination of sweet onions and salty bacon, perfectly balanced in a flaky crust. The caramelization of the onions enhances their natural sweetness, while the richness of the bacon adds depth. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor, making it a favorite among all who try it.

The technique of slowly caramelizing the onions is key to achieving the perfect flavor profile. This method ensures that the onions become tender and sweet, complementing the savory notes of the bacon. The tart's texture also plays a role, with a crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, ensure that your pie crust is cold before filling it. This helps to achieve a flaky texture. Additionally, let the tart cool slightly before slicing to ensure clean cuts. Experimenting with different cheeses can also add a unique twist to the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the tart in advance. Assemble the tart, but do not bake it. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it directly from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a similar savory flavor. Alternatively, turkey bacon or pancetta can also work well if you want a different type of meat.

The tart is done when the filling is set and the top is golden brown. You can check the center with a toothpick; it should come out clean. Additionally, the edges of the crust should be a deep golden color.

Yes, you can freeze the tart before baking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When you're ready to bake, bake it straight from the freezer, allowing extra time for cooking.

This tart pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup for a heartier meal. A glass of white wine complements the flavors perfectly.

The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or in the oven for best results.

Absolutely! You can prepare the tart up to a day ahead of time. Just bake it, let it cool, and then refrigerate it. Reheat it in the oven before serving to restore its crispiness. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining.

To reheat the tart, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tart on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from browning too much. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the tart comes out dry, it may be due to overcooking the filling.

Solution: Reduce the baking time slightly next time, as ovens can vary in temperature. You can also add a bit more cream to the filling mixture for added moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: A tart that is not crispy enough can result from a soggy crust.

Solution: Ensure that your crust is pre-baked for a few minutes before adding the filling. This will help to set the crust and prevent it from becoming soggy.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the tart is overcooked, it may appear too dark on the edges.

Prevention: Cover the edges with foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent further browning. Always keep an eye on the tart as it bakes to achieve perfect doneness.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center can occur if the tart is removed from the oven too soon.

Recovery: If this happens, return the tart to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Check for doneness frequently to avoid overcooking.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior may result from cooking at too high a temperature.

Prevention: Ensure the oven temperature is accurate using an oven thermometer. Adjust the temperature if necessary and keep an eye on the tart as it bakes.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the tart is too sweet, it may be due to overly caramelized onions.

Too Salty: If it’s too salty, reduce the amount of bacon or cheese next time.

Bland: To fix a bland tart, add more seasoning such as fresh herbs or spices before baking.

Fresh ingredients for Savory Bacon Onion Tart

Essential Ingredients for Savory Bacon Onion Tart

Key ingredients for this tart include high-quality bacon and fresh onions. The flavor of the bacon is essential as it adds the savory depth to the dish, while the onions must be sweet and well-caramelized to balance the flavors. Using fresh ingredients will enhance the overall taste and texture.

When selecting cheese, opt for a good quality Gruyere or a similar cheese that melts well. The combination of flavors from these ingredients creates a rich and satisfying tart that everyone will enjoy. Always aim for the freshest ingredients for the best results.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for a heartier texture and flavor. Cooking it until crispy will ensure it adds the right crunch to the tart. Avoid overly processed bacon for the best taste.
  • Onions: Use sweet onions such as Vidalia or Walla Walla for the best results. Caramelizing them slowly allows their natural sweetness to develop, creating a rich flavor that enhances the tart.
  • Cheese: Opt for a good-quality Gruyere cheese, as its nutty flavor complements the bacon and onions perfectly. Shredded cheese will melt more evenly, giving you that delightful gooey texture on top.
Cooking process for Savory Bacon Onion Tart

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking method for this tart involves a few essential steps that ensure a delicious outcome. The key is to caramelize the onions slowly to bring out their sweetness while cooking the bacon until it's crispy. These steps set the foundation for the flavor profile of the tart.

Achieving perfect results requires attention to detail, especially when baking. Monitoring the tart's progress in the oven will prevent overcooking and ensure a beautifully golden crust. Following the instructions closely will help you master this dish.

Key Technique for Perfect Savory Bacon Onion Tart

The most important technique for this recipe is the caramelization of the onions. Cooking them low and slow allows their natural sugars to develop, resulting in a sweet and flavorful base for the tart. This step is crucial for balancing the richness of the bacon and the creaminess of the filling.

Savory Bacon Onion Tart

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For a creamy filling
  • 4 large eggs
    To bind the tart

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb bacon, diced
    Cook until crispy
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
    Caramelize for sweetness
  • 1 pre-made pie crust
    For the base
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
    For melting on top
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    For cooking onions
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
    For flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    For a tangy note

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Cook Bacon

    In a skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy, then remove and drain on paper towels.

  3. Caramelize Onions

    In the same skillet, add olive oil and sliced onions. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until onions are caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.

  4. Prepare Tart Shell

    Place the pie crust into a tart pan, pressing it evenly against the sides.

  5. Mix Filling

    In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, garlic powder, mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.

  6. Combine Ingredients

    Spread the caramelized onions and crispy bacon evenly over the pie crust, then pour the egg mixture on top. Sprinkle with Gruyere cheese.

  7. Bake Tart

    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.

  8. Cool and Serve

    Let the tart cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

For optimal freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The tart can last for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the tart warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a light salad or roasted vegetables. A dollop of crème fraîche on the side can add an extra layer of richness. Pair with a crisp white wine for a delightful dining experience.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients! You can add sautéed mushrooms for an earthier flavor, or spinach for added greens. For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. The possibilities are endless!