This onion cottage cheese tart is a delightful savory pie with a creamy cottage cheese filling and topped with caramelized pearl onions. Its mild flavor makes it a great appetizer or a light lunch, perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian tart combines the rich, creamy texture of cottage cheese with the delicate sweetness of pearl onions. It's an easy-to-make dish that is both comforting and flavorful, with a buttery shortcrust base that adds a satisfying crunch. It’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer. The best part? It’s versatile and can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
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1 pie crust
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250 g cottage cheese
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50 g grated parmigiano
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1 egg
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3-4 pearl onions
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⅓ teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoon olive oil
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black pepper
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Press the pie crust into a tart pan, pricking the bottom and sides with a fork. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 10 minutes.
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While the crust bakes, whisk the egg in a mixing bowl and add the cottage cheese, parmigiano, and salt. Mix until smooth.
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Peel and thinly slice the pearl onions. Lightly brush the sliced onions with olive oil.
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Once the crust is pre-baked, pour the cheese and egg mixture into the tart shell, spreading it evenly.
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Arrange the sliced onions over the cheese mixture, oiled side up. Sprinkle with black pepper.
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Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes at 200°C (390°F), or until golden and set.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cook time: 35 minutes
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Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
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Swap pearl onions for shallots for a milder flavor.
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Add herbs such as thyme or rosemary for extra fragrance.
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For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pie crust.
Storage/Reheating
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Reheat in the oven at 120°C (250°F) for 15 minutes to restore the crispiness of the crust. Alternatively, you can microwave it, though the crust may become softer.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes, a store-bought crust works perfectly for this recipe.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese for a different flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
No, this recipe contains dairy and eggs. For a vegan version, you would need to substitute the cheese and egg with plant-based alternatives.
Can I prepare the tart in advance?
Yes, you can make the tart ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it when ready to serve.
How long does the tart last in the fridge?
The tart will keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Can I freeze this tart?
It’s not recommended to freeze this tart, as the crust may become soggy upon reheating.
Can I use red onions instead of pearl onions?
Yes, red onions can be used, though they will offer a slightly stronger flavor.
Can I make the crust from scratch?
Yes, you can make your own shortcrust pastry if preferred. It’s quick and easy to prepare!
Can I add vegetables to this tart?
Yes, feel free to add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more flavor and texture.
Is this dish suitable for a dinner party?
Absolutely! It makes a great starter or side dish at dinner parties.
Conclusion
This onion cottage cheese tart is a savory and satisfying dish, perfect for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Whether served warm for dinner or cold as an appetizer, it’s sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this tart is a wonderful addition to any meal!

Onion Cottage Cheese Tart (Vegetarian)
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Onion Cottage Cheese Tart is a savory vegetarian delight, combining a creamy cottage cheese filling with caramelized pearl onions, all encased in a buttery shortcrust base. Perfect as a light lunch, dinner, or appetizer, this tart is simple to prepare, yet impressive in flavor. The mild sweetness of the onions complements the rich, creamy cheese filling, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold. Ideal for meal prep, parties, or as a comforting weeknight meal!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
1 pie crust
250 g cottage cheese
50 g grated parmigiano
1 egg
3-4 pearl onions
⅓ tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions:
-
Press the pie crust into a tart pan, pricking the bottom and sides with a fork. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 10 minutes.
-
While the crust bakes, whisk the egg in a mixing bowl and add the cottage cheese, parmigiano, and salt. Mix until smooth.
-
Peel and thinly slice the pearl onions. Lightly brush the sliced onions with olive oil.
-
Once the crust is pre-baked, pour the cheese and egg mixture into the tart shell, spreading it evenly.
-
Arrange the sliced onions over the cheese mixture, oiled side up. Sprinkle with black pepper.
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Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes at 200°C (390°F), or until golden and set.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pie crust.
- Add herbs such as thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor.
- Swap pearl onions for shallots for a milder taste.
- You can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese for different textures and flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European