Savory Cheese Tart Recipe – Golden and Creamy Layers

Savory Cheese Tart Recipe – Crispy, Creamy, and Irresistible

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Introduction

When it comes to comfort food that feels both rustic and refined, few dishes can compete with a savory cheese tart. Golden, buttery shortcrust pastry meets a luscious cheese filling — soft on the inside, crisp on the outside, and bursting with flavor. This savory cheese tart recipe is a perfect choice for brunch, lunch, or as a show-stopping appetizer for your next dinner party. It’s simple to make, yet tastes like something straight out of a French bakery.

Ingredients

For the dough (shortcrust pastry):

  • 3 eggs

  • 60 ml (¼ cup) water

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 240 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the filling:

  • 130 g (1 cup) sharp cheese, grated (cheddar, pecorino, or your favorite aged cheese)

  • 160 g (1 cup) ricotta cheese

  • 160 ml (⅔ cup) melted butter

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry, halved

Preparation for savory cheese tart recipe

Savory Cheese Tart Recipe Preparation Steps
Preparing the savory cheese tart base with grated cheese and a smooth, rich filling before baking

  1. Prepare the dough:
    Beat the eggs with water and salt. Gradually add the flour and knead until you get a smooth, firm dough that is not sticky. Form it into a ball, divide it into 8 small pieces, roll them slightly, and let rest for about 1 hour. This resting time helps the dough relax, making it easier to roll thinly later.

  2. Roll and layer:
    Dust your work surface with flour and roll each piece of dough into a thin circle. Stack them, sprinkling flour between each layer to prevent sticking. Roll the entire stack together to form ultra-thin sheets, then separate them gently.

  3. Cook the sheets:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add a little vegetable oil, and blanch each sheet for about 1 minute. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice-cold water to stop the cooking and keep the dough elastic.

  4. Prepare the cheese filling:
    In a large bowl, mix together ricotta and grated cheese until you get a creamy texture. This combination provides both a rich flavor and a soft, smooth consistency once baked.

  5. Assemble the tart:
    Grease your baking pan with butter. Roll out one half of the puff pastry and use it to line the bottom and sides of the pan. Start layering: add a sheet of the cooked dough, brush generously with melted butter, and repeat for 3–4 layers. Spread half of the cheese filling over the top, then continue layering with more dough and butter until all the cheese mixture is used.

  6. Seal and bake:
    Cover the top with the remaining puff pastry sheet, folding and trimming the edges neatly. Brush the surface with the remaining melted butter to give it a golden shine. Bake at 190°C (375°F) for about 40 minutes, or until golden and slightly crisp on top.

  7. Cool and serve:
    Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set and makes for cleaner slices.

Tips for the Perfect Savory Cheese Tart

  • Cheese choice: Use a combination of mild and strong cheeses — ricotta for creaminess, and something sharper like aged cheddar or pecorino for depth.

  • Add herbs: Fresh thyme, parsley, or chives can elevate the aroma without overpowering the cheese flavor.

  • Make it vegetarian-friendly: You can add sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

  • Crispier crust: For a more rustic look, bake the tart on the lowest rack of your oven for the last 10 minutes to crisp the bottom.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this savory cheese tart warm with a side of green salad, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon. For brunch, cut it into small squares and serve it as finger food.

https://quickyyourrecipes.com/easy-strawberry-tart-recipe/

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tart in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes — it will regain its crispiness without drying out. Avoid microwaving as it softens the crust.

Savory Cheese Tart

Variations You’ll Love

  • Cheese and Spinach Tart: Add blanched spinach to the cheese filling for a greener, lighter version.

  • Caramelized Onion Tart: Mix sweet caramelized onions into the ricotta base for a flavor that’s both savory and slightly sweet.

  • Mini Cheese Tartlets: Use muffin tins to create individual portions — perfect for parties or picnics.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

(approx. 1 slice – serves 8)

  • Calories: 325 kcal

  • Protein: 11 g

  • Fat: 22 g

  • Carbohydrates: 20 g

  • Sugar: 1 g

  • Fiber: 1 g

Final Thoughts

This savory cheese tart recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly elegant. The contrast between the crisp golden crust and the creamy, cheesy interior is irresistible. Whether you serve it warm from the oven or at room temperature, it’s guaranteed to impress family and guests alike — a timeless recipe worth keeping in your kitchen repertoire.

BBC Good Food guide to cheese tarts https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/tart-recipes