This quiche-like Savory Italian Tart is filled with Italian sausage, tomatoes, eggs and cheese, all on top of a puff pastry crust. Perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner!
Savory Italian Tart: The Ultimate Puff Pastry Recipe with Italian Sausage and Tomatoes
Discover an easy-to-make, flavorful Savory Italian Tart – a quiche-like delight perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This article offers an enhanced version of a beloved recipe, originally shared in October 2007 and featuring updated photos from June 2014.
There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from creating a dish versatile enough to grace any meal of the day. Our Savory Italian Tart is precisely that culinary marvel. Imagine a flaky, golden puff pastry crust cradling a hearty, rich filling of zesty Italian sausage, sun-ripened tomatoes, and a creamy, cheesy egg mixture. It’s a truly satisfying dish that, while tasting gourmet, is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend brunches.
The journey to discovering truly great recipes often leads down unexpected paths. While many food enthusiasts meticulously pore over celebrated cookbooks or scour popular food blogs for inspiration, sometimes the most cherished culinary finds emerge from the simplest of sources. This particular Italian tart recipe is a prime example, having originated from the most unlikely of places: the packaging of a tart pan!
This delightful origin story adds a charming layer to a recipe that has become a consistent favorite. It underscores the idea that deliciousness doesn’t always require an elaborate pedigree. This humble recipe quickly proved itself to be not only quick and straightforward to assemble but also incredibly flavorful. It was especially a blessing during those peak summer months when the garden generously yielded an abundance of fresh, ripe tomatoes, offering a perfect way to showcase their vibrant taste.
Why This Savory Italian Tart Will Become Your New Favorite
Often described as a more substantial cousin to the classic quiche, this Savory Italian Tart offers a hearty alternative that doesn’t compromise on elegance or flavor. While traditional quiches often feature a delicate custard in a shortcrust, our Italian version elevates the experience with the light, airy crispness of puff pastry and a more robust, flavor-packed filling. It’s a dish that truly stands out, providing a satisfying meal no matter the occasion.
Its inherent versatility is one of its greatest strengths. Serve it warm straight from the oven, or enjoy it at room temperature – both delicious options, making it perfect for anything from a casual picnic to a sophisticated brunch spread. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes and basil against the golden crust make it visually appealing, promising a delightful culinary journey before the first bite is even taken.
From Tart Pan to Table: The Recipe’s Unexpected Beginning
The tale of this Savory Italian Tart is a charming anecdote in our cooking adventures. It wasn’t a family heirloom, nor was it meticulously developed by a professional chef. Instead, this fantastic recipe was thoughtfully printed on the cardboard packaging of a new tart pan. Who could have predicted that such an unassuming source would become the origin of such a culinary gem?
Holding onto that piece of cardboard proved to be a stroke of kitchen genius. When the time finally came to give the recipe a try, the results were nothing short of spectacular. It was an effortless creation that delivered an incredibly delicious outcome. The recipe became particularly cherished during seasons when our home garden generously provided an abundance of fresh, ripe tomatoes, offering a wonderful way to incorporate them into a satisfying meal. We are delighted to give credit where credit is due, acknowledging Wilton, the tart pan manufacturer, for inspiring this now beloved family favorite.
The Essential Ingredients for an Unforgettable Flavor Profile
The magic of this Savory Italian Tart lies in the careful selection and combination of its ingredients. Each component contributes to a balanced, deeply flavorful, and comforting experience.
Puff Pastry: The Secret to a Flaky Crust
The foundation of our tart is refrigerated puff pastry dough. This ingredient is a true kitchen hero, allowing for a remarkably quick preparation without sacrificing quality. Its inherently buttery, multi-layered texture bakes up into a gorgeously flaky and crisp crust that perfectly complements the rich filling. While traditional pie crusts have their place, puff pastry adds an extra touch of elegance and lightness that truly elevates this dish. Properly blind-baking the puff pastry ensures it remains crisp and golden, providing a sturdy base for the hearty filling.
Italian Sausage: The Hearty and Flavorful Core
The star of the savory filling is undoubtedly the Italian sausage. For this recipe, we recommend using Italian sausage links with their casings removed. This allows you to easily crumble and brown the meat, ensuring it’s fully cooked and infused with a rich, savory depth. Depending on your preference, you can opt for mild Italian sausage for a gentle flavor or hot Italian sausage if you desire a kick of spice. Thoroughly browning the sausage is key to unlocking its full flavor potential and contributing to the tart’s overall robust taste.
Fresh Tomatoes: A Burst of Color and Zest
Diced large tomatoes provide a crucial element of freshness and a delightful tang that perfectly balances the richness of the sausage and cheese. When garden tomatoes are in season, their vibrant, sweet, and slightly acidic flavor is simply unbeatable. If fresh, ripe tomatoes are not readily available, high-quality canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute; just be sure to drain them exceptionally well to avoid excess moisture in your tart.
The Creamy Egg and Cheese Medley
The luxurious, creamy texture of the tart comes from a simple yet effective mixture of whisked eggs, rich heavy cream, and a splash of milk. This blend creates a custardy base that beautifully binds all the savory ingredients together as it bakes. The cheese selection is also key: shredded Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, salty, and umami depth, while shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully, contributing a classic savory and slightly tangy note. These cheeses, combined with aromatic fresh basil and pungent minced garlic, are what truly define the “Italian” character of this savory tart.
Crafting Your Savory Italian Tart: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this delicious Savory Italian Tart is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect, mouth-watering result every time.
1. Preparing the Perfect Puff Pastry Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). On a lightly floured surface, gently unroll and roll out your refrigerated puff pastry dough into a circle approximately 13 inches in diameter. Carefully press the dough into an 11-inch tart pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and extends up the sides. To prevent the crust from puffing excessively during the initial bake, place a piece of aluminum foil (sprayed with nonstick cooking spray) directly over the dough, then fill it with dried beans or ceramic pie weights. Bake this blind-baked crust for 8-10 minutes, or until it achieves a light golden hue. This crucial step ensures a wonderfully crisp base that won’t become soggy from the filling. Once baked, carefully remove the foil and weights.
2. Cooking the Flavorful Italian Sausage
While your puff pastry is blind-baking, begin preparing the savory filling. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage (with casings discarded) over moderately high heat. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the sausage into small, even crumbles as it cooks. Continue browning the sausage for approximately 7 minutes, or until it is no longer pink and has developed a rich, golden-brown color. Once cooked, it’s essential to drain off any excess fat thoroughly; this prevents your tart from becoming greasy. Transfer the browned sausage to a large mixing bowl.
3. Assembling the Delightful Tart Mixture
To the bowl containing the cooked Italian sausage, add your finely diced fresh tomatoes, minced garlic, freshly chopped basil, a generous pinch of black pepper, salt, and both the shredded Parmesan and cheddar cheeses. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure a balanced distribution of flavors throughout the filling. In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour this creamy egg mixture over the sausage and tomato mixture, stirring gently until all ingredients are fully incorporated and evenly coated. This creates a rich and cohesive filling that will set beautifully.
4. Baking for Golden-Brown Perfection
Once your puff pastry crust is par-baked and ready, carefully pour the prepared filling into the golden shell. Return the tart to the preheated oven and bake for an initial 15 minutes at 425ºF (220ºC). After this period, reduce the oven temperature to 350ºF (175ºC) and continue baking for another 10-12 minutes, or until the egg mixture is completely set and the top of the tart is beautifully golden brown. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the tart is ready. Remove the Savory Italian Tart from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before attempting to slice and serve. This resting period is important as it allows the filling to firm up, resulting in cleaner, more appealing slices.
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
The versatility of this Savory Italian Tart makes it a fantastic choice for any meal. For a hearty breakfast or a leisurely brunch, serve a slice alongside a refreshing fruit salad or a simple, lightly dressed green salad. Its robust flavors and satisfying texture make it a complete morning meal.
For lunch, a generous slice of the tart paired with a crisp arugula salad, tossed with a light balsamic vinaigrette, creates an elegant and filling mid-day meal. When it comes to dinner, consider complementing the tart’s rich, savory notes with a side of steamed asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a fresh Caprese salad. To elevate your dining experience, pair this Italian tart with a light-bodied red wine, such as a Sangiovese or a young Chianti, or opt for a crisp white wine like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Tips for Success and Creative Customization
To ensure your Savory Italian Tart consistently turns out perfectly, and to inspire your own culinary creativity, consider these helpful tips:
- Preventing a Soggy Crust: While the tart is best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispness, a thorough blind bake of the puff pastry is your best defense against a soggy bottom. Ensure it’s golden and firm before adding the filling.
- Make-Ahead Strategy: To save time, you can prepare the cooked sausage and tomato mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. On the day of serving, simply whisk the egg and cream mixture, combine with the pre-made filling, and bake in a freshly prepared crust.
- Add More Vegetables: This tart is highly adaptable. Feel free to incorporate other finely diced vegetables such as bell peppers, sautéed spinach (ensuring it’s squeezed dry to remove excess water), or sliced mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor complexity.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Don’t be afraid to play with your cheese selection. Swapping or adding provolone, mozzarella, or even a touch of smoked gouda can introduce exciting new dimensions to the flavor profile.
- Herb Enhancements: A sprinkle of fresh oregano, a pinch of dried Italian seasoning, or even a hint of red pepper flakes can further amplify the Italian character and provide an extra layer of warmth.
Storage and Reheating Recommendations
As mentioned, the unique texture of puff pastry means this tart is at its absolute best when enjoyed fresh, shortly after cooling. Over time, the crust will naturally absorb moisture from the filling and lose some of its initial crispness. However, rest assured, the savory filling remains incredibly delicious even if the crust softens.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, the best method to revive some crispness in the crust is to place individual slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly heated. While microwaving is a quicker option, it will unfortunately lead to an even softer crust, so it’s generally not recommended if you prefer a bit of crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Savory Tarts
- Can I use a different crust for this tart?
- While puff pastry provides a unique flakiness that beautifully complements this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other crusts. A standard shortcrust pastry or even a gluten-free pie crust could work. Remember to adjust baking times as needed, as thicker or different types of crusts may require more or less time to bake through.
- Is this tart suitable for vegetarians?
- The recipe as written includes Italian sausage. However, it’s very easy to adapt for vegetarians! Simply replace the sausage with a hearty blend of sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or even a plant-based sausage alternative. Ensure any vegetable additions are well-cooked and thoroughly drained to prevent a watery filling.
- Can I freeze this Savory Italian Tart?
- Freezing a fully baked tart with a puff pastry crust is generally not recommended, as the pastry can become very soggy and lose its desirable texture upon thawing. For best results, if you wish to prepare ahead, consider freezing the cooked sausage and tomato mixture separately. Then, thaw the filling and assemble with a fresh, blind-baked puff pastry crust just before you plan to bake and serve.
- What if my tomatoes are very watery?
- If you find yourself with particularly juicy fresh tomatoes or are using canned tomatoes, it’s crucial to address their moisture content. Deseed your fresh tomatoes and dice them, then place them in a colander and lightly salt them. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess liquid, then pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels before adding them to the filling mixture. For canned tomatoes, ensure they are well-drained. Too much moisture can lead to a watery filling that struggles to set.
Conclusion: Your Next Culinary Adventure Awaits!
This Savory Italian Tart, a wonderful recipe with an endearing origin story, has consistently delivered on its promise of flavor and ease. It masterfully blends the comforting, robust tastes of Italian cuisine with the delightful simplicity of a puff pastry crust. The result is a dish that’s both effortlessly impressive and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re seeking a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a unique and delicious dinner option, this tart is sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection. We wholeheartedly encourage you to try this amazing blend of sausage, tomatoes, eggs, and cheese – it’s a culinary experience you won’t want to miss!
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Ingredients
- 1 package 8 oz. refrigerated puff pastry dough
- 1 lb Italian sausage links casings discarded
- 2 large tomatoes diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425ºF (220ºC).
- Roll puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a circle approximately 13 inches wide. Gently press dough into an 11-inch tart pan. Place a piece of foil sprayed with nonstick cooking spray over the dough and fill with dried beans or pie weights. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden. Remove weights and foil.
- Meanwhile, cook Italian sausage (casings discarded) in a large skillet over moderately high heat, breaking it up as it cooks, until the sausage is no longer pink and well-browned, about 7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat well. Transfer sausage to a large bowl and add the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, black pepper, salt, and both the shredded Parmesan and cheddar cheeses. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, heavy cream, and milk together until thoroughly combined. Pour this egg mixture into the sausage and tomato mixture; mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Pour the prepared filling into the pre-baked puff pastry shell. Bake for an additional 15 minutes at 425ºF (220ºC). After 15 minutes, reduce oven temperature to 350ºF (175ºC). Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the egg mixture is set (a knife inserted into the center comes out clean) and the top is golden brown. Remove from oven; cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.