Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of France with our easy-to-follow Tarte Flambee recipe. This traditional Alsatian dish, also known as Flammekueche, combines thin crusty dough with creamy cheese, savory bacon, and a touch of onions for a culinary experience that will transport you to the picturesque streets of Alsace.

overhead image of a tarte flambee cut into pieces

Why You'll Love This Savory Tart

Quick and Easy. Ready in no time, our Tarte Flambée recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings.
Versatile. Customize your toppings to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer classic bacon and onions or want to experiment with different cheeses and vegetables.
Crowd-Pleaser. With its irresistible combination of flavors, Tarte Flambée is sure to impress guests at any gathering.

With its crispy crust, creamy cheese, and savory toppings, Tarte Flambée is a delightful culinary adventure that is sure to impress. Whether enjoyed as a savory snack, appetizer, or main course, this Alsatian classic is bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

What Is A Tarte Flambee?

Tarte Flambée, also known as Flammekueche in Alsatian dialect or Flammkuchen in German, is a traditional dish hailing from the Alsace region of France and neighboring areas of Germany.

It is a type of thin-crust tart topped with creamy cheese, onions, and bacon, and it is typically baked in a wood-fired oven.

How Do You Eat Tarte Flambee?

Traditionally, Tarte Flambée is eaten with your hands, similar to pizza. However, if the toppings are particularly hot or messy, you can use a fork and knife to enjoy it.

Ingredients You'll Need

Thin Pizza Dough- Store-bought or homemade, rolled out thinly to achieve that perfect crispiness.
Crème Fraîche- Provides the creamy base for the tart.
Bacon- Crispy bacon adds a savory flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess of the crème fraîche.
Onions- Thinly sliced onions add a hint of sweetness and depth of flavor.
Gruyère Cheese- Sprinkled generously over the tart for a rich and nutty taste.
Salt and Pepper- To season the toppings to perfection.

How To Make Tarte Flambee

Preheat the Oven. Preheat your oven to 475°F and place a baking stone or sheet pan inside to heat up.
Prepare the Dough. Roll out the pizza dough thinly on a piece of parchment paper.
Assemble the Tart. Spread a layer of crème fraîche evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Top with crispy bacon and thinly sliced onions. Season with salt and pepper.
Bake to Perfection. Carefully transfer the tart, still on the parchment paper, onto the preheated baking stone or sheet pan in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy. Remove from the oven, sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese, and serve hot. Slice into squares or wedges and enjoy!

A tarte flambee cut into pieces on a wooden table

Tips And Tricks

Making Tarte Flambée, also known as Flammekueche, is a delightful culinary adventure that combines simple ingredients to create a delicious Alsatian treat. Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve perfection:

Preheat Your Oven and Baking Surface. Preheat your oven and baking surface, such as a pizza stone or baking sheet, before placing the Tarte Flambée inside. This helps create a hot environment that encourages a crisp crust and even cooking.
Prick the Dough. Before adding toppings, prick the dough with a fork to prevent large air bubbles from forming during baking. This step ensures a flat surface for the toppings and helps the dough cook evenly.
Use Quality Ingredients. Choose high-quality ingredients for the toppings, such as crème fraîche, onions, bacon, and Gruyère cheese. Fresh ingredients contribute to the authentic flavor and texture of the Tarte Flambée.

Variations

Tarte Flambée, also known as Flammekueche, is a versatile dish that lends itself well to various flavor combinations. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Vegetarian- Skip the meat and load up your Tarte Flambée with an array of colorful vegetables. Thinly sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, caramelized onions, and fresh herbs like thyme or basil create a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option.
Seafood-For a taste of the sea, top your Tarte Flambée with seafood delights like smoked salmon, shrimp, scallops, or crab meat. Add a dollop of crème fraîche and sprinkle with dill or chives for a refreshing and elegant twist.
Tartiflette-Inspired- Take inspiration from the classic French dish Tartiflette and layer your Tarte Flambée with thinly sliced potatoes, crispy bacon or pancetta, caramelized onions, and melted Reblochon or Gruyère cheese. The combination of hearty potatoes and savory cheese is sure to be a hit.

What To Serve With Tarte Flambee

Tarte Flambée, with its savory toppings and crispy crust, pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that complement its flavors and textures. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside it:

Salad- A light, refreshing salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette adds a burst of freshness to contrast the richness of the Tarte Flambée. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a tangy vinaigrette with Dijon mustard.
Pickles- Tangy pickles, such as cornichons or pickled onions, provide a zesty counterpoint to the creamy crème fraîche and smoky bacon on the Tarte Flambée. They add brightness and acidity to each bite.
Roasted Vegetables- Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, bell peppers, or mushrooms, make a hearty and flavorful side dish that complements the Tarte Flambée. Their caramelized flavors enhance the overall meal.

How Long Does It Last?

Tarte Flambée is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the crust is crispy and the cheese is melty.

However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Can You Freeze It?

Tarte Flambée can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without significant loss of quality. However, for the best taste and texture, it's recommended to consume them within this timeframe.

Beyond 3 months, the Tarte Flambée may start to develop freezer burn or lose some of its original flavor and texture.

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