Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata

Part pie, part tart, the Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors in a rustic presentation. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner, this crostata showcases the savory goodness of caramelized onions and mushrooms combined with creamy Cooper® cheese. Its simple preparation using a refrigerated pie crust makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip this crostata up in no time.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of caramelized onions, mushrooms, and Cooper® cheese creates an irresistible flavor explosion.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or main course; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Rustic Presentation: The crostata’s open-faced design offers a charming, homemade look that impresses guests.
• Comfort Food Classic: Ideal for warming up on chilly evenings or as part of your holiday spread.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata efficiently, having the right tools is crucial. Below are essential items you’ll need to gather before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sauté pan
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Sauté pan: Ensures even cooking and allows you to caramelize onions perfectly.
• Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking the crostata evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata:

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 large onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1/4 cup beef stock
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, divided
• 5 ounces Cooper® Sharp White cheese, diced

For the Crust

• 1 refrigerated (rolled) pie crust, at room temperature
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon water

How to Make Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata

Step 1: Sauté Onions

In a large sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions, season with salt and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally until they start to caramelize—this should take about 20-25 minutes.

Step 2: Add Mushrooms

Once the onions are golden brown, stir in the baby bella mushrooms. Continue sautéing until they become deep golden brown.

Step 3: Thicken Mixture

Sprinkle flour over the onion and mushroom mixture. Stir well to combine everything. Cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Add Stock & Thyme

Pour in the beef stock along with 1 teaspoon of thyme. Stir until the mixture simmers and thickens slightly.

Step 5: Mix in Cheese

Turn off the heat and mix about 3/4 of the diced Cooper® cheese into the mixture. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 7: Prepare Pie Crust

Unroll your refrigerated pie crust onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 8: Assemble Crostata

Heap the cooled onion mixture in the center of the crust. Fold edges up and over it, leaving the center open. Pleat crust every 1-2 inches around.

Step 9: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle remaining diced Cooper® cheese over the open center section.

Step 10: Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat one egg with 1 teaspoon of water. Brush this mixture over the outer pastry edges for a golden finish.

Step 11: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 24-26 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 12: Cool & Serve

Garnish with remaining thyme leaves. Let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata!

How to Serve Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata

Serving your Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata can elevate any meal. This dish pairs well with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the crostata’s richness.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, add a delicious contrast in texture and flavor.

Accompany with a Creamy Soup

• A bowl of creamy tomato or butternut squash soup makes for a comforting pairing that balances the savory crostata.

Offer with a Selection of Dips

• Include dips like hummus or tzatziki on the table for guests to enjoy alongside the crostata, providing extra flavor options.

Include a Cheese Board

• A cheese board featuring various cheeses, nuts, and fruits can create an appealing spread to accompany the crostata.

How to Perfect Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata

Achieving the perfect Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata involves attention to detail in preparation. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and mushrooms significantly enhance the flavor profile of your crostata.
• Caramelize onions slowly: Take your time when caramelizing onions for maximum sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Avoid overfilling: Ensure you don’t overload the crust with filling; this helps it bake evenly and remain crispy.
• Let it cool slightly: Allowing the crostata to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving helps it set, making it easier to slice.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding different herbs like rosemary or parsley for unique flavor variations.
• Adjust cooking time as needed: Keep an eye on the crust’s color; if it browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.

Best Side Dishes for Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata

Complementing your Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with savory flavors.
2. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds brightness to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, bell peppers, and herbs brings a nutritious crunch next to the crostata.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory crostata.
5. Brussels Sprouts Slaw – Shredded Brussels sprouts tossed in a tangy dressing create an exciting texture contrast.
6. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs offers a light yet flavorful accompaniment to complement the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a delicious result.

• Bold seasoning – Not seasoning the onions properly can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper during cooking.
• Bold overcooking – Overcooking the onions will make them bitter. Aim for a golden caramelization without burning them.
• Bold crust handling – Mishandling the pie crust can cause it to break. Keep it chilled until ready to use and handle it gently.
• Bold ingredient ratios – Using too many mushrooms or not enough cheese can alter the balance of flavors. Stick to recommended amounts for best results.
• Bold cooling time – Serving immediately after baking may lead to a messy dish. Allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes to set properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover crostata in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata

• Wrap the crostata tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F; bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-8 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata.

Can I use different types of cheese in the crostata?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella, but Cooper® Sharp White cheese adds a unique flavor that complements the dish well.

How do I customize the filling for the Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata?

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or substitute with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.

What should I serve with Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables, making it perfect for a light meal or appetizer.

Can I make this crostata ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the crostata just before baking for freshness.

Final Thoughts

The Cooper® French Onion and Mushroom Crostata is a delightful blend of savory flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Try this recipe today, and enjoy its rustic charm at your next gathering!