Potato and Leek Tart with Puff Pastry

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I had fresh leeks from my parents’ garden, those fragrant tender ones that seem to say “use me well.” I didn’t feel like complicating my life, nor did I want the usual soup which, honestly, I don’t even like that much. So I opened the fridge, saw a roll of puff pastry, I had a few potatoes at home… and the idea clicked: a simple, creamy and super comforting tart, perfect for dinner but also to take to work the next day.
The leek-and-potato combination is always a winner, but here it gets even more indulgent thanks to the crispy pastry and the soft filling of eggs, milk and Emmenthal that binds everything perfectly.

It’s a clever, accessible recipe that smells like home and seasonality. If you have leeks to use up or want a quick idea for a savory tart different from the usual, this tart will save your evening.

  • Difficulty: Very easy
  • Cost: Very inexpensive
  • Preparation time: 15 Minutes
  • Cooking time: 40 Minutes
  • Cooking methods: Stovetop, Oven
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Seasonality: Autumn, Winter and Spring, All seasons

Ingredients

POTATO AND LEEK TART WITH PUFF PASTRY

  • 1 roll of puff pastry
  • 3 potatoes
  • 1 leek
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3.2 oz Emmenthal, diced
  • salt
  • pepper (optional)

Tools

POTATO AND LEEK TART WITH PUFF PASTRY

  • 1 Padella nonstick frying pan
  • 1 Teglia baking tray
  • 1 Pelaverdure peeler

Steps

  • Peel the potatoes, slice them into rounds and boil until tender.

  • Slice the leeks into rings and cook them in a pan with a splash of water until soft.

  • Line a baking tin with the puff pastry, leaving the baking paper. Prick the bottom with a fork. Arrange a layer of potatoes and add a pinch of salt.

  • Spread the cooked leeks. Cover with another layer of potatoes.

  • Beat the eggs with the milk, add the diced Emmenthal and a pinch of salt. Pour the mixture over the vegetables, distributing it evenly.

  • Bake at 356°F for about 40 minutes, until the surface is golden and the filling is well set.

  • Let it cool slightly before slicing: it will be easier to get perfect slices.

✨Variations:

With pancetta or speck: add browned diced cured pork for a smoky touch.

Light vegetarian: replace the cheese with feta or goat cheese and use plant-based milk.

Rustic wholegrain: try with wholemeal shortcrust pastry or a multigrain puff pastry.

With other vegetables: you can add zucchini, red onion or spinach to vary color and flavor.

Mini tarts: make single-portion versions in muffin tins for an elegant appetizer.

FAQ (Questions and Answers)

  • Can I substitute the Emmenthal?

    Yes, fontina, mild scamorza, provola or a mix of melting cheeses work well.

  • How do I store the tart?

    In the fridge, well covered, for up to 2 days. It can also be frozen already cooked.

  • Can it be prepared in advance?

    Of course: you can assemble it and bake later, or bake it and reheat when needed.

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cucinamica

Simple recipes from Italian cuisine, from appetizers to desserts.

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