Forget everything you think you know about onions. This Creamy Baked Onions recipe transforms humble onions into a decadent and surprisingly addictive side dish. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, and guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and delicious dishes. Get ready to experience the magic of baked onions like never before!
Ingredients:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, thinly slice your onions. Aim for consistent slices for even cooking. This is a simple step, but crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Sauté the Onions: Melt the butter in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works great!) over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. This step helps to bring out the sweetness of the onions.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the heavy cream over the onions, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine everything evenly. Cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the cream has thickened slightly.
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Garnish & Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve immediately as a delightful accompaniment to roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even alongside your favorite pasta dish.
Tips for Creamy Baked Onion Success:
- Onion Selection: Yellow onions are ideal for this recipe because they offer a great balance of sweetness and sharpness.
- Even Slicing: Consistent onion slices ensure even cooking and prevent some pieces from burning before others are tender.
- Don't Overcrowd: Make sure your skillet isn't overcrowded; this will hinder the onions from cooking properly and result in steaming instead of baking.
- Oven Temperature: Keep a close eye on your oven and the onions during baking. Ovens vary, so adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes will add a delightful kick.
- Cheese it up: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere or Fontina for a unique flavor profile.
- Herby Delight: Add other herbs like rosemary or oregano to complement the thyme.
- Creamy variations: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: Approximately 15g
- Protein: Approximately 5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g
This Creamy Baked Onions recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when treated with care and attention, can transform into an extraordinary culinary experience. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – easy, healthy, and undeniably delicious. Enjoy!