Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions

Instructions for Making Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Onions

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is ideal for roasting the onions, allowing them to caramelize and bring out their natural sweetness.

Cut the onions into thick wedges, ensuring that each wedge holds together. Drizzle them with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Toss the onions gently to coat them evenly in the oil and seasoning.

Spread the onion wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re not crowded so they can roast evenly.

2. Roast the Onions

Place the onions in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You want the onions to become golden-brown and tender. The edges will caramelize slightly, and the center will become soft and sweet. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While the onions are roasting, it’s time to prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to create a smooth paste (this is called a roux). Let the roux cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to thicken.

Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken for 3-4 minutes. Add the Parmesan cheese, thyme, and nutmeg (if using), and continue to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Dish

Once the onions are roasted and the creamy sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the dish. Arrange the roasted onion wedges in a baking dish, slightly overlapping them if necessary. Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce evenly over the onions, making sure to cover them generously.

5. Bake and Finish

To finish the dish, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top of the onions and sauce. This will give the dish a crispy, cheesy crust as it bakes.

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. You can also broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end if you want an extra crispy finish.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are golden and bubbly, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Use Yellow or Sweet Onions: Yellow onions or sweet onions (such as Vidalia) work best for this recipe, as they are naturally sweeter and caramelize well during roasting.
• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce, you can adjust the amount of heavy cream or flour. For a richer texture, add a bit more cheese.
• Add Extra Flavor: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other herbs and spices such as rosemary, oregano, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance! You can roast the onions and make the creamy sauce ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving.

Why This Dish Works So Well

Roasting the onions brings out their natural sweetness, and when combined with the creamy Parmesan sauce, they become a delightful indulgence. The richness of the cheese and cream balances the savory depth of the roasted onions, while the crisp topping adds a satisfying texture to each bite. The addition of garlic powder and thyme rounds out the flavor profile, giving it a fragrant, herby note.

This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a holiday meal and pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef. It’s also a great addition to a Thanksgiving or Christmas spread, adding a comforting, creamy side to balance out the other savory dishes.

Conclusion: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s full of flavor, Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions is the perfect choice. With its combination of sweet roasted onions, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping, this dish is bound to become a new favorite at your table. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to impress your guests.

So, next time you’re planning a meal and want to add something extra special, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!