Name: Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-481224H43M25S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large yellow or sweet onions, peeled and sliced into ½-inch thick rings; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Introduction

There’s something magical about caramelized onions, and when you pair them with a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce, you create a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions have become one of my family’s favorite side dishes for dinner, especially on those chilly nights when we crave something savory and warming. The combination of tender, roasted onion rings coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce is irresistible. It’s simple enough to make for a weeknight meal but elevated enough to impress at special gatherings.

My family loves how the onions, roasted to perfection, develop that sweet, caramelized flavor that pairs so beautifully with the richness of the Parmesan cream. I’ll make a large batch, and it’s always the first dish to disappear off the table. Whether served alongside roasted meats or as a decadent standalone vegetable dish, these Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Onions:

4 large yellow or sweet onions, peeled and sliced into ½-inch thick rings
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking dish by greasing it with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking and to add some extra flavor to the onions while they roast.

2. Prepare the Onions

Peel the onions and slice them into ½-inch thick rings. Place the rings in a large mixing bowl and drizzle them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the onion rings until they are well-coated in the oil and seasoning, ensuring every piece gets some flavor.

Spread the onions evenly in the greased baking dish, making sure they are not overcrowded, so they have space to roast evenly.

3. Roast the Onions

Place the baking dish in the oven and roast the onions for 25-30 minutes, or until the onions soften and caramelize slightly at the edges. Stir the onions halfway through the roasting process to ensure they cook evenly.

The goal here is to develop a rich, sweet flavor by roasting them until they’re tender and a little bit golden.

4. Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

While the onions are roasting, you can make the creamy Parmesan sauce. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.

Once the butter is melted, stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, and thyme. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, just until it thickens slightly.

Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

5. Combine and Bake Again

Once the onions have roasted and are tender, pour the Parmesan cream sauce over them, making sure all the onions are well-coated. The cream will bring a luscious richness to the onions and create a beautifully decadent dish.

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the top has turned golden brown. You can broil the top for the last few minutes if you prefer a crispier, more golden finish.

6. Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. If you like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of freshness. Serve these creamy, cheesy onions while they’re still warm and bubbling.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1/6 of the dish
Calories: 230 kcal
Fat: 21g

Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 9g

Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 4g

Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 320mg

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes

How to Serve

As a Side Dish: Serve these roasted Parmesan creamed onions alongside roasted meats such as chicken, pork, or beef. They pair beautifully with anything that has a rich, savory flavor.
Perfect for Holiday Meals: These onions make an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast. They provide a comforting, elegant side dish that complements heavier main courses like turkey or roast beef.
With a Salad: For a lighter meal, serve these onions with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the onions.

With Pasta: Toss these roasted onions into a pasta dish for added depth of flavor. Creamy Parmesan onions go wonderfully with pasta dishes that have a light, olive oil-based sauce or even in a hearty meat sauce.

Additional Tips

Use Sweet Onions: For a milder, sweeter flavor, try using sweet onions like Vidalia. These onions caramelize beautifully and add a subtle sweetness to the dish.
Add Some Crunch: If you love texture, consider adding a topping of breadcrumbs for the final 5 minutes of baking. This will add a delightful crunch to the creamy onions.

Make It a Main: Serve these creamed onions over rice or mashed potatoes for a more substantial meal.
Customize with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a twist on the classic thyme flavor.
Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd, don’t hesitate to double the recipe. These onions are always a hit at dinner parties or family gatherings.

Recipe Variations

Add Bacon: For a smoky, savory twist, top the dish with crumbled cooked bacon before serving. The crispiness of the bacon complements the creamy onions perfectly.
Vegan Version: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute, along with a plant-based Parmesan cheese alternative, to make this dish vegan-friendly.
Add Mushrooms: If you’re a fan of mushrooms, sauté them with the onions in the roasting pan for an earthy addition to the dish.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan cream sauce for a little heat that balances the richness of the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

With Grilled Meats: These creamy onions are the perfect complement to grilled meats such as steak, lamb, or chicken. The richness of the dish pairs beautifully with the smoky flavors of grilled protein.
With Potatoes: Serve alongside roasted or mashed potatoes to create a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for colder weather.

For a Light Dinner: Serve these roasted onions with a fresh, zesty arugula salad for a simple, satisfying meal without the heaviness.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: While this dish is best served fresh, you can freeze the leftovers if needed. Allow the onions to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat, place the onions in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, until heated through. You can also broil the top for 2-3 minutes to restore the golden brown color.

Storage: If you plan to eat the leftovers within a few days, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen onions?
It’s best to use fresh onions for this recipe, as frozen onions may have too much water content and won’t caramelize as well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the onions and sauce in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Simply assemble and bake before serving.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free cream substitute and non-dairy Parmesan cheese to make this dish dairy-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce for an extra kick, or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled for larger crowds or gatherings.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, mushrooms, bell peppers, or even zucchini can be added to the roasting pan with the onions.
How do I know when the onions are done roasting?
The onions should be tender and slightly caramelized around the edges. You can check them with a fork to ensure they’re soft.
Can I use a different cheese?
While Parmesan adds the right flavor, you can substitute with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheesy taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this a main dish?
Yes, serve the onions over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes to turn it into a main dish.

Conclusion

Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are an indulgent, savory side dish that brings together the sweetness of roasted onions with the richness of a creamy Parmesan sauce. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday feast, a family dinner, or a weeknight treat, they are sure to become a favorite. Simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to pair with almost anything, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe