Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are a luxurious and flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal. The sweetness of the roasted onions is perfectly complemented by the rich cream sauce infused with Parmesan, garlic, and thyme. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium-sized onions, peeled and halved: The star of the dish. Choose medium-sized onions that will roast evenly and develop a sweet, caramelized flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for roasting the onions, giving them a nice golden color and enhancing their natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Helps to season the onions and draw out their natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complements the sweetness of the onions.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding richness and a velvety texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, savory flavor to the cream sauce, balancing the sweetness of the onions.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the cream sauce with a fragrant, savory aroma.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme): Adds a fresh, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the onions and Parmesan.
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: A warm spice that enhances the richness of the cream sauce, adding a subtle depth of flavor.
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting the onions to a perfect golden brown while keeping them tender inside.
- Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and cut them in half vertically. Arrange the onion halves, cut side up, in a baking dish that’s large enough to hold them in a single layer. Drizzle the olive oil over the onions, ensuring they are evenly coated. Season with the salt and black pepper.
- Roast the Onions: Roast the onions in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are soft and begin to caramelize around the edges. The roasting process will bring out the natural sweetness of the onions, giving them a rich, deep flavor.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: While the onions are roasting, prepare the cream sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, thyme, and nutmeg. Stir constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let the sauce boil, as this can cause it to curdle.
- Combine the Onions and Sauce: Once the onions are roasted, remove them from the oven. Pour the Parmesan cream sauce evenly over the onions, making sure each piece is well-coated. The sauce will seep into the crevices of the onions, adding a rich, creamy flavor to every bite.
- Bake the Onions: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cream sauce is bubbling and the tops of the onions are golden brown. This final bake allows the sauce to thicken and meld with the onions, creating a luscious, creamy dish.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the onions from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor. These roasted Parmesan creamed onions are best served warm and make a fantastic side dish for roast chicken, steak, or any hearty main course.
Tips for Success:
- Onions: Choose onions of uniform size so they cook evenly. Yellow or sweet onions work particularly well in this dish due to their natural sweetness.
- Cheese: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a more intense flavor.
- Cream: Ensure that the cream sauce doesn’t boil while cooking. Boiling can cause the cream to curdle, resulting in a grainy texture.
- Serving Suggestions: These onions pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, such as roasted meats or grilled vegetables. They can also be served as part of a holiday meal or alongside a simple green salad for a lighter option.
These Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are sure to become a favorite side dish. The combination of tender, caramelized onions with the rich, cheesy cream sauce is irresistible. This dish is both comforting and sophisticated, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Enjoy!
