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Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions
There’s something extraordinary about the sweet, mellow flavor of roasted onions combined with the richness of cream and Parmesan cheese. These Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are the ultimate comfort side dish — silky, flavorful, and elegant enough for holidays yet simple enough for everyday meals. If you’re looking to elevate your dinner table with a dish that’s both rustic and refined, this recipe is exactly what you need
A Cozy Classic with a Gourmet Twist
Onions are often the unsung heroes of the kitchen — always there to add depth and sweetness to other dishes but rarely the star of the show. This recipe flips the script. Roasting the onions first transforms them into golden, caramelized bites full of natural sweetness. Then, they’re bathed in a creamy Parmesan sauce that adds a luxurious touch. The result is a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves: 4 to 6 people
- 2 pounds small yellow or white onions (about 12–14 onions)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Tip: Use smaller onions like pearl or cipollini for an elegant presentation, but any small, firm onions work beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel the onions, leaving them whole, and trim only the root ends slightly so they can sit flat. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Roast Until Golden
Spread the onions on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Roast for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they become tender and golden brown on the edges. The roasting process enhances their sweetness and gives them a subtle caramelized flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Cream Sauce
In a small saucepan, pour in the heavy cream and place it over medium heat. Add the garlic powder, thyme, and a pinch of paprika. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Once the onions are roasted, transfer them to a greased baking dish. Pour the warm Parmesan cream sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan for a crisp finish. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the sauce bubbles and the top is lightly browned.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh pop of color. Serve warm alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a simple green salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish captures everything we love about comfort food — creamy, savory, and deeply flavorful. But it also brings sophistication to your table. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
Sweet and savory balance: The natural sweetness of roasted onions pairs beautifully with the rich Parmesan sauce.
Easy to make: Minimal ingredients, simple steps, and elegant results.
Perfect for holidays: An ideal addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering.
Versatile: Works as a side dish, topping for steak, or even a vegetarian main course with crusty bread.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (though it’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quicker option. The flavors become even deeper after a day, making it great for meal prep.
>Chef’s Tips for Success
Caramelize further for richer flavor: For extra sweetness, roast the onions 10 minutes longer until deeply golden.
Use high-quality Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and adds better flavor than pre-grated versions.
Try adding a crispy topping: A handful of breadcrumbs mixed with butter can be sprinkled on top before the final bake for a crunchy texture.
Experiment with herbs: Rosemary, sage, or even a pinch of nutmeg can change the flavor profile beautifully.
Serving Ideas
These Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, steak, or pork tenderloin. For a vegetarian option, serve them over mashed potatoes, risotto, or buttered pasta. They also make a comforting addition to holiday spreads alongside turkey, stuffing, and gravy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 240 kcal
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fat: 16 g
Sodium: 320 mg
Final Thoughts
Simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors — and this recipe is proof. The creamy Parmesan sauce combined with the caramelized sweetness of roasted onions creates a side dish that’s unforgettable. It’s comfort food elevated to something truly special.
So whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a holiday feast, or just want something cozy to go with your weeknight meal, these Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions will steal the show every single time.