Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions

Introduction

When it comes to side dishes that steal the show, Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are surprisingly underappreciated. They’re rich, sweet, savory, and incredibly luxurious without being complicated to make. Imagine whole onions, slowly roasted until they’re caramelized and soft, then bathed in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce and baked until bubbling and golden. These onions melt in your mouth and are the perfect partner to roast meats, Thanksgiving spreads, or even grilled vegetables.

This recipe transforms a humble vegetable into something truly elegant, showcasing how a few simple ingredients—when treated right—can yield show-stopping results. Let’s dive into the full, detailed recipe that’ll have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds).

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🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the roasted onions:

• 6 medium sweet onions (such as Vidalia or yellow onions), peeled and halved

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

For the Parmesan cream sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1½ cups whole milk or heavy cream (warm)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional):

• Chopped fresh parsley

• Extra Parmesan for broiling

• Toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping

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🛠️ Equipment You’ll Need

• Large baking dish

• Medium saucepan

• Whisk

• Baking tray (optional if pre-roasting onions separately)

• Knife and cutting board

• Aluminum foil

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🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

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🔪 Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Onions

Why This Step Matters:

Roasting the onions before creaming intensifies their natural sugars, deepens their flavor, and ensures they’re tender and not overly sharp.

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Cut onions in half from root to tip and peel away the skins, keeping the root end intact so they hold together.

3. Rub them with olive oil, season generously with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.

4. Arrange them cut-side down in a baking dish or on a baking tray lined with parchment.

5. Roast uncovered for 35–45 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until they are golden brown and soft in the center.

Pro Tip: If you like a bit of char or caramelization, let them roast a bit longer. The sugars will concentrate more.

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🥄 Step 2: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

Why This Step Matters:

This sauce is the soul of the dish—creamy, nutty, garlicky, and savory. Parmesan brings saltiness and depth, and the sauce should be just thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.

2. Add 2 tablespoons flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. It should bubble gently but not brown.

3. Gradually whisk in the warm milk or cream, making sure no lumps remain.

4. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened—about 3–5 minutes.

5. Stir in:

   • Parmesan cheese

   • Garlic powder

   • Nutmeg

   • Salt and pepper to taste

6. Remove from heat and let it thicken slightly more as it cools.

Optional Add-Ins: A dash of Dijon mustard or a splash of white wine can elevate the sauce further.

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🧅 Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Once the onions are roasted, transfer them to a buttered baking dish (cut side up this time for presentation).

2. Pour the Parmesan cream sauce evenly over the onions, making sure it flows into the layers.

3. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.

4. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.

5. Remove foil and broil for 3–5 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Optional: Add toasted breadcrumbs before broiling for a crunchy contrast.

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🌿 Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

2. Garnish with fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, and an extra dusting of Parmesan if desired.

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🥗 Serving Suggestions

These creamed onions are perfect for:

• Holiday dinners like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter

• A cozy weeknight meal alongside roast chicken or beef

• Vegetarian mains like mushroom wellington or stuffed bell peppers

• Fancy brunches paired with eggs Benedict or quiches

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🔄 Variations and Customizations

🧄 Garlic-Lovers’ Version:

Sauté finely minced garlic (2 cloves) in the butter before adding flour for deeper flavor.

🧀 Cheesier Option:

Add Gruyère or Fontina to the cream sauce for a melty finish.

🌿 Herb Swap:

Substitute thyme with rosemary, sage, or tarragon for different herbal notes.

🥛 Dairy-Free:

Use plant-based butter, flour, and unsweetened oat milk or cashew cream with vegan Parmesan.

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📦 Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Fridge:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warm.

Freezer:

• Freeze fully assembled (before baking) for up to 2 months.

• Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

Tip: Make the sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge to save time on the day of serving.

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🧠 Nutritional Highlights (per serving, approx.)

Note: This dish is high in calcium and vitamin C, especially when using sweet onions and quality dairy products.

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📝 Final Thoughts

Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are a glorious example of taking a simple ingredient and transforming it into something luxurious. The natural sweetness of the roasted onions balances beautifully with the richness of the Parmesan cream sauce, creating a side dish that is both rustic and refined.

Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or simply treating yourself to an indulgent side, this dish offers big rewards for minimal effort. Serve it alongside your favorite roast or enjoy it on its own with a chunk of crusty bread—either way, it’s bound to become a new favorite.