Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are a rich, savory side dish that combines the sweetness of roasted onions with a creamy, cheesy sauce. They’re perfect for holiday meals or any dinner when you want a flavorful and elegant side. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
- 12-14 small pearl onions (or about 2 cups of chopped onions)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but adds great depth of flavor)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Roast the Onions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel the pearl onions, leaving the root end intact to hold them together (you can also use frozen pearl onions, but fresh is best).
- Toss the onions in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until the onions are tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- While the onions are roasting, heat a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the cream cheese and let it soften in the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, thyme, and nutmeg (if using). Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce is smooth and the cheese has melted into the cream.
- Combine:
- Once the onions are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- If using pearl onions, you can gently squeeze them from the root end to remove the skins (or leave them as is if preferred).
- Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce over the roasted onions and gently toss to coat.
- Finish and Serve:
- Return the onions and creamy sauce mixture to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips:
- You can use larger onions if pearl onions aren’t available, just cut them into quarters or wedges before roasting.
- Add a bit of crispy bacon or pancetta on top for extra flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream, but the sauce may be a bit less rich.
These Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent side that will be a hit at any dinner!