Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe

If you’re searching for a unique and flavorful side dish, look no further than these Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions. This dish transforms simple onions into a rich, creamy delight with a golden, cheesy topping. It’s perfect for holiday feasts or family dinners. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll have a decadent side that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or even as a stand-alone dish.

Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe

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Course: Side dishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings
+

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

45

minutes
Calories per serving

250

kcal
Total time

1

hour 
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Ingredients

  • For the Onions:
  • 6 6 large yellow onions

  • 2 tablespoons 2 olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • For the Cream Sauce:
  • 240 ml 240 heavy cream

  • 50 g 50 grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 tablespoons 2 unsalted butter

  • 2 2 garlic cloves

  • 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 ground nutmeg

  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 fresh thyme leaves

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • For the Topping:
  • 50 g 50 grated Parmesan cheese

  • 30 g 30 panko breadcrumbs

  • 1 tablespoon 1 unsalted butter

  • 1 tablespoon 1 fresh parsley (optional)

Equipment

  • Large baking dish
  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Aluminum foil

Directions

  • Roasting the Onions:
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Peel and halve the onions, then place them cut side up in a large baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and roast the onions in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until they are tender and slightly caramelized around the edges.
  • Making the Cream Sauce:
  • While the onions are roasting, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly.
  • Remove the roasted onions from the oven and pour the cream sauce evenly over them.
  • Adding the Topping and Baking:
  • In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter until well combined.
  • Sprinkle the Parmesan-panko mixture evenly over the creamed onions.
  • Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
  • Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot

Notes

  • Yellow onions are recommended for their sweetness, but you can also use red onions for a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I use a different type of onion?

Yes! While yellow onions are recommended for their sweetness and flavor, you can use red onions or even sweet Vidalia onions. Each type will bring a slightly different taste to the dish.

Absolutely. You can roast the onions and prepare the cream sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine and bake just before serving to ensure the topping stays crispy.

If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream could work, though it will add a subtle coconut flavor.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave, though the topping may lose its crispiness.

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like beef, chicken, or pork. It’s also a great side for a holiday feast, alongside dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, or stuffing.

Yes, you can! Adding vegetables like sliced mushrooms, spinach, or even artichoke hearts can enhance the dish. Simply sauté them before mixing into the cream sauce.

Gruyère, Pecorino Romano, or even a sharp white cheddar can be delicious alternatives. Each cheese will impart a unique flavor to the dish.

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the breadcrumbs entirely.