Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions: A Symphony of Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Utilizes everyday pantry staples to create a gourmet dish.
Flavorful: The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of onions, balanced by the savory cream and Parmesan sauce.
Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian entrees.
Elegant Presentation: The layered onion rings and golden topping make for an impressive presentation.
Comforting: Offers a warm, creamy texture that's perfect for cozy meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 sweet onions, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup white wine
½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Onions: Arrange the sliced onion rings in a 9×13-inch baking dish, keeping the rings intact. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Roast Onions: Place the dish in the oven and roast for 15 minutes until the onions begin to soften.
Increase Temperature: Remove the dish from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 450°F (232°C).
Prepare Cream Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, white wine, butter, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the butter melts and the mixture bubbles around the edges. Remove from heat.
Combine and Bake: Pour the cream sauce over the roasted onions and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Final Roast: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the onions are caramelized and the cheese is golden brown.
Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Cheese Alternatives: Substitute Parmesan with Gruyère, Asiago, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the cream sauce for added aroma.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat.
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth in place of white wine for a non-alcoholic version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

FAQs

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can roast the onions and prepare the cream sauce in advance. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

Can I use a different type of onion?

Yes, while sweet onions like Vidalia are preferred for their mild flavor, yellow or white onions can also be used.

What can I substitute for white wine?

Chicken or vegetable broth can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute for white wine.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream provides the richest texture, but half-and-half can be used for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less thick.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding sliced mushrooms or bell peppers can enhance the dish's flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the onions from falling apart?

Slice the onions into thick rings and handle them gently during preparation to maintain their shape.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to increase the heat to your preference.

What main dishes pair well with this side?

This dish complements roasted meats, grilled chicken, pork chops, or even as a topping for steaks.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best flavor and melting quality, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.

How do I store leftovers?

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat as described above.

Conclusion

Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions offer a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors, making them a standout side dish for any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.