Onions are one of the most versatile vegetables in the kitchen, capable of transforming any dish with their rich, savory flavor. While there are countless ways to cook onions, roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, turning them into a tender, caramelized delight. But why stop there? By adding a luxurious cream sauce and a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, these roasted onions become an extraordinary side dish that’s guaranteed to impress.

As the onions roast, their sharpness mellows, replaced by a savory sweetness that pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins, from roasted chicken to grilled pork. The addition of a creamy, cheesy topping elevates the dish, adding richness and depth that makes these onions not just a side, but a star on the plate. This is comfort food at its finest—simple, yet utterly satisfying.

If you’ve never tried roasting onions before, this recipe is the perfect place to start. A few slices of onion roasted in the oven are delicious on their own, but when topped with a velvety cream sauce and baked until golden and bubbly, they become something truly special. The combination of tender, caramelized onions and a creamy, cheesy sauce is simply irresistible. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually stunning addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

• 3 sweet onions, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat your oven to 375º F. Spread the thinly sliced onion rings in a 9×13-inch baking dish, keeping the rings and layers intact to preserve their shape. Drizzle the onions with extra-virgin olive oil and season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

2. Roast the Onions:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast the onions for 15 minutes, or until they begin to soften and their natural sweetness starts to emerge. This initial roasting step is key to achieving the perfect texture.

3. Prepare the Cream Sauce:

While the onions are roasting, increase the oven temperature to 450º F. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, white wine, butter, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until the butter melts and the cream begins to bubble gently around the edges. This sauce will add a rich, savory layer to the sweet, roasted onions.

4. Combine and Bake:

Remove the roasted onions from the oven and pour the prepared cream sauce over them, making sure to coat the onions evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for another 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are fully caramelized and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. These Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven, where their creamy, cheesy goodness is at its peak.

Bonus Tip:

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cream sauce. The vinegar will enhance the sweetness of the onions while adding a subtle tang that complements the richness of the dish.

Conclusion:

Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are a decadent, mouthwatering side dish that’s sure to become a favorite. The combination of tender, sweet onions with a rich, cheesy cream sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to elevate your meal, this dish is as impressive as it is delicious. So, next time you’re looking for a side that steals the show, give these roasted onions a try—you won’t be disappointed!