Below is a complete, clean guide for Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions with all requested sections — and without any wide lines or horizontal separators.
Introduction
Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are a comforting, elegant side dish that combines the sweetness of roasted onions with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with holiday meals, roasted meats, or vegetarian entrées, offering a flavorful twist on classic creamed vegetables.
Origin
Creamed vegetables, especially creamed onions, have been part of European and American comfort cooking for centuries. The addition of roasting and Parmesan adds a modern, savory depth, transforming a traditional dish into something richer and more gourmet. This variation blends old-fashioned techniques with contemporary culinary style.
Cultural Significance
Creamed onions often appear on holiday tables such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and winter gatherings. Their nostalgic flavor represents warmth, tradition, and shared meals. The roasted Parmesan version elevates a beloved classic, making it suitable for festive occasions or refined dinner parties.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Onions:
- 2 pounds pearl onions or small white onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or 1 cup milk + ½ cup cream)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- 2 cloves roasted garlic, mashed
- ¼ cup grated Gruyère or Pecorino cheese
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives
- A dash of white wine added to the sauce
- Crispy breadcrumbs on top for a crunch
Tips for Success
- Blanch pearl onions briefly to make peeling easier.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor.
- Roast the onions until caramelized; this deepens sweetness.
- Keep the cream sauce on low heat to avoid separation.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before combining with the onions.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
- Peel the onions. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the onions on a baking sheet and roast for 25–35 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to form a smooth roux.
- Slowly add the cream while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Cook until thickened, then add Parmesan and optional nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper.
- Combine the roasted onions with the Parmesan cream sauce in a baking dish.
- Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes if you prefer a thicker, baked finish.
- Serve hot as a comforting, rich side dish.
Description
This dish features tender, sweet onions coated in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. The roasting brings out natural sweetness, while the cheese adds savory complexity. The result is a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth side that balances richness with subtle sweetness.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 220–300
- Fat: 16–22 g
- Carbohydrates: 10–15 g
- Protein: 4–6 g
- Good source of calcium from Parmesan and cream
- Contains antioxidants like quercetin from onions
(Values vary based on cream choice and added cheeses.)
Conclusion
Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are a delicious upgrade to the traditional creamed onion side dish. With their rich sauce and roasted caramelized flavor, they elevate any dinner table and provide a warm, comforting addition to both casual and holiday meals.
Recommendation
Serve this dish alongside roasted meats, turkey, ham, or vegetarian mains. Adjust the sauce thickness to your preference, and consider using specialty cheeses for a gourmet touch. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for part of the cream.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This recipe allows you to enjoy creamy comfort food while embracing wholesome ingredients like onions—naturally rich in vitamins and antioxidants. It’s an indulgence that honors both flavor and nourishment, offering a hearty, satisfying side dish made with care and balance.
If you’d like, I can also create a printable recipe card or add variations like herb-infused or gluten-free versions!