These creamy baked onions are a warm hug on your plate! Topped with cheesy Asiago, they’re soft, flavorful, and a real treat for onion lovers.
Perfect as a side dish, I often serve these with roasted chicken. The gooey cheese makes it hard to stop at just one—trust me, it’s worth the extra napkin! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onions: Yellow or sweet onions work best for this recipe due to their natural sweetness. If you want something milder, you can use Vidalia onions. For a sharper flavor, red onions are also a tasty substitute!
Asiago Cheese: Asiago gives a nice salty kick, but you can substitute it with Parmesan or Gruyère if you can’t find it. If you’re looking for a lighter cheese, part-skim mozzarella can also work, though it won’t have the same depth of flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the dish may not be as creamy. Coconut cream can also be a dairy-free alternative, giving it a unique flavor!
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbaceous note, but feel free to use dried thyme. Just use about one-third the amount. Oregano or rosemary can also be nice substitutes; they provide a different but delicious twist.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is key for adding depth to this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with the right pan: Use a skillet, and choose one that distributes heat evenly.
- Heat the oil or butter on medium-low heat. Too high will burn the onions before they soften.
- Add the onions and stir occasionally. Patience is key! This process usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
- Season with a little salt to help draw out the moisture. The onions should turn golden brown and sweet as they cook.
Remember, the more you let them cook low and slow, the sweeter and more flavorful they’ll become!
How to Make Creamy Baked Onions with Cheesy Asiago
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Baked Onions:
- 4 large onions (preferably yellow or sweet), peeled and cut into 1-inch thick rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Asiago cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra for garnish
- Optional: 1 tablespoon flour (to slightly thicken the cream sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of baking time—so, roughly 40 minutes total. Perfect for a cozy side dish, and trust me, it will be well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot for baking the onions.
2. Searing the Onions:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, lay the onion rounds flat in the skillet. Sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they are lightly browned and soft but still holding their round shape. Just be careful not to burn them!
3. Prepare the Cream Mixture:
Next, take the skillet off the heat. In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme leaves, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. If you would like a thicker sauce, stir in the flour. This is optional, so it’s up to your preference!
4. Assemble the Dish:
Pour the creamy mixture around and over (but not completely covering) the onions, allowing the tops to remain visible. This way, they’ll get that lovely golden color while baking.
5. Add the Asiago:
Now, it’s time for the cheese! Evenly sprinkle the grated Asiago on top of each onion round. This will create a gooey, cheesy topping as it bakes.
6. Bake the Onions:
Put the skillet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the cream should be bubbly, and the cheese should turn golden and slightly crispy. Yum!
7. Finishing Touches:
Once out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with a few fresh thyme leaves and a final sprinkle of black pepper for extra flavor.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the creamy baked onions warm. They make the perfect side dish for roasted meats or a fresh, crisp salad. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Your Creamy Baked Onions with Cheesy Asiago are now ready to dazzle your taste buds! They are tender, flavorful, and oh-so-cheesy. Dig in!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! Yellow or sweet onions provide a nice sweetness, but you can also use Vidalia onions for a milder flavor. If you prefer a sharper taste, red onions can be a delicious alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked onions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or warm them in the microwave. If the cheese has hardened a bit, adding a splash of cream while reheating can help restore the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the onions and the cream mixture a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them separately, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve. This way, you’ll save time on busy days!
What Can I Substitute for Asiago Cheese?
If you can’t find Asiago, substitutes like grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese work wonderfully. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different. For a milder cheese, part-skim mozzarella is an option, though it won’t be as rich.
