If you are looking to transform humble onions into a show-stopping side, this Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Imagine sweet, tender onions roasted to golden perfection, swimming in a luxuriously creamy sauce enriched with garlic, thyme, and nutty Parmesan cheese. It’s a comforting, elegant dish that pairs beautifully with everything from a holiday roast to a simple weeknight meal. Each layer of flavor melts together so effortlessly, making this more than just a side—it’s a celebration of what onions can truly be.

Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create an incredible depth of flavor and texture. Each component has a special role, from the sweetness of the yellow onions to the creamy richness of the Parmesan and butter.

6 medium yellow onions (peeled and halved): The star of the recipe, these get beautifully sweet and tender as they roast.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the onions caramelize and adds a subtle fruity note.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural sweetness of the onions.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, velvety base of the creamed sauce.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mild, deeply savory undertone without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried): Brings a fragrant herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces): Adds lushness and a silky finish during the second roasting.
Optional chopped parsley for garnish: Gives a fresh burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness.

How to Make Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Onions

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your peeled and halved onions cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over each onion, then sprinkle generously with salt and black pepper. This seasoning is key to enhancing their natural sweetness as they roast. Pop them into the oven and let them roast for 25 to 30 minutes until they start to soften and take on a lovely golden color on the edges.

Step 2: Warm the Cream Mixture

While the onions roast, gently warm the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the garlic powder and thyme to infuse the cream with their aromatic flavors. Warm it just until it’s cozy and steamy—avoid boiling to keep the cream smooth and fresh. This fragrant cream is what will elevate the dish from ordinary to unforgettable.

Step 3: Combine and Roast Again

Once the onions are tender but still hold their shape, remove the baking dish from the oven. Carefully pour the warm cream mixture evenly over the onions, letting it pool around the edges. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top, then scatter the small butter pieces across the surface. Return the dish to the oven for another 20 to 25 minutes. This step allows the cream to thicken, the cheese to melt into a golden crust, and the onions to become decadently tender all the way through.

Step 4: Rest and Garnish

After roasting, let your Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions rest for a few minutes—this gives the sauce a chance to set slightly and the flavors to fully meld. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you like a hint of vibrant green and a fresh, herbaceous note to brighten each bite.

How to Serve Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like chopped parsley or a light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper enhance both the flavor and the visual appeal of this dish. If you want an extra touch, try a dusting of smoked paprika for a hint of warmth or some crisp fried shallots on top for a textural contrast.

Side Dishes

This Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe makes a perfect companion to roast beef, pork loin, or even a festive turkey. It pairs wonderfully with roasted root vegetables or a hearty grain like wild rice or quinoa for a well-rounded meal. The creamy, cheesy onions bring a rich counterpoint that balances bold mains beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For something a little different, serve the creamed onions in individual ramekins as a fancy side for dinner guests. Or, spoon the mixture warm over toasted baguette slices for an indulgent appetizer. You can also mix the roasted onions gently into mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a crowd-pleasing twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it an ideal dish to prepare in advance for a busy weeknight or holiday meal.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish in a suitable container for up to 1 month. When freezing, allow it to cool completely and cover tightly to prevent freezer burn. While the texture of onions may soften slightly after freezing, the flavor holds beautifully.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. This keeps the creamy texture intact and lets the Parmesan top regain some of its delightful golden crust. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use different types of onions for this recipe?

Absolutely! While yellow onions provide sweetness and structure, mixing in red onions adds a bit more sharpness and color variation. Just ensure they are peeled and halved similarly for even roasting.

Is there a non-dairy substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can try using full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative, but keep in mind the flavor will be richer and the sauce may vary slightly in texture. The Parmesan cheese also adds dairy flavor, so omit or replace it with nutritional yeast if keeping it fully dairy-free.

How do I know when the onions are perfectly roasted?

Look for onions that are tender when pierced with a fork and have developed a golden to slightly caramelized color around the edges. They should maintain their shape but be soft enough to melt in your mouth.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a holiday meal?

Yes! This Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe is perfect for make-ahead cooking. Roast and combine the ingredients, then refrigerate and reheat just before serving to save time and reduce stress on the big day.

What if I want the dish spicier or more herb-forward?

Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick or swap thyme for rosemary or sage to adjust the herbal profile. The recipe is very forgiving and open to your personal taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe, you’ll see why it’s such a treasured dish in my kitchen. It’s simple but elegant, comforting yet sophisticated, and always leaves everyone asking for seconds. I can’t wait for you to experience its rich, creamy goodness and make it your go-to side for any occasion.

Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions Recipe

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4.3 from 37 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions recipe offers tender, caramelized onions baked in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. A perfect savory side dish ideal for holiday meals or pairing with roasted meats, combining simple ingredients for a deliciously comforting flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Onions

6 medium yellow onions, peeled and halved

Seasoning and Oil

2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

Cream Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Optional Garnish

Chopped parsley

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Instructions

Preheat and prepare onions: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the halved onions cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper evenly.
Roast onions: Roast the onions for 25–30 minutes until they begin to soften and develop slight browning around the edges.
Prepare cream mixture: While the onions roast, gently heat the heavy cream with garlic powder and thyme in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until just warmed through, ensuring it does not boil.
Add cream and toppings: Remove the roasting dish from the oven and pour the warmed cream evenly over the onions. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and dot with small pieces of unsalted butter.
Continue roasting: Return the dish to the oven and roast for an additional 20–25 minutes until the onions are tender and golden brown on top, and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Rest and garnish: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

For a more robust flavor, use a combination of yellow and red onions.
This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.
Perfect as a festive holiday side dish or served alongside roasted meats.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American