Creamed Onions Recipe: 5 Savory Side Dishes

Creamed onions are a classic dish that elevates any holiday or special dinner with their creamy richness and subtle sweetness. While often overlooked, these little orbs of delight can be the star of the table when prepared correctly. Whether you're looking to bring a taste of nostalgia to your meal or simply want to explore new flavors, here are five savory side dishes featuring creamed onions that you simply have to try.

Classic Creamed Onions

Overview: The traditional creamed onions recipe offers a simple yet elegant side dish, perfect for complementing a variety of mains. It’s a great introduction to this savory delicacy.

• Ingredients: Pearl onions, butter, flour, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or parsley.
• Preparation:
  1. Peel pearl onions. Parboil them for a couple of minutes to make peeling easier.
  2. Melt butter in a saucepan, add flour to create a roux, then slowly whisk in the cream, ensuring no lumps form.
  3. Add the onions, season with salt, pepper, and any herbs you choose.
  4. Cook gently until the sauce thickens and onions become tender, about 10 minutes.

💡 Note: For a deeper flavor, consider caramelizing the onions slightly before adding them to the cream.

Scalloped Potatoes with Creamed Onions

Overview: Combining the comforting texture of scalloped potatoes with the luxurious creaminess of creamed onions, this dish creates a symphony of flavors that’ll leave your guests asking for seconds.

• Ingredients: Russet potatoes, butter, milk, flour, cream, pearl onions, garlic, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
• Preparation:
  1. Layer sliced potatoes and parboiled onions in a greased baking dish.
  2. Prepare a bechamel sauce with butter, flour, and milk, then stir in cream, garlic, and seasonings.
  3. Pour the sauce over the potatoes and onions.
  4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour until bubbly and golden.

💡 Note: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy finish.

Creamed Onions and Mushroom Casserole

Overview: This dish elevates creamed onions by incorporating the umami of mushrooms, creating a casserole that’s both comforting and rich.

• Ingredients: Pearl onions, cremini mushrooms, heavy cream, garlic, butter, flour, white wine, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs.
• Preparation:
  1. Parboil pearl onions, then sauté them with sliced mushrooms in butter until tender.
  2. Create a roux with butter and flour, whisk in wine to deglaze, then add cream to make the sauce.
  3. Combine onions and mushrooms with the sauce, transfer to a baking dish, and top with breadcrumbs.
  4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until the top is golden and crispy.

💡 Note: This dish is also excellent with the addition of Gruyère cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Creamed Onion and Leek Gratin

Overview: Introducing the sweeter cousin of the onion, leeks, this gratin offers a lovely contrast with the creaminess of the sauce and the delicate, buttery flavor of the leeks.

• Ingredients: Leeks, pearl onions, heavy cream, butter, flour, Gruyère cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Preparation:
  1. Clean and slice leeks, then parboil pearl onions.
  2. Make a bechamel sauce, stirring in the Gruyère cheese until melted.
  3. Mix leeks and onions with the sauce, place in a gratin dish, and top with additional cheese.
  4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and browned on top.

💡 Note: Gratins are always a hit at gatherings, offering that elegant touch to any meal.

Parmesan-Crusted Creamed Onion Au Gratin

Overview: If you’re looking for a dish that’s both indulgent and packed with flavor, this parmesan-crusted variation will not disappoint.

• Ingredients: Pearl onions, parmesan cheese, butter, heavy cream, flour, garlic, white wine, breadcrumbs, and parsley.
• Preparation:
  1. Parboil onions, then slice in half.
  2. Create a creamy sauce with garlic, wine, and cream. Add onions to coat.
  3. Layer in a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and parmesan.
  4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until the crust is golden brown.

💡 Note: A light sprinkle of paprika over the crust can add both flavor and color.

Incorporating creamed onions into your meal repertoire brings a touch of elegance and depth of flavor that can transform any dinner from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you opt for the simplicity of the classic version or decide to pair it with other savory ingredients like mushrooms or leeks, the versatility of this dish ensures it can cater to various palates. Experiment with the recipes, adjust flavors to your liking, and enjoy the comforting warmth that creamed onions bring to your table.

Can I use regular onions instead of pearl onions for these dishes?

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While pearl onions offer a unique sweetness and delicate texture, you can indeed use regular onions. Dice or slice them to mimic the size of pearl onions, but be aware that their flavor might be slightly stronger.

How do I store and reheat creamed onions?

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Store creamed onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating.

What main courses pair well with creamed onions?

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Creamed onions complement a variety of mains, from roasted turkey or chicken to steak, pork chops, or even fish like salmon. They provide a creamy contrast to savory or grilled dishes.