There’s something truly comforting about the scent of onions baking in the oven. The aroma fills the kitchen, welcoming everyone home with warmth. I first discovered this Onion Bake with Butter and Herbs recipe during a cozy family gathering. My aunt made it, and we all couldn’t help but savor those soft, flavorful onions paired with herbs and rich butter. This dish matters to me because it brings people together, creating memories around the dinner table. It’s special because it’s simple yet packed with flavor, making it perfect as a side dish or even an appetizer.

why make this recipe

You should make this recipe because it enhances the humble onion into something extraordinary. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful dish that pairs well with any meal. It’s also a fantastic way to impress guests or treat your family to something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of butter, herbs, and sweet onions creates a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist.

how to make Onion Bake with Butter and Herbs

Ingredients

6 medium size to small size sweet onions
1 stick of salted butter (8 tablespoons)
Garlic Salt
Onion Powder
Black Pepper
Dried Parsley
Cajun Seasoning
Paprika
6 to 8 cloves of garlic
A couple of shakes of soy sauce
Measurements for spices and herbs are to be eyeballed

Directions

Cut the tops and ends off the onions, then peel them, removing the single outer layer.
Use a small knife or an apple corer to core out the center of each onion, leaving the bottom intact to hold the butter.
Cut the butter into small cubes.
Place the onions in a small baking dish, keeping them close together.
Season the tops and the holes of the onions well with garlic salt, onion powder, black pepper, dried parsley, Cajun seasoning, and paprika (use paprika sparingly).
Press 2 to 3 cubes of butter into the centers.
Melt the remaining butter and mix it with the same seasonings. Pour this butter over each onion.
Add the cloves of garlic to the bottom of the baking dish and drizzle a couple of shakes of soy sauce on top of each onion.
Cover the dish with a single piece of foil.
Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Oven temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on the baking time depending on the size of your onions.
The onions are done when they are soft but still intact, and the tops are golden brown.
Serve by adding a garlic clove to the center of each onion and pouring some butter sauce over the top.

how to serve Onion Bake with Butter and Herbs

This dish can be served as a delightful side to any roasted meat, complementing the flavors beautifully. It also works well as an appetizer when served alongside crusty toasted bread and a touch of goat cheese.

how to store Onion Bake with Butter and Herbs

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Store the onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them back in the oven or microwave until warm.

tips to make Onion Bake with Butter and Herbs

Choose sweet onions for a milder and palatable flavor.
Experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preference; try adding thyme or rosemary for a different twist.
Make sure not to overstuff the onions with butter; just enough to enhance their flavor without spilling over.

variation

You can easily add other ingredients like cheese, bacon bits, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a unique taste. Feel free to adapt the recipe to fit your personal preference or dietary needs!

FAQs

Can I use yellow onions instead of sweet onions? Yes, you can use yellow onions, but the flavor will be stronger and less sweet.
How long does it take to cook larger onions? Larger onions may require additional baking time. Keep checking them until they are soft.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the onions and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just add baking time if they are coming straight from the fridge.