Hey y'all! If you're craving a side dish that's both comforting and loaded with flavor, these melting onions are about to become your new favorite. They’re buttery, caramelized perfection–soft on the inside, golden on the outside, and smothered in your choice of toppings. Whether you're throwing a backyard barbecue, hosting a holiday dinner, or just looking to jazz up a weeknight meal, this recipe delivers. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture makes these onions absolutely irresistible.
- Fully customizable with your favorite toppings for endless flavor possibilities.
- Simple ingredients and minimal prep means it’s beginner-friendly.
- Perfect as a savory side or a show-stopping appetizer for any occasion.
- Beautiful presentation with golden, caramelized layers.
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, peeled and sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheese of choice)
- ⅓ cup crispy bacon bits
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- Optional: ¼ cup sour cream, for serving
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Onions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil. Arrange the onion slices in a single layer, keeping rings intact.
Step 2: Butter and Season
Brush the onions generously with melted butter and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
Step 3: Roast
Roast the onions uncovered for 25 minutes, until they begin to soften and turn golden.
Step 4: Add Broth & Finish Roasting
Pour the broth around the onions (not on top), then return to the oven. Roast another 25-30 minutes, or until the onions are tender and caramelized, and most liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Add Toppings & Broil
Sprinkle the onions with shredded cheese and bacon bits. Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh chives, and serve hot with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Notes
- For perfectly intact onion rounds, slice through the root end and use a sharp knife.
- Use parchment under the onion slices for easier cleanup.
- Don’t skip the broth–it’s key for that 'melting' texture!
Variations
- Tex-Mex: Swap mozzarella for pepper jack and top with jalapeños and chopped cilantro.
- Classic French: Add grated gruyère cheese and a sprinkle of herbs de Provence.
- Vegetarian: Omit bacon and add crispy toasted breadcrumbs or candied pecans.
Required Equipment
- Oven
- Sharp knife
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Pastry brush
- Broiler (optional, for finishing)
Storage Instructions
Store leftover melting onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or microwave until warmed through.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or juicy burgers for a flavor-packed side.
- Try alongside creamy mashed potatoes or over toasted sourdough bread.
- Top with extra fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.
Pro Tips
- Keep the onion slices thick so they hold their shape while roasting.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the onions room to caramelize.
- Add toppings just before broiling for fresh, melty results every time.
FAQ
Q: Can I use red onions instead of yellow?
A: Yes, red onions will work and bring a sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
Q: Can I make these onions ahead of time?
A: Absolutely, prep and roast the onions ahead, then add toppings and broil just before serving.
Q: What if I don't have a broiler?
A: Simply increase your oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) for the last few minutes to melt the cheese.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet onions
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cooked, crumbled bacon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
-
1Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the tops and bottoms of the onions, peel, and cut into thick rounds (about 1 inch thick).
-
2Arrange onion rounds in a single layer in a large baking dish. Brush both sides with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
-
3Pour chicken broth into the baking dish, around (not over) the onions. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
-
4Remove foil, turn onions over, and spoon a little broth on top of each. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes until onions are soft and caramelized.
-
5Top each onion round with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon; return to the oven and bake for 5 more minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
6Garnish with chopped chives and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!
Leave a Reply