Save A sweet, tender Vidalia onion roasted whole until meltingly soft, with aromatic herbs and butter—a simple yet elegant side dish.
I first made this Onion Boil for a cozy family dinner, and it won everyone's hearts with its incredible aroma and buttery texture.
Ingredients
- Vidalia onions: 4 large, unpeeled
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp
- Fresh thyme: 4 sprigs
- Garlic: 4 cloves, peeled
- Kosher salt: 1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp
- Fresh parsley (optional): 2 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim Onions:
- Trim just the root ends and tops so onions sit flat, leaving skins on.
- Core & Season:
- Cut a shallow X into the top of each onion. Place each onion on a square of heavy-duty foil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Add Flavorings:
- Press 1 tbsp butter, 1 sprig thyme, and 1 garlic clove into the cut top of each onion.
- Wrap & Bake:
- Wrap each onion tightly in foil and set on a baking sheet. Roast for 1 hour 10 minutes, until onions are very tender.
- Finish & Serve:
- Carefully unwrap, remove skins, and transfer to plates. Spoon over any melted butter from the foil and sprinkle with parsley if desired.
Save We shared this dish around the table last Sunday, and even the kids couldn't resist the savory sweetness wrapped inside each onion.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these roasted onions with grilled meat, serve alongside roasted vegetables, or enjoy as a main course with crusty bread.
Ingredient Swaps
Try a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. Maui or Walla Walla onions are also great substitutions.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy from butter. Substitute with vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free version, and always check labels carefully.
Save This Onion Boil is sure to impress at any meal. Enjoy the subtle sweetness and rich aroma in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of onions work best for this dish?
Sweet onions like Vidalia, Walla Walla, or Maui are ideal because of their natural sweetness and tender texture when roasted.
- → How do I know when the onions are fully cooked?
The onions are done when they become very tender and can be easily pierced with a knife, typically after about 1 hour 10 minutes roasting.
- → Can I add other seasonings to enhance flavor?
Yes, options like balsamic vinegar or smoked paprika can be added before roasting to add depth and a hint of smokiness.
- → Is it necessary to keep the onion skins on during cooking?
Keeping the skins on helps retain moisture and softness inside. They should be removed after roasting before serving.
- → What are good serving suggestions for this side?
These roasted onions pair well with grilled vegetables, roast meats, or can accompany a vegetarian main with crusty bread.
- → Are there dairy-free alternatives for the butter used?
Yes, vegan butter or olive oil can be substituted to accommodate dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor.