🧅 Creamy Baked Onions with Asiago Cheese
Description
This Creamy Baked Onions with Asiago Cheese recipe transforms humble onions into a rich, melt-in-your-mouth side dish. Tender, sweet onions are baked in a creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs, then topped with golden, bubbly Asiago cheese. Perfect for holiday dinners, steak nights, or any meal where you want a luxurious yet easy side. The balance of caramelized sweetness from the onions and the sharp nuttiness of Asiago creates a truly irresistible combination.
Ingredients
Serves 6
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4 large yellow or sweet onions, peeled and sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, but adds warmth)
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1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
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1 cup shredded Asiago cheese (divided; can substitute with Gruyère or Parmesan)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
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1 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional, for crisp texture)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium baking dish with butter or olive oil.
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Prepare the onions: In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion slices and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and turn golden.
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Add garlic and seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add the cream: Pour in the cream and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to let flavors meld.
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Assemble the dish: Transfer the onions and cream mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half the Asiago cheese evenly over the top and stir lightly to mix.
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Top and bake: Add the remaining Asiago and Parmesan cheese on top (and breadcrumbs if using). Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
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Use sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla) for a naturally milder, caramelized flavor.
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If you prefer less richness, swap half the cream for whole milk or chicken broth.
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Gruyère or Fontina also pair beautifully with Asiago.
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This dish can be made a day ahead — just cover, refrigerate, and reheat at 350°F until hot.
Tips
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Slice onions evenly so they cook uniformly.
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To enhance flavor, roast the onions for 15 minutes before baking in the cream mixture.
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For a gluten-free version, skip breadcrumbs or use crushed gluten-free crackers.
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Sprinkle crispy fried onions on top for extra crunch and contrast.
Servings
6 servings — great as a side dish for roasted meats, poultry, or vegetarian mains.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 240
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Protein: 7g
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Carbohydrates: 14g
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Fat: 18g
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Saturated Fat: 10g
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Cholesterol: 45mg
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Sodium: 260mg
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 5g
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits
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Onions are rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
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Asiago cheese provides calcium and protein for strong bones and muscles.
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Thyme and garlic add immune-boosting properties while enhancing flavor naturally.
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Using olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats.
Q&A Section
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
Q2: Can I freeze it?
Yes, bake it first, cool completely, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat covered at 350°F until hot.
Q3: What pairs well with this dish?
It’s wonderful alongside roast chicken, steak, lamb, or even served over mashed potatoes or rice.
Q4: Can I make it vegan?
Yes — use plant-based butter, non-dairy cream (like cashew or oat), and vegan cheese alternatives.
Q5: How can I add more flavor?
Add a splash of white wine or vegetable broth to the cream mixture, or sprinkle crispy bacon bits before baking.