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### Instructions for Making Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions
#### 1. **Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Onions**
Start by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. This high temperature is ideal for roasting the onions, allowing them to caramelize and bring out their natural sweetness.
Cut the **onions** into thick wedges, ensuring that each wedge holds together. Drizzle them with **olive oil**, then season with **salt**, **pepper**, and **garlic powder** (if using). Toss the onions gently to coat them evenly in the oil and seasoning.
Spread the onion wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re not crowded so they can roast evenly.
#### 2. **Roast the Onions**
Place the onions in the preheated oven and roast for **25-30 minutes**, flipping them halfway through. You want the onions to become golden-brown and tender. The edges will caramelize slightly, and the center will become soft and sweet. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside.
#### 3. **Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce**
While the onions are roasting, it’s time to prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the **butter** over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the **flour** and whisk continuously to create a smooth paste (this is called a roux). Let the roux cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to thicken.
Slowly pour in the **heavy cream**, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken for 3-4 minutes. Add the **Parmesan cheese**, **thyme**, and **nutmeg** (if using), and continue to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
#### 4. **Assemble the Dish**
Once the onions are roasted and the creamy sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the dish. Arrange the roasted onion wedges in a baking dish, slightly overlapping them if necessary. Pour the **creamy Parmesan sauce** evenly over the onions, making sure to cover them generously.
#### 5. **Bake and Finish**
To finish the dish, sprinkle extra **Parmesan cheese** on top of the onions and sauce. This will give the dish a crispy, cheesy crust as it bakes.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for an additional **10-15 minutes**, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. You can also broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end if you want an extra crispy finish.
#### 6. **Serve and Enjoy**
Once the Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions are golden and bubbly, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color, if desired.
### Tips for Success
– **Use Yellow or Sweet Onions**: Yellow onions or sweet onions (such as Vidalia) work best for this recipe, as they are naturally sweeter and caramelize well during roasting.
– **Adjust Creaminess**: If you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce, you can adjust the amount of heavy cream or flour. For a richer texture, add a bit more cheese.
– **Add Extra Flavor**: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other herbs and spices such as rosemary, oregano, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
– **Make Ahead**: This dish can be prepared in advance! You can roast the onions and make the creamy sauce ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving.
### Why This Dish Works So Well
**Roasting** the onions brings out their natural sweetness, and when combined with the **creamy Parmesan sauce**, they become a delightful indulgence. The richness of the cheese and cream balances the savory depth of the roasted onions, while the crisp topping adds a satisfying texture to each bite. The addition of **garlic powder** and **thyme** rounds out the flavor profile, giving it a fragrant, herby note.
This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a holiday meal and pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef. It’s also a great addition to a Thanksgiving or Christmas spread, adding a comforting, creamy side to balance out the other savory dishes.
### Conclusion: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s full of flavor, **Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions** is the perfect choice. With its combination of sweet roasted onions, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping, this dish is bound to become a new favorite at your table. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to impress your guests.
So, next time you’re planning a meal and want to add something extra special, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
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