Pin A sweet, tender Vidalia onion roasted whole until meltingly soft, with aromatic herbs and butter: a simple yet elegant side dish.
I first made Onion Boil for a family gathering and everyone was stunned: how could something so simple taste so wonderful? It quickly became a requested side at holiday meals.
Ingredients
- Vidalia onions (or other sweet 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
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Onions:
- Trim the root ends and tops of each onion to sit flat, leaving skins on.
- Cut X:
- Use a paring knife to slice a shallow X into the top of each onion.
- Season:
- Place onions on heavy-duty foil squares. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Stuff Aromatics:
- Press 1 tbsp butter, 1 sprig thyme, and 1 garlic clove into each onion top.
- Wrap & Bake:
- Wrap onions tightly in foil and set on a baking sheet. Roast 1 hour 10 minutes, until very tender.
- Finish & Serve:
- Carefully unwrap, remove skins, and transfer to plates. Spoon any melted butter over and garnish with parsley if desired.
Pin My kids love helping peel the roasted onions and spooning the buttery jus over each serving. Sharing this comforting dish at the table always brings everyone together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Onion Boil alongside roast meats or with grilled vegetables. As a vegetarian main, enjoy with crusty bread and a crisp salad.
Flavor Variations
Try substituting Vidalia onions with Walla Walla or Maui, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar or smoked paprika before baking for bold flavor twists.
Nutrition & Allergens
Each serving contains about 130 calories, 7 g fat, 19 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein. Always check ingredients for hidden allergens—use dairy-free alternatives as needed.
Pin This side dish proves that the simplest ingredients can create memorable flavors. Bring Onion Boil to your next gathering for a surprisingly elegant touch.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of onion works best for this dish?
Sweet onions like Vidalia, Walla Walla, or Maui are ideal due to their mild flavor and natural sweetness that intensifies when roasted.
- → Can I add other herbs besides thyme?
Yes, herbs such as rosemary or sage can be used to add different aromatic profiles that complement the sweetness of the onions.
- → How do I know when the onions are done roasting?
The onions should be very tender and easily pierced with a knife, indicating they are soft and fully cooked through.
- → Is butter necessary for this preparation?
Butter enriches the flavor and moisture, but it can be substituted with olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- → How should I serve the onions after roasting?
Carefully unwrap, remove the skins, then spoon any melted butter over the onions. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.