Creamy Baked Onions with Asiago Cheese

Indulge in the comforting goodness of Asiago Creamy Baked Onions, a dish that marries the sweetness of roasted onions with the rich flavors of Asiago cheese and cream. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between being out of the ordinary and deeply comforting, making it a showstopper that feels just like home. I always turn to this dish whenever I want to elevate a meal with a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of flavor.

The magic of Asiago shines through in this recipe, bringing an unbeatable nutty and savory taste that blends beautifully with the creamy sauce. Just like how my grandma used to sprinkle Asiago over Sunday casseroles, this dish instantly transports me back to cozy family dinners from my childhood. Each bite is a delicious reminder of the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals.

Whether you serve it as a side to roast chicken, pork, or holiday beef, or enjoy it as a standalone vegetarian entrée, these creamy baked onions are sure to impress. With the option to customize ingredients and make-ahead tips, this dish is not only versatile but also a delightful addition to any table. Get ready to savor every bite of this French-inspired American classic that brings a touch of elegance to your dining experience.

Quick Benefits

• Rich and savory flavor profile with the sweetness of roasted onions
• Creamy and comforting texture from the heavy cream and melted Asiago cheese
• Versatile dish that can be adapted with different cheeses and herbs for variety
• Make-ahead option for easy meal planning and entertaining

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Onions with Asiago Cheese Recipe

• The creamy baked onions combine the sweetness of roasted onions with the savory richness of Asiago cheese and cream, creating a unique and comforting side dish that will impress your guests.
• The nutty flavor of Asiago cheese adds unbeatable depth to the dish, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth reminiscent of family-style dinners.
• The dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for ingredient substitutions like Gruyere or sharp provolone, and variations with different herbs and vegetables, making it adaptable to any season or personal preference.
• With easy make-ahead instructions, you can assemble the dish in advance and freeze it for future use, making it a convenient and delicious holiday side dish or a quick meal prep option.
• The dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from roast chicken to grilled sausages, adding a touch of elegance and flavor to any meal.
• Even those who aren’t typically fans of onions have been won over by this dish, making it a surprising and delightful addition to any table or potluck.
• The creamy texture of the sauce, the tender onions, and the melted cheese create a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your guests asking for the recipe and coming back for more.

Ingredients for Creamy Baked Onions with Asiago Cheese

Main

• 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 4 large yellow onions, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
• Olive oil, for drizzling

Cream Sauce

• 1/2 cup Asiago cheese, finely grated
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 cup heavy cream

Pro Tips for Creamy Baked Onions with Asiago Cheese

For the best results with this Asiago Creamy Baked Onions recipe, make sure to slice the onions evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Additionally, using yellow onions will provide a rich and savory flavor profile that stands up well to baking. If you don’t have Asiago cheese on hand, Pecorino Romano or Parmesan are excellent substitutes that offer a similar sharpness.

To customize this dish, feel free to swap out the thyme for fresh chives or tarragon in the spring, or add roasted cherry tomatoes in the summer for extra sweetness. You can also experiment with incorporating thinly sliced apples in the fall for a cozy twist. Remember to let the dish sit for five minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle before serving.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can assemble it completely and freeze it before the final bake. Thaw it fully in the fridge before baking as usual. This makes it a great option for a prep-ahead holiday side or individual portions for future lunches. Serve this flavorful and elegant dish hot alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a refreshing leafy green salad for a complete meal.

How to Make Creamy Baked Onions with Asiago Cheese

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 450°F and lightly grease a baking dish that can hold onion slices in a single layer.

Step 2: Arrange and Season Onions

Place the onion rounds in a baking dish in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Roast Onions

Roast uncovered onions for 20 minutes until softened and edges start to caramelize.

Step 4: Prepare Asiago Cream Sauce

As the onions roast, simmer heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in Dijon mustard and half of the Asiago cheese until smooth and melted.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Evenly pour the cream mixture over the roasted onions. Sprinkle with the remaining Asiago cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes until onions are tender, cheese is melted, and sauce is bubbling.

Storage Tips

Once the Asiago Creamy Baked Onions dish has been prepared and enjoyed, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will keep well for up to three days. When reheating, it’s recommended to gently warm it in a low oven or microwave to maintain the smoothness of the sauce and the tenderness of the onions. For those looking to plan ahead, the entire dish can be assembled a day before and then baked right before serving for optimal freshness.

To add variations to the dish, consider swapping Asiago cheese with Gruyere or sharp provolone for a different flavor profile. If heavy cream is not available, half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative, though it will result in a lighter sauce. Different onion varieties such as Vidalia for a milder taste or yellow onions for better oven durability can also be utilized in this recipe. This versatile dish pairs well with various main courses like roast chicken, pork, or even holiday beef, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have yellow onions on hand, you can opt for sweet or white onions as a suitable substitute. While they may offer a milder flavor, they will still caramelize beautifully and complement the creamy sauce in this dish.

In the absence of Asiago cheese, Pecorino Romano or Parmesan are excellent alternatives that provide a similar sharp and nutty taste. Grate these cheeses finely for a smooth melt into the cream sauce, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.

For a lighter version of this recipe, you can replace the heavy cream with light cream or half-and-half. Adjust the quantity of cheese to your liking to maintain the desired creaminess and flavor profile. This substitution can result in a slightly less dense sauce while still delivering a deliciously creamy texture.

Consider assembling the dish ahead of time and storing it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake and serve. This make-ahead option allows for easy prep and ensures a fresh and flavorful outcome when it’s time to enjoy the creamy baked onions.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of the Asiago Creamy Baked Onions, consider serving them in individual ramekins for a charming and elegant touch. Sprinkle some extra Asiago cheese on top before baking to create a beautiful golden crust that will entice your guests even before they take the first bite. Pair these creamy onions with a crusty baguette or garlic bread on the side to soak up every last bit of the luscious sauce.

For a more casual and cozy presentation, serve the Asiago Creamy Baked Onions in a large baking dish directly from the oven to the table. Let the rich aroma of caramelized onions and melted cheese waft through the air as you scoop out generous portions onto each plate. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy and indulgent flavors of this dish perfectly.

FAQs for Creamy Baked Onions with Asiago Cheese

Can I use sweet or white onions instead of yellow onions in this recipe?

Yes, sweet or white onions can be used, but yellow onions offer a rich, savory flavor ideal for baking.

What can I use as a substitute for Asiago cheese if I can’t find it?

Pecorino Romano or Parmesan are great substitutes if Asiago isn’t available, offering similar sharpness.

Can I use light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream in this recipe?

Yes, you can use light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and adjust the amount of cheese to suit your preference.

Can I prepare this dish in advance, and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance and bake it just before serving for maximum freshness and texture.

Conclusion

As you indulge in the luscious flavors of Asiago Creamy Baked Onions, let the warmth and comfort of this dish envelop you. The blend of sweet roasted onions, nutty Asiago cheese, and creamy sauce is a winning combination that will surely make it a favorite at your table.

Remember, the beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and seasonal additions to make it your own. Whether you serve it as a side to a hearty roast or as the star of a vegetarian feast, Asiago Creamy Baked Onions will always bring a touch of elegance and coziness to your meal. Enjoy every bite and savor the joy of sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones.

Creamy Baked Onions with Asiago Cheese

Creamy Asiago Baked Onions: A savory, rich blend of roasted onions, nutty Asiago cheese, and cream, perfect for an unforgettable side dish.

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Prep Time15 min

Cook Time40 min

Total Time55 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings (serves 6 as a side dish)

Ingredients

Main

• 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 4 large yellow onions, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
• Olive oil, for drizzling

Cream Sauce

• 1/2 cup Asiago cheese, finely grated
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat oven to 450°F and lightly grease a baking dish that can hold onion slices in a single layer.
2. Arrange and Season Onions: Place the onion rounds in a baking dish in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Roast Onions: Roast uncovered onions for 20 minutes until softened and edges start to caramelize.
4. Prepare Asiago Cream Sauce: As the onions roast, simmer heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in Dijon mustard and half of the Asiago cheese until smooth and melted.
5. Assemble and Bake: Evenly pour the cream mixture over the roasted onions. Sprinkle with the remaining Asiago cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes until onions are tender, cheese is melted, and sauce is bubbling.