Classic Creamed Pearl Onions
Classic Creamed Pearl Onions
While you typically see creamed pearl onions around the holidays, I’m a firm believer in serving them all year round. Tangy onions in a rich and creamy sauce, toasted to bubbling perfection? What’s not to love! They go beautifully with Thanksgiving favorites like stuffing and mashed potatoes, but I’m also known to serve them with a hearty steak or ham. You really can’t go wrong adding these to your dinner menu.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is incredibly versatile and easy to prepare, making it a perfect side for any occasion. The creamy sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the pearl onions, and the hint of nutmeg adds a warm, comforting flavor. Plus, using frozen onions means less prep time, letting you enjoy more of the meal and less of the fuss.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Large saucepan
- 8×8 baking dish
- Slotted spoon
- Whisk
- Oven
Ingredients
- 24 oz frozen pearl onions
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- ¾ cup vegetable broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and grease an 8×8 baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the frozen onions and simmer for 5-8 minutes or until tender. Drain well.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the heavy cream and vegetable broth to the saucepan while whisking continuously. Let the sauce simmer for another 1-2 minutes over low heat, then stir in the nutmeg.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in ¼ cup of the parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained onions to the sauce and stir until they are fully coated and combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top begins to brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your roux is smooth before adding the liquids to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. A little extra nutmeg can add more depth to the dish.
Additional Tips and Variations
- If you prefer, swap vegetable broth with chicken broth for a slightly richer flavor.
- Add a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist or a handful of green peas for a pop of color.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While exact values can vary, this dish is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of calcium from the parmesan cheese. It’s also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh pearl onions instead of frozen?
Yes, but you’ll need to peel them first. Boiling them for a minute and then transferring them to an ice bath can help make peeling easier.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Conclusion
These Classic Creamed Pearl Onions are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a comforting and savory flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out for you! I’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you’ve added. Bon appétit!
