Baked whole onions: roasted onion in foil recipe

Indulge in the Savory Simplicity of Baked Whole Onions

Baked onion recipe – Get ready to elevate your side dish game with these mouthwatering baked whole onions. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of Vidalia onions with savory bouillon and butter, all wrapped up in a cozy foil packet for easy baking. It’s a dish that’s not only incredibly delicious but also impressively simple to prepare. 

With just a baking dish, tinfoil and a few onions you can create a flavorful side dish that’s perfect for everyday life and special occasions. We’re talking the ultimate delicious side dish full of buttery roast onions. That sweet taste of golden brown onions, soft, melty and irresistibly full of flavor! It’s one of those side dish recipes you will be making on repeat.

Best Onion side dish recipe

This versatile onion casserole can be made as oven-roasted onion recipe, in the air fryer, on the grill and more. But it’s not just a delicious versatile recipe where you can pick the cooking process that fits your needs, it’s also a great roast onions recipe for a low-carb diet. It’s one of those magical healthy recipes that taste sinfully good! But you can actually enjoy this onions recipe whether you’re on a Weight Watchers diet, Keto diet, Whole30 meal plan or you need a dairy-free vegan meal that the whole family will enjoy and add to their favorite recipes list!

Each onion is carefully prepped by creating a flavorful cavity filled with a vegetable bouillon cube and butter, seasoned to perfection with a hint of salt and pepper. The foil wrap ensures that every ounce of flavor stays locked in, resulting in tender, caramelized onions that practically melt in your mouth.

Whole Vidalia Onions Easy recipe 

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a standout side dish for a special occasion, these baked whole onions are sure to steal the show. Their rich, savory flavor pairs beautifully with a wide range of main courses, from hearty sweet potatoes, your favorite casserole dish, to light salads, making them a versatile addition to any meal. With a handful of simple ingredients, this great recipe creates delicious buttery onions in a few simple steps. 

Prepare to be amazed by how effortlessly these onions come together, transforming into a dish that’s as impressive in taste as it is easy to make. Perfectly suited for both cozy weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings, these baked whole onions promise to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Enjoy preparing and savoring these delightful baked whole onions!

Baked onion recipe ingredients 

To make whole baked onions, here are the ingredients you will need:

1. Vidalia Onions (or any sweet onion variety):

   – Choose onions that are medium to large in size, as they will be easier to stuff and bake. Alternatively, you can use any variety of onions you prefer to make this easy onions recipe that taste like buttery onion dip!

2. Vegetable Bouillon Cube:

   – Use a standard-sized bouillon cube. This adds savory flavor to the onions. Using vegetable bouillon cubes gives the sauteed onions a delicious flavor almost reminiscent of French onion soup. Just press the vegetable bouillon into the center of each onion. It’s the best way to get the flavor to infuse throughout the raw onions as they cook.

3. Butter:

   – Approximately 1-2 tablespoons of butter per onion, for richness and flavor. Alternatively, you can use vegan butter or substitute with vegetable oil of your choice. Either option will give you buttery thick slices of delicious onions recipe.

4. Salt and Pepper:

   – To season the butter mixture and enhance the flavors of the onions.

5. Optional additional Seasonings:

   – Herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be added to the butter mixture for additional flavor. I like to add a generous seasoning of Italian herb blend or Herbs de Provence to the foil packets before closing them. Adjust according to your preference.

That’s all you need to create delicious whole baked onions! Optionally, you can add other ingredients like garlic, different herbs, or even cheese to customize the flavor to your liking. 

Note: a drizzle of balsamic vinegar is the best way to get depth of flavor and amazing Caramelized natural sweetness throughout the roasted onions. Sherry vinegar will also enhance the flavor of the Vidalia onion recipe.

Enjoy experimenting with different combinations to find your favorite variation!

Best Onion options for making whole baked onions 

If Vidalia onions are not available, there are several good substitutes you can use to make baked whole onions:

1. Sweet Onions (such as Walla Walla or Maui Onions):

   – These varieties are known for their mild, sweet flavor and tend to caramelize beautifully when roasted. They are the closest in flavor profile to Vidalia onions and will work well in this baked onion recipe.

2. Spanish Onions:

   – Spanish onions are another good option. While they have a slightly stronger flavor compared to Vidalia onions, they still roast well and can be used interchangeably in most recipes.

3. Texas Sweet Onions:

   – Texas sweet onions, such as 1015 or Texas Super Sweet, are similar to Vidalia onions in terms of sweetness and mild flavor. They are ideal for roasting and will yield delicious results.

4. Yellow Onions:

   – Yellow onions are more widely available and have a stronger flavor than sweet onions. While they won’t be as sweet as Vidalia onions, they can still be used for baking whole. Consider adding a bit of honey or brown sugar to enhance their sweetness.

5. Red Onions:

   – Red onions have a slightly different flavor profile with a hint of mild sweetness. They can be roasted whole, but their color will darken during cooking, which may affect the final presentation.

When substituting onions, keep in mind that the sweetness and flavor intensity may vary, so adjust seasoning and cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired taste. Experiment with different onion varieties to find your favorite for making baked whole onions!

Tips for making whole roasted onions in foil 

    1.    Grill Them:

    •    If you’re already grilling other items, like vegetables or vegan meats, placing the foil-wrapped onion pouches on the grill is a convenient way to cook them alongside. The indirect heat from the grill will slowly roast the onions, infusing them with smoky flavors. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on your grill’s temperature and the size of the onions.

    2.    Big Batch Cooking:

    •    When preparing onions for a larger group, using a 13 x 9 pan allows you to roast several onions at once. After seasoning the onions with butter and spices, tightly cover the pan with foil to trap moisture and flavor. Roast the onions until they are nearly tender. For added caramelization and texture, uncover the pan and broil the onions briefly at the end of cooking. This step gives them a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining their tender interior.

    3.    Seasoning:

    •    Enhance the flavor of your baked whole onions by adding a drizzle of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce before sealing them in foil. These sauces add depth and umami to the onions, complementing their natural sweetness. Sprinkle with a bit of paprika for a touch of smokiness and color. Adjust the amount of seasoning to your taste preference for a perfectly balanced dish.

Extra tips

    4.    Toppings:

    •    Take your baked onions to the next level by adding cheese during or after cooking. Once the onions are tender and caramelized, sprinkle grated cheese such as cheddar or Parmesan over the top. Return the onions to the oven or broil briefly until the cheese melts and forms a golden crust. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, serve the baked onions with a garnish of fried onions or crispy shallots. This combination of creamy cheese and crunchy toppings adds a delicious contrast to the soft onions.

    5.    Add Garlic:

    •    Roasting garlic cloves alongside the onions is a fantastic way to infuse them with aromatic flavor. Simply place whole garlic cloves in the foil packet with the onions before sealing. As the onions bake, the garlic cloves will soften and caramelize, becoming sweet and creamy. Squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skin and mix it with the onions for an extra burst of savory goodness.

These tips not only enhance the flavor of baked whole onions but also offer creative ways to customize and elevate this simple yet delicious dish. Whether you’re grilling, batch cooking, experimenting with seasonings, adding toppings, or including garlic, each method brings out the best in the onions, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

Baked whole onion in foil recipe

Enjoy the rich, sweet flavor of roasted Vidalia onions with this easy air fryer recipe. Infused with savory bouillon and seasoned butter, these tender onions make a perfect side dish or flavorful addition to any meal. Simple to prepare and bursting with taste, they’re sure to be a hit!

Baked vidalia onions ingredients:

• 4 vidalia onions, or regular 
• 4 (4 gram) vegetable bouillon cubes
• 4-8 tablespoons coconut oil or butter 
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme 
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 teaspoon ground black pepper 

How to bake Whole roasted onions in foil 

These delicious whole baked onions are great in the oven, air fryer or on the grill. 

Note: Big Batch Cooking:

• When preparing onions for a larger group, using a 13 x 9 pan allows you to roast several onions at once. After seasoning the onions with butter and spices, tightly cover the pan with foil to trap moisture and flavor. Roast the onions until they are nearly tender. For added caramelization and texture, uncover the pan and broil the onions briefly at the end of cooking. This step gives them a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining their tender interior.

Baking Caramelized whole onions in oven instructions 

1.    Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F.

2.    Prepare the Onion: Peel the onion, leaving the root intact. If the onion doesn’t sit flat, trim the root slightly to create a stable base.

3.    Cut the Onion: Using a paring knife, cut a 1-inch deep cone shape into the top of the onion.

4.    Add Bouillon and Butter: Place a vegetable bouillon cube into the hole and fill the rest with 1-2 tablespoons of butter. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and thyme.

5.    Wrap in Foil: Place the onion on a large piece of foil. Wrap the foil around the onion, twisting the top to seal it completely. Put the wrapped onion on a baking sheet.

6.    Bake: Cook in the oven for 45-60 minutes, until the onion is tender. Serve warm.

How to make Baked vidalia onions in air fryer 

1.    Preheat the Air Fryer:

• Set your air fryer to 350°F and let it preheat for a few minutes.

2.    Prepare the Onion:

• Peel the onion, leaving the root intact.
• If the onion doesn’t sit flat, trim the root slightly to create a stable base.

3.    Cut the Onion:

• Use a paring knife to cut a 1-inch deep cone shape into the top of the onion.

4.    Add Bouillon and Butter:

• Insert a vegetable bouillon cube into the hole.
• Fill the rest of the hole with 1-2 tablespoons of butter.
• Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.

5.    Wrap in Foil:

• Place the filled onion on a large piece of foil.
• Wrap the foil around the onion, twisting the top to seal it completely.

6.    Air Fry:

• Place the foil-wrapped onion in the air fryer basket.
• Cook at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, or until the onion is tender. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the onion and your specific air fryer model, so check for tenderness.

7.    Serve:

• Carefully remove the onion from the air fryer, unwrap the foil, and serve warm. Enjoy your deliciously roasted Vidalia onion!

Baked onion recipe variations 

1. Cheese-Stuffed Onions:

    •    After adding the bouillon and butter, fill the hole with a mix of your favorite vegan cheese shreds for a creamy, cheesy flavor.

2. Herb Butter Onions:

    •    Mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and dill before stuffing the onion. This adds a burst of fresh herb flavor.

3. Balsamic Glazed Onions:

    •    Drizzle the onions with a tablespoon of balsamic glaze or reduction before wrapping them in foil for a sweet and tangy twist.

4. Spicy Onions:

    •    Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter for a kick of heat.

5. Garlic and Thyme Onions:

    •    Along with the butter, add a couple of minced garlic cloves and a few sprigs of fresh thyme for a robust, aromatic flavor.

6. Mushroom-Stuffed Onions:

    •    Sauté some finely chopped mushrooms and mix them with the butter and bouillon before stuffing the onions for an earthy addition.

More delicious recipe variations

7. Lemon and Rosemary Onions:

    •    Add a teaspoon of lemon zest and a sprig of fresh rosemary to the onion cavity for a zesty and fragrant variation.

8. Pesto Onions:

    •    Mix a tablespoon of pesto with the butter before stuffing the onion for a rich, herby flavor.

9. Honey Mustard Onions:

    •    Combine a teaspoon of Dijon mustard with a teaspoon of honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option) and mix with the butter for a sweet and tangy glaze.

10. Savory and Sweet Onions:

    •    Add a tablespoon of maple syrup and a pinch of smoked paprika to the butter for a sweet, smoky flavor profile.

Add-In Ideas:

1. Grains and Seeds:

    •    Sprinkle the onions with toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts for added crunch.

2. Dried Fruits:

    •    Add chopped dried apricots or raisins to the butter mix for a sweet contrast.

3. Crumbled Tofu or Tempeh:

    •    Sauté crumbled tofu or tempeh with spices and mix with the butter for a protein boost.

4. Chopped Vegetables:

    •    Mix finely chopped bell peppers, tomatoes, or spinach into the butter for extra veggies.

These variations and add-ins can help you customize your roasted Vidalia onions to suit your taste preferences and make each meal unique and delicious!

Here are some delicious ways to serve baked whole onions, keeping it vegetarian:

    1.    As a Side Dish: Serve the baked whole onions alongside grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. The sweet and savory flavors of the onions complement the smokiness of the grilled vegetables perfectly. These delicious baked onions are perfect on any holiday table.

    2.    Stuffed with Quinoa and Feta: After baking, hollow out the onions slightly and stuff them with a mixture of cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bake again until the filling is heated through and the cheese melts.

    3.    On a Bed of Creamy Polenta: Serve the baked whole onions on top of a creamy polenta. The soft texture of the polenta contrasts with the caramelized onions, creating a comforting and satisfying dish. It’s the perfect way to get a delicious Italian flavored comfort food meal!

    4.    Alongside Mushroom Risotto: Pair the baked whole onions with a creamy mushroom risotto. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms complement the sweetness of the onions beautifully.

    5.    In a Mediterranean Salad: Chop the baked whole onions and toss them into a Mediterranean-style salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and a lemony vinaigrette. The onions add a burst of flavor and texture to the salad.

    6.    With Roasted Vegetables: Serve the baked whole onions alongside roasted vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts. The combination of caramelized flavors from the onions and vegetables creates a hearty and nutritious meal.

More ways to serve

    7.    On a Veggie Burger: Slice the baked whole onions and use them as a topping for a homemade veggie burger. Add some avocado slices and a dollop of garlic aioli for a delicious vegetarian burger experience.

    8.    As a Filling for Stuffed Peppers: Chop the baked whole onions and use them as a filling for stuffed bell peppers along with cooked rice, black beans, corn, and shredded cheese. Bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.

These ideas showcase the versatility of baked whole onions and how they can enhance various vegetarian dishes with their sweet and savory flavor profile. Enjoy experimenting with these serving suggestions to create memorable vegetarian meals!

How to Store Baked Whole Onions

1. Cool Completely:

   – Allow the baked onions to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

2. Refrigerate:

   – Place the cooled onions in an airtight container. If you have multiple onions, you can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

   – Store the container in the refrigerator. Baked onions can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

3. Freeze (Optional):

   – If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze the baked onions. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the frozen onions to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.

   – Label the container or bag with the date. Frozen baked onions can be stored for up to 3 months.

4. Reheat:

   – When ready to eat, reheat the onions in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave, though this may result in a slightly softer texture. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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Baked onion recipe Tips

Extra Recipe Tips for Baked Whole Onion in Foil

Prep and more Tips

What to serve with Baked whole Vidalia onions

• Vegan chicken nuggets 
• The best black bean burger
• Vegan brisket
• Kidney bean skewers 
• Tofu roast

You can also pair them with a simple salad or vegetable side dish to make a more substantial meal. Some options might include roasted Brussels sprouts, grilled asparagus, or a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Enjoy!