Save to Pinterest A sweet, tender Vidalia onion roasted whole until meltingly soft, with aromatic herbs and butter. This simple yet elegant side dish is perfect for elevating any meal and will impress both family and guests.
I first made Onion Boil for a potluck and there was not a single bite left. The slow-roasted onions become so meltingly tender, they win over even non-onion lovers.
Ingredients
- Vidalia onions: 4 large (or other sweet onions), unpeeled
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp
- Fresh thyme: 4 sprigs
- Garlic: 4 cloves, peeled
- Kosher salt: 1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim Onions:
- Trim the root ends and tops so the onions sit flat, leaving skins on.
- Score Tops:
- Use a paring knife to cut a shallow X into the top of each onion.
- Season Onions:
- Place each onion on foil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Add Aromatics:
- Press 1 tbsp butter, 1 sprig thyme, and 1 garlic clove into the cut top of each onion.
- Wrap & Bake:
- Wrap each onion tightly in foil and set on a baking sheet. Roast for 1 hour 10 minutes until tender.
- Finish & Serve:
- Carefully unwrap, remove skins, and transfer onions to plates. Spoon melted butter from the foil over each and sprinkle with parsley, if desired.
Save to Pinterest My kids love peeling off the golden roasted skins at the table and spooning up the buttery onions as a weekend treat.
Serving Suggestions
Onion Boil pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as a vegetarian main course alongside crusty bread.
Flavor Variations
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or sprinkle smoked paprika into the foil for extra complexity.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven or microwave. The onions also freeze surprisingly well for future meals.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy serving these whole roasted onions as a memorable side that elevates even the simplest meal. Their gentle sweetness and herby aroma make them irresistible.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of onions work best for this dish?
Sweet onions like Vidalia, Walla Walla, or Maui are ideal for their natural sweetness and tender texture when roasted.
- → How do you prepare the onions before roasting?
Trim the root ends and tops so they sit flat, cut a shallow X at the top, then season with salt, pepper, butter, thyme, and garlic before wrapping in foil.
- → Can I add other flavors to the onions?
Yes, a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
- → What is the best way to check doneness?
Roast until the onions are very tender when pierced with a knife, typically about 1 hour and 10 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- → Are there any garnish recommendations?
Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the roasted onions.
- → Can this be made dairy-free?
Replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil to accommodate dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor.