Save to Pinterest A sweet, tender Vidalia onion roasted whole until meltingly soft with aromatic herbs and butter: a simple yet elegant side dish.
The first time I made these onions was for a holiday dinner. They quickly became my family's favorite: perfectly soft and full of rich, herb-infused flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- Vidalia onions: 4 large, unpeeled (can substitute Walla Walla or Maui)
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp for rich flavor and moisture
- Fresh thyme: 4 sprigs to add an aromatic touch
- Garlic: 4 cloves, peeled for earthy taste
- Kosher salt: 1 tsp for seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp for subtle heat
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, optional garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim Onions:
- Trim root ends and tops of each onion so they sit flat but leave skins on.
- Score:
- Use a paring knife to cut a shallow X into the top of each onion.
- Season:
- Place each onion on heavy-duty foil. Sprinkle each with salt and black pepper.
- Add Flavor:
- Press 1 tbsp butter, 1 sprig thyme, and 1 garlic clove into the cut top of each onion.
- Wrap:
- Wrap each onion tightly in foil, set on a baking sheet.
- Roast:
- Roast 1 hour 10 minutes, until tender when pierced with a knife.
- Finish:
- Carefully unwrap, remove skins, and place on serving plates. Spoon melted butter from foil. Sprinkle parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest Sharing these onions at family gatherings has become a tradition. Even picky eaters reach for seconds and love scooping the soft onion layers onto crusty bread.
Serving Suggestions
Pair Onion Boil with roast meats, grilled vegetables, or offer as a vegetarian main alongside warm, crusty bread.
Flavor Variations
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or pinch of smoked paprika before roasting for extra depth and a gentle tang.
Required Tools
Use a baking sheet, heavy-duty aluminum foil, a paring knife, and your oven for effortless preparation.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy Onion Boil hot from the oven: a simple recipe that brings warmth and sweetness to any meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of onions work best for this dish?
Sweet onions like Vidalia, Walla Walla, or Maui are ideal due to their mild, natural sweetness and tender texture after roasting.
- → Why wrap the onions in foil before roasting?
Wrapping in foil traps moisture, allowing the onions to steam and become soft while infusing flavors from butter and herbs.
- → Can I add other seasonings to enhance flavor?
Yes, adding balsamic vinegar or smoked paprika before roasting can introduce additional depth and complexity.
- → How do I know when the onions are fully cooked?
They should be easily pierced with a knife and feel meltingly tender throughout after about 1 hour 10 minutes in the oven.
- → What dishes pair well with roasted Vidalia onions?
They complement roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or work as a flavorful vegetarian accompaniment with crusty bread.