These cheesy baked onion stacks are a delightful appetizer or side dish. Sweet onions are layered with cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then baked until tender and golden. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia or Walla Walla)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions:
- Prepare the Onions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel the onions and cut them in half through the root.
- Carefully separate the layers of each onion half, keeping the layers intact as much as possible.
- Combine the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, olive oil, thyme, parsley, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
- Assemble the Stacks:
- Take a large onion layer and place a spoonful of the cheese mixture inside.
- Place another layer on top and add more cheese mixture.
- Continue layering until you have a stack about 2-3 inches high.
- Repeat the process with the rest of the onion layers and cheese mixture.
- If you have very small onion layers, they can be added to the larger stacks.
- If you have a few breadcrumb cheese mixture left over, you can sprinkle it over the tops of the stacks.
- Bake the Stacks:
- Place the onion stacks in a baking dish.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- If the tops are not golden enough, you can broil them for the last two minutes of baking. Watch them closely so they do not burn.
- Serve:
- Let the onion stacks cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses.
- Add cooked crumbled bacon or sausage to the cheese mixture.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
- For a sharper flavor, add a small amount of dijon mustard to the cheese mixture.
- Using a muffin tin can help keep the stacks from falling over.
Enjoy your delicious cheesy baked onion stacks! Sources and related content