Description
This comforting Onion Bake features sweet onions cooked in buttery garlic cream, layered with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, and topped with a crispy panko breadcrumb crust. Baked to golden perfection, it makes a flavorful side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 large Onions (Choose sweet varieties like Vidalia)
Dairy
- 2 cups Shredded Cheese (A mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Use unsalted for better control over seasoning)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Rich cream enhances the bake’s texture)
Spices & Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Opt for fresh when possible)
Other
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Provides extra crunch on top)
Instructions
- Preparation: Peel and slice onions into half-moons, aiming for uniform thickness. Gather all other ingredients nearby for a smooth cooking process.
- Saute Onions: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with garlic powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions become translucent and soft, about 10 minutes.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, ensuring the cheese is fully melted and combined.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the onion and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish evenly. In a separate small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter to coat them thoroughly. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the onions.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Allow the onion bake to cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a savory side.
Notes
- Use sweet onions like Vidalia to balance the richness of the cheese and cream.
- Unsalted butter allows you to better control the salt level in the dish.
- For extra flavor, you may add fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder during sautéing.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the bake for the last 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- This bake can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; reheat covered when needed.
