Old Fashioned Creamed Pearl Onions

Old Fashioned Creamed Pearl Onions offer a comforting and classic side dish that’s perfect for any special meal or holiday gathering. This recipe combines tender, sweet pearl onions with a creamy, flavorful sauce enriched with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.

Baked to golden perfection, it’s a delightful accompaniment that brings a touch of nostalgia to the table. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

Old Fashioned Creamed Pearl Onions

Ingredients

24 ounces Pearl Onions, frozen

3 tbsp butter

3 tbsp flour

¾ cup Vegetable Broth

¾ cup heavy cream

¼ tsp nutmeg

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated and divided

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat to 375* and grease an 8×8 baking dish

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the frozen Pearl Onions

Simmer for 5 to 8 minutes or until tender, Drain

Step 2:

In another Saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and then stir in the flour

While continuously stirring, add in the heavy cream ad the broth

Simmer for 2 minutes and then stir in the nutmeg

Remove from the heat and stir in half of the grated cheese

Season with salt and pepper

Add onions to the sauce and stir to coat and combine well

Transfer the onions to the greased baking dish

Top with the remaining cheese

Step 3:

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top begins to brown

Enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

YIELD: 6 SERVING SIZE: 1

Amount Per Serving:

Notes:

Pearl Onions: Using frozen pearl onions makes preparation easier and ensures they cook evenly in the dish.

Creamy Sauce: The combination of butter, flour, heavy cream, and vegetable broth creates a rich and velvety sauce that coats the pearl onions beautifully.

Flavor Enhancers: Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor to the creamy sauce, complementing the sweetness of the pearl onions.

Cheese: Parmesan cheese not only enriches the sauce but also provides a deliciously savory topping when baked, adding a golden, cheesy crust to the dish.

Preparation: Blanching the pearl onions in boiling water before combining them with the sauce ensures they are tender and ready to absorb flavors during baking.

Baking: Baking the assembled dish allows the flavors to meld together while creating a slightly caramelized top layer of cheese, enhancing both texture and taste.

Seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper to taste before baking to ensure the dish is perfectly seasoned.

Presentation: Serve the Old Fashioned Creamed Pearl Onions hot from the oven as a comforting side dish that pairs well with roasted meats or as part of a holiday feast.

Make-Ahead: This dish can be partially prepared ahead of time by blanching the onions and making the sauce. Assemble just before baking for convenience.

Variations: Experiment with different herbs or spices to personalize the dish, or add breadcrumbs for extra texture on top before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh pearl onions instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh pearl onions.

Simply peel and blanch them in boiling water until tender before proceeding with the recipe.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less creamy.

What can I use instead of vegetable broth?

You can substitute chicken broth or even water, though using broth enhances the overall flavor.

Can I omit the nutmeg?

Yes, you can omit the nutmeg if you prefer.

It adds a subtle flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Use vegetable broth and ensure the cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly (if using Parmesan).

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate.

Bake when ready to serve.

What should I serve with Old Fashioned Creamed Pearl Onions?

It pairs well with roasted meats like chicken or beef, and also complements holiday meals such as Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Cream-based dishes like this may not freeze well due to the texture change in the sauce upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.

Adjust baking time as needed to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.