Baked Onion Custard
Creamy baked onion custard features tender onions in a rich custard topped with bread crumbs, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for brunch or light dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat peanut oil in a large skillet.
- Add chopped onion and 1/4 cup light cream; cook over low heat until onions are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Measure 1/4 cup of the onion mixture into each of the 9 custard cups.
- Beat eggs, remaining cream, salt, and pepper until light.
- Pour an equal amount (about 2 1/2 tablespoons) of the egg mixture over each cup of onions.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs on top of each custard.
- Set custard cups in a pan of hot water and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes, or until custard is set and firm.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider caramelizing the onions for a bit longer before adding the cream. You can substitute olive oil for peanut oil if preferred or use half-and-half instead of light cream for a richer custard. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs or omit them entirely for a lighter finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked onion custard hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. It also makes a great side dish alongside roasted meats or vegetarian entrees, enhancing any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the custards in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave them on low power for a few minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Onion Custard contains roughly 1378 calories, with 19g protein, 220g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1386mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this custard ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the custard cups in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?
For a vegan alternative, you can use silken tofu blended until smooth or a commercial egg replacer. Adjust the liquid accordingly to maintain the custard’s texture.
How do I know when the custard is done baking?
The custard is done when it is set and slightly firm to the touch. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the custard is ready to be removed from the oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).