Barbecued Onions
Sweet and savory barbecued onions with bacon and a tangy ketchup glaze, perfect as a flavorful side or appetizer for casual gatherings and outdoor meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Parboil the onions for 4 to 5 minutes, then drain.
- Place the onions in a buttered, shallow, 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Mix the catsup, water, vinegar, salt, and pepper, then spread the mixture over the onions.
- Sprinkle the mixture with brown sugar and top with the cooked, crisp bacon slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, consider using sweet onions instead of white onions. If you're short on time, you can skip parboiling and just roast the onions directly in the casserole. For a smoky twist, try adding a splash of liquid smoke to the sauce. This dish also pairs well with Barbecued Pork Chops In A Skillet for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
These barbecued onions make a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or as a topping for burgers. Serve them alongside a fresh B. L. T. Salad for a balanced meal. They also work well as a flavorful addition to sandwiches or wraps, enhancing any dish with their sweet and smoky taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover barbecued onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, ensuring they don’t become too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Onions contains roughly 350 calories, with 6g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2039mg per serving (89% 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 barbecued onions in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they're heated through.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
For a vegetarian option, consider using smoked paprika or a sprinkle of liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor. You might also use tempeh or coconut bacon for a similar texture and taste without the meat.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar or omit it entirely. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a bit more vinegar to the sauce, creating a tangy contrast that complements the onions.
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).