Brown Sugar-Baked Onions
Sweet and savory baked onions with brown sugar, topped with parsley, offering a tender, caramelized flavor perfect as a side dish for special occasions or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the onions and scoop out a small hole in the top of each.
- Place the onions in a glass baking dish.
- Put approximately one rounded tablespoon of brown sugar into the hollow of each onion.
- Dot each onion with margarine.
- Microwave loosely covered with waxed paper on High for 8 to 10 minutes or until tender, basting with pan juices twice.
- Sprinkle the onions with chopped parsley.
- Let stand for 3 minutes before serving.
- Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or a few herbs like thyme or rosemary to the brown sugar mixture. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, substitute margarine with a plant-based butter. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the onions; larger onions may require additional time to become tender.
Serving Suggestions
These brown sugar-baked onions make a delightful side dish and pair beautifully with roasted meats or grilled vegetables. Consider serving them alongside a fresh Cup Salad for a refreshing contrast. They also work well as a topping for baked potatoes or mixed into grain bowls for added sweetness and depth.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely to retain moisture, then microwave on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brown Sugar-Baked Onions contains roughly 539 calories, with 2g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value) and potassium (10% 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 use other types of onions for this recipe?
While sweet onions are recommended for their natural sweetness, you can experiment with other varieties such as yellow or white onions. However, keep in mind that they may not be as sweet, and you might want to adjust the amount of brown sugar accordingly.
What can I serve with brown sugar-baked onions?
These onions pair well with various dishes, including roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even as a topping for burgers. They also complement vegetarian dishes nicely, making them versatile enough for any main course. Consider serving them with a refreshing salad to balance the sweetness.
Can I prepare these onions in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the onions ahead of time by hollowing them out and filling them with brown sugar and margarine. Cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply microwave or bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if coming straight from the fridge.
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).