Cheesy Red Onions
Cheesy Red Onions offer a savory blend of tender, roasted onions filled with melted cheese, perfect as an appetizer or side for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
- 6 large peeled red onions ⓘ
- 1/2 cup grated Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, place onions in water to cover and cook for 10 minutes.
- Remove onions from water.
- Secure an onion with one fork and pull out a 1/2 inch onion center with another fork.
- Fill the hollowed-out onions with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Place the stuffed onions in a greased baking dish.
- Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes until tender and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese mixture. If Cheddar isn't available, Gruyère or mozzarella can be excellent substitutes. Be careful not to overcook the onions initially; they should be firm enough to hold the cheese filling. This recipe can also be made with smaller onions for appetizers or as a side dish in vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheesy red onions as a delightful side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or can be included in a vegetarian feast. For a complete meal, consider serving them with crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed onions in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help retain the cheese's gooey texture while warming the onions evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Red Onions contains roughly 403 calories, with 23g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (55% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 653mg per serving (28% 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 prepare these onions ahead of time?
Yes, you can hollow out the onions and fill them with cheese a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld together. Just remember to adjust the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can use Gruyère for a nutty taste or mozzarella for a milder, gooey texture. Both options melt beautifully and complement the onions well. Feel free to mix cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
Can I use frozen onions for this recipe?
It's best to use fresh onions for this recipe, as frozen onions may become too mushy during cooking. If you're in a pinch, thaw the frozen onions completely and drain any excess moisture before hollowing them out. However, the texture might not be as ideal as with fresh 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).