Norwegian Stuffed Onion
Hearty Norwegian stuffed onions bursting with savory beef, buttery onions, and aromatic stock—perfect for cozy family dinners or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the onions and slice off a 1/2‑inch top from each, reserving the tops for later.
- Hollow the center of each onion to create a cavity for stuffing.
- Cut the removed onion centers into fine pieces and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a pan, add the ground beef or veal, and brown it; season with salt and pepper.
- Mix the browned meat with the chopped onion pieces until well combined.
- Fill each onion cavity with the meat mixture.
- Place the reserved onion tops back on each stuffed onion and secure with toothpicks.
- Arrange the onions in a baking dish and pour the beef stock over them.
- Bake at 345°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until the onions are soft and tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the meat mixture. If you want a lighter version, try using ground turkey instead of beef or veal. You can also experiment with different types of onions, such as sweet onions, for a milder taste. Ensure the onions are hollowed out evenly to allow for consistent cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed onions make an excellent main dish and can be paired with roasted vegetables or a green salad for a complete meal. They also go wonderfully with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the flavorful beef stock. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside French Meat Pie(Tourtiere) or Hungarian Goulash.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, covered, for a few minutes, but the oven method will help retain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norwegian Stuffed Onion contains roughly 276 calories, with 16g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2004mg per serving (87% 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 meats besides beef or veal?
Yes, you can substitute ground pork or lamb for a different flavor profile. Each option brings its own unique taste to the dish, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
What can I do if the onions are too firm after baking?
If the onions remain firm after the initial baking time, you can cover the baking dish with foil and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will help steam the onions and make them softer.
Can I prepare these onions ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed onions a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just cover them well and bake them when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are cold.
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).