cheesy baked onion stacks

Introduction

Cheesy Baked Onion Stacks are a mouthwatering combination of sweet, caramelized onions layered with gooey melted cheese. Perfect as a side dish for a steak dinner, a holiday feast, or a casual weeknight meal, these cheesy stacks are a unique way to elevate humble onions into a show-stopping dish.

With a crispy, cheesy topping and tender, roasted onions, this recipe is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a fan of comfort food or looking for a creative way to use onions, this dish has you covered.

Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Onion Stacks

Main Ingredients:

• 3-4 large sweet onions (Vidalia, yellow, or Walla Walla onions work best)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Cheesy Baked Onion Stacks

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel the onions and slice them horizontally into ½-inch thick rings. Carefully separate the rings into individual layers.

Step 2: Season the Onions

1. Place the onion rings on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish.
2. Drizzle the melted butter and olive oil over the onion slices, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper over the onions for a burst of flavor.

Step 3: Stack the Onions

1. Create stacks by layering onion rings from largest to smallest. Aim for 3-4 layers per stack, pressing down gently to secure them.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

1. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the onion stacks.
2. Top each stack with a layer of Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake the Onion Stacks

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let the stacks cool for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Baked Onion Stacks pair well with a variety of dishes:

• Main Course: Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon.
• Side Dish: Pair with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad.
• Appetizer: Serve as a standalone appetizer with a dollop of sour cream or ranch dressing.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Baked Onion Stacks

1. Choose Sweet Onions: Sweet onions caramelize beautifully, enhancing the flavor of the dish.
2. Cut Even Slices: Uniform slices ensure even cooking and prevent the stacks from toppling over.
3. Experiment with Cheeses: Swap mozzarella and Parmesan with Gruyère, cheddar, or Gouda for a different flavor.
4. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
5. Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking dish to prevent the onions and cheese from sticking.

Variations of Cheesy Baked Onion Stacks

1. Bacon-Wrapped Onion Stacks

• Wrap each stack with a slice of bacon before baking for a smoky, savory flavor.

2. Herb-Infused Stacks

• Add fresh rosemary or oregano between the onion layers for an aromatic touch.

3. Vegetarian Twist

• Add thin slices of tomato or zucchini between the onion layers for extra veggies.

4. Cheesy Garlic Stacks

• Brush the onion layers with garlic butter for a bold, garlicky flavor.

5. Gluten-Free Option

• Use a gluten-free cheese blend and pair with your favorite GF main dish.

Health Benefits of Onions

Onions are not just flavorful—they’re packed with health benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Onions contain quercetin, a powerful antioxidant.
• Boosts Immunity: Their anti-inflammatory properties support a healthy immune system.
• Heart Health: Onions may help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
• Low in Calories: A great option for those watching their caloric intake.

FAQs About Cheesy Baked Onion Stacks

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the onion stacks ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, follow the instructions for fresh results.

2. What type of onions work best?

Sweet onions like Vidalia, yellow, or Walla Walla are ideal because of their mild flavor and natural sweetness.

3. Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the cheeses with plant-based cheese alternatives and use vegan butter or olive oil.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for the best texture.

5. Can I freeze cheesy baked onion stacks?

Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze before baking and thaw completely before cooking.

6. Can I add other vegetables to the stacks?

Certainly! Thinly sliced zucchini, tomatoes, or bell peppers make great additions to the layers.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Onion Stacks are an easy, crowd-pleasing side dish that’s both versatile and delicious. With layers of tender, caramelized onions topped with melted cheese, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or a cozy night in, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.