I’m so excited to share with you one of my favorite recipes, creamed pearl onions. This dish has been a staple in my household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too.
The creamy sauce and the sweetness of the onions are a perfect combination that will leave you wanting more. I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for a side dish to serve at a family gathering.
My mother-in-law had brought it to the event, and it was love at first bite for me. Since then, I’ve made it countless times for our family and friends, and everyone raves about it.
The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. The result is a deliciously rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just need a comforting meal after a long day, creamed pearl onions are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household. The health benefits of this recipe are also impressive – with pearl onions being low in calories and high in fiber and antioxidants, you can feel good about what you’re serving your loved ones.
So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and experience the joy of cooking up something truly special.
Creamed Pearl Onions
4.6 from 875 votes
Tender pearl onions are simmered in a rich, creamy sauce for a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with roasts and holiday meals. This recipe transforms humble onions into a luxurious, comforting accompaniment.
1Place the peeled pearl onions, 2 tablespoons butter, 1/2 cup water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan.
2Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the onions are tender when pierced with a fork.
3Drain the onions in a colander and set aside.
4In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
5Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
6Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
7Add the nutmeg, white pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
8Cook over medium heat, whisking often, for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
9Return the drained onions to the saucepan with the cream sauce.
10Stir gently to coat the onions evenly.
11Cook over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions are heated through and the sauce is smooth and bubbling gently.
12Transfer the creamed onions to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
To easily peel pearl onions, blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute, then plunge into ice water. The skins will slip off. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Watch Video Of How Creamed Pearl Onions Works
I always feel good about serving creamed pearl onions because they are elegant enough for a holiday table but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce and sweet onions please almost everyone, and I have seen picky eaters go back for seconds.
For storage, keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm them slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened.
You can also reheat them in the microwave in short bursts. This dish also works well as a topping for baked potatoes or stirred into pasta for a quick meal.
Whether it is for a family gathering or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is a reliable way to add something special to the table.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamed Pearl Onions
1. Do I have to peel the pearl onions myself?
Yes, you need to peel them. The easiest way is to blanch them in boiling water for about 1 to 2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath. The skins will slip right off. It takes a little time but is not difficult.
2. Can I use frozen pearl onions instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen pearl onions work well and save time on peeling. Just thaw them and pat dry before cooking. They may be slightly softer than fresh, but the dish will still taste great.
3. How do I make the sauce thicker?
The sauce thickens as it simmers and the cream reduces. If you want it thicker, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for another minute or two.
4. Can I make this recipe dairy free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant based butter and use full fat coconut cream or a dairy free heavy cream alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still creamy and good.
5. How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
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