Easy Creamed Onions
Creamed Onions: A Comforting Classic
If you’re hunting for a side dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, look no further than creamed onions. This delightful recipe combines the delicate sweetness of pearl onions with a rich, creamy sauce—perfect for holiday feasts or cozy weeknight dinners. Having made this dish on various occasions, I can assure you of its mouthwatering appeal that will make your taste buds dance!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Easy Creamed Onions recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s both quick and stress-free, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or fun family brunches. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a creamy, luscious side that complements meats and roasts beautifully. Plus, pearl onions are not only delicious; they present a charming touch to any table setting.
"I never knew creamed onions could be this easy! This recipe is a must-try. I served it at our family get-together, and it was the standout dish!" – Satisfied Home Cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Making Easy Creamed Onions is as straightforward as it is satisfying. This step-by-step guide will take you from gathering your ingredients to serving up your delicious dish.
What You’ll Need
To bring this comforting recipe to life, assemble the following ingredients:
- 0.75 cup water
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups peeled pearl onions
- 0.25 cup butter
- 1.5 cups cold whole milk
- 0.25 cup quick-mixing flour (like Wondra®), or more as needed
Feel free to substitute other types of onions if you can’t find pearl onions, though the flavor and texture may change slightly!
Directions to Follow

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Gather your ingredients. Make sure everything is at hand before you start cooking for a smooth experience.
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Boil the water: In a small saucepan, bring 0.75 cup of water and salt to a boil.
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Cook the onions: Once boiling, add the pearl onions. Cook until they’re just tender—this should take about 5 to 10 minutes. Afterward, drain them while reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water in the pan.
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Add butter: Return the cooked onions to the saucepan and toss in the butter, allowing it to melt and coat the onions.
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Whisk together milk and flour: In a separate small bowl, thoroughly whisk together 1.5 cups of cold whole milk with 0.25 cup of quick-mixing flour until smooth.
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Combine everything: Pour this mixture into the saucepan with the onions. On medium-low heat, cook and stir until the sauce thickens—this should take about 10 to 15 minutes. If your sauce seems too thin, add more quick-mixing flour, one teaspoon at a time.
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Season to taste: Adjust the flavor with more salt if needed.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Easy Creamed Onions are fabulous on their own, but there are many enjoyable ways to present them. Consider serving them alongside roasted meats like chicken or beef, or pair them with a hearty grain dish such as rice or polenta. For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top for added color and flavor.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you find yourself with extra creamed onions, storing them properly will help maintain their deliciousness. In an airtight container, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to bring back their creamy texture.
Helpful Cooking Tips
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Choose quality ingredients: Always opt for fresh pearl onions, as they significantly impact the dish’s overall flavor.
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Mind the heat: Be cautious not to cook the sauce too quickly, or it can scorch. Patience is key!
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Thicker sauce: If you prefer a thicker consistency, don’t hesitate to add a bit more quick-mixing flour, adjusting until you reach your desired texture.
Creative Twists
This recipe is quite versatile. For a unique spin, try adding a dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an umami boost. If you’re looking for a healthier version, consider swapping out the butter for olive oil and using plant-based milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to make Easy Creamed Onions?
The process takes roughly 30 minutes, making it a quick addition to any meal.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamed onions a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving.
What can I substitute for pearl onions?
If pearl onions aren’t available, you can use shallots or even chopped regular onions, though the cooking time may vary.
With these insightful tips and a straightforward guide, you’re now ready to make Easy Creamed Onions. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a regular in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Easy Creamed Onions
Ingredients
Method
- Gather your ingredients for a smooth cooking experience.
- In a small saucepan, bring 0.75 cup of water and salt to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the pearl onions and cook until just tender, about 5 to 10 minutes. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
- Return the cooked onions to the saucepan and toss in the butter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups of cold whole milk and 0.25 cup of quick-mixing flour until smooth.
- Pour the milk and flour mixture into the saucepan with the onions. Cook on medium-low heat, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 10 to 15 minutes. Add more flour if the sauce is too thin.
- Adjust the flavor with salt as needed.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
