Mom’s Traditional Creamed Onions is the kind of dish that brings back warm memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. Tender pearl onions are simmered in a velvety cream sauce, rich with butter and just the right hint of nutmeg. This timeless recipe is a staple on Thanksgiving and Christmas tables, offering a touch of elegance and nostalgia in every bite.
Mom’s Traditional Creamed Onions:
The creamy texture and mild sweetness of the onions make this side dish a comforting complement to roasted meats, turkey, or ham. It’s simple, homestyle cooking at its best — the kind of recipe that’s been lovingly passed down through generations.
History of Creamed Onions:
Creamed onions have deep roots in early American cooking, tracing back to colonial times when onions were a reliable winter vegetable. Traditionally served at holiday feasts, the dish became especially popular in the early 1900s, symbolizing comfort and abundance. Over time, every family adapted its own version, but the essence remained — sweet onions enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, a hallmark of festive dinners and comforting meals.
Subscribe to our youtube channel Kitchenpedia for more delicious recipes and hit the like button if you enjoyed this youtubevideo. Share it with your friends and Family.
Mom’s Traditional Creamed Onions
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pearl onions (fresh or frozen)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk or half-and-half (warm)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prepare Onions:
- If using fresh onions, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add onions and cook for 2 minutes. Drain and cool slightly, then peel off skins.
Make the Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until smooth but not browned.
Add Milk:
- Gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Combine:
- Add the cooked onions to the sauce. Simmer gently for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until onions are heated through and well coated.
Finish:
- Stir in heavy cream if desired for extra richness. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Frozen pearl onions save time and taste just as good as fresh.
- Avoid boiling onions too long or they’ll become mushy.
- Use whole milk or half-and-half for the creamiest sauce.
- Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that enhances flavour.
- Can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
Tips for Traditional Creamed:
- To peel fresh onions easily, blanch them briefly, then pop the skins off.
- For added flavor, sauté onions lightly in butter before adding the sauce.
- Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Gruyère for a cheesy variation.
- Make it gluten-free by substituting flour with cornstarch or rice flour.
- Serve in a warmed casserole dish to keep it hot at the table.
FAQs for Onions:
Q: Can I make creamed onions ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them a day in advance and reheat gently over low heat or in the oven.
Q: Can I use regular onions instead of pearl onions?
Yes, slice medium onions and cook until tender before adding to the sauce.
Q: How can I make this lighter?
Use low-fat milk and reduce the butter for a lighter version.
Q: What can I serve with creamed onions?
They pair beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, beef, or ham.
Q: Can I freeze creamed onions?
Yes, but thaw and reheat slowly to prevent the sauce from separating.
Conclusion:
Mom’s Traditional Creamed Onions brings the warmth of home-cooked comfort to any meal. With its silky cream sauce and melt-in-your-mouth onions, this timeless recipe honors family traditions and simple, wholesome flavors. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or an everyday dinner, this dish captures the essence of love served on a plate.