Grandma’s Onion Squares Recipe: A Cozy Family Favorite

Memories of grandma’s kitchen always come alive with her legendary onion squares bursting with comforting flavors.

Soft, golden pastry embraces caramelized onions in a nostalgic culinary hug.

Generations have savored this simple yet extraordinary dish passed down through whispered recipes.

Delicate layers melt into a symphony of sweet and savory notes that dance across your palate.

Rustic and unpretentious, these squares speak of home-cooked warmth and familial love.

Crisp edges promise a delightful crunch that complements the tender, melting center.

Let’s uncover the magic behind this treasured family recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into something truly spectacular.

Grandma’s Onion Squares Comfort Food Classic

• Savor Family Heritage: Dive into a nostalgic recipe passed down through generations, bringing the warmth of grandma's kitchen right to your home.
• Master Quick Comfort Cooking: Prepare a delightful side dish with simple ingredients and minimal kitchen skills, perfect for home cooks of all levels.
• Customize with Creativity: Experiment with different herbs, cheese varieties, or additional toppings to make this recipe uniquely yours, turning a classic into a personal favorite.
• Serve Versatile Deliciousness: Enjoy as a fantastic accompaniment to soups, salads, or standalone snack that works brilliantly for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients for Grandma’s Onion Squares

• Sweet Onions: Soft and golden caramelized onions that provide a rich, sweet flavor to the dish.

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundational ingredient that creates the tender and light base for the onion squares.
• Baking Powder: Helps the dough rise and creates a light, airy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.

• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a flaky texture in both the onion mixture and the dough.
• Milk: Provides moisture and helps bind the dough ingredients together.
• Egg: Acts as a binding agent and contributes to the structure of the squares.

• Garlic Powder, Herbs: Adds extra depth and aromatic complexity to the onion mixture.
• Cheese: Provides a savory, melty topping that complements the caramelized onions.

Step-by-Step Grandma’s Onion Squares

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven and Prep the Pan

Crank the oven to a toasty 375F (190C). Grab your baking dish and give it a generous butter massage or lay down a cozy parchment paper blanket.

• Baking dish
• Parchment paper or butter

Step 2: Transform Onions into Golden Delights

Melt butter in a skillet and invite chopped onions to a sizzling dance. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and optional flavor boosters like garlic powder or herbs.

Let them shimmer and soften for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn a gorgeous golden hue. Gently remove from heat and set aside.

• Butter
• Onions
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Herbs (optional)

Step 3: Craft the Perfect Dough

In one bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt into a harmonious blend. In another bowl, unite melted butter, milk, and egg.

Slowly marry the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring until just combined – no aggressive mixing allowed!

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Melted butter
• Milk
• Egg

Step 4: Layer and Bake to Perfection

Spread the dough evenly across the prepared pan like a smooth blanket.

Crown it with the caramelized onions and optional cheese sprinkle. Slide into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until it turns a beautiful golden brown and feels set in the center.

• Prepared dough
• Cooked onions
• Cheese (optional)

Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Devour

Allow the onion squares to rest and cool for 5 minutes. Slice into squares and serve while still warm, ready to be enjoyed by hungry taste buds.

Tips for Perfect Onion Squares

• Take time to cook onions over medium-low heat, allowing natural sugars to develop rich, sweet flavor without burning.
• Gently combine wet and dry ingredients just until mixed to keep the squares tender and prevent tough texture.
• Use high-quality sharp cheese and fresh onions for maximum flavor and texture in the final dish.
• Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives to the onion mixture for an extra layer of aromatic complexity.
• Enjoy these squares warm for the best taste and texture, as they tend to lose their crispness when cooled completely.

Variations to Try with Onion Squares

• Herbed Onion Squares: Add fresh chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage to the onion mixture for an aromatic herb-infused version.
• Spicy Jalapeño Onion Squares: Mix diced jalapeños into the onion mixture and sprinkle extra on top for a fiery kick.
• Cheese Lover's Onion Squares: Incorporate shredded cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella into both the dough and topping for maximum cheese flavor.
• Mediterranean Onion Squares: Blend in crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and dried oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.

Pairing Suggestions for Onion Squares

• Crisp Wine Complement: Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Riesling that cuts through the rich, buttery onion flavors and refreshes the palate with its bright acidity.
• Hearty Protein Partner: Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or herb-crusted pork tenderloin to create a balanced meal that highlights the onion squares' savory depth.
• Salad Sidekick: Combine with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to add a fresh, peppery contrast that balances the rich, caramelized onion texture.

Storage Advice for Onion Squares

Store leftover onion squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality and taste.

Preheat oven to 350F. Place squares on a baking sheet and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through, maintaining crispy edges.

Heat individual squares for 30-45 seconds on medium power. Add a small splash of water to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of onions?

Yes, you can use yellow, white, or red onions. Each type will give a slightly different flavor, but they all work well in this recipe.

• Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

• How do I know when the onion squares are fully baked?

Look for a golden-brown top and edges that are slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan. The center should feel set when lightly touched.

• Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

You can mix the dry and wet ingredients separately and store them in the refrigerator. Combine and bake just before serving for the freshest results.

Grandmas Onion Squares Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 9 1x

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Description

Grandma’s onion squares bring nostalgic comfort from her rustic Italian kitchen. Caramelized onions nestled in a buttery, herb-infused crust will transport you to a warm, loving family gathering with each savory bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (470 ml) all-purpose flour
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsalted butter

Leavening and Seasoning:

• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss, optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 375F (190C) and readying a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or a light butter coating.
2. Caramelize onions in a skillet over medium heat, incorporating salt, pepper, and optional herbs until they transform into a soft, golden-brown delicacy, approximately 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and reserve.
3. Create the dough foundation by blending dry ingredients in one mixing vessel: flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate container, whisk together melted butter, milk, and egg until smooth.
4. Merge wet and dry mixtures, stirring gently until just incorporated, avoiding excessive mixing which can toughen the texture.
5. Transfer the dough into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even distribution across the surface.
6. Generously layer the caramelized onions atop the dough, sprinkling cheese across the top if desired.
7. Slide the dish into the preheated oven, baking for 25-30 minutes until the surface achieves a rich golden-brown color and the center feels firmly set.
8. Allow the onion squares to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, then slice into individual servings and present while still warm.

Notes

• Caramelize onions slowly to develop deep, rich flavor without burning, which ensures a sweet and mellow taste profile.
• Use room temperature ingredients for smoother dough mixing and more consistent texture throughout the onion squares.
• Consider swapping wheat flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond or rice flour for those with dietary restrictions, maintaining similar texture and taste.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, gruyère, or nutritional yeast for unique flavor variations and added complexity.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 9
• Calories: 174
• Sugar: 0.6 g
• Sodium: 263 mg
• Fat: 9.7 g
• Saturated Fat: 5.8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Fiber: 1.1 g
• Protein: 4.2 g
• Cholesterol: 42 mg