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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 375F (190C) and readying a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or a light butter coating.
- 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.
- 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.
- Merge wet and dry mixtures, stirring gently until just incorporated, avoiding excessive mixing which can toughen the texture.
- Transfer the dough into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even distribution across the surface.
- Generously layer the caramelized onions atop the dough, sprinkling cheese across the top if desired.
- 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.
- 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