Description

A tender, caramelized sweet onion roasted whole with butter, olive oil, and seasoning until each layer melts in your mouth—an effortless, flavor-packed side or snack that’s gone viral on TikTok.

Ingredients

1 large (15 oz) sweet onion, peeled and ends trimmed off

1 tablespoon vegan butter

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

¼ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste when serving each layer)

Optional: ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Optional: ¼ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

Optional garnish: finely diced parsley leaves

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C).
Use a small melon baller or teaspoon to scoop out the top center of the onion about one-third of the way down, creating a shallow well.
Place the onion on a sheet of aluminum foil. Add the tablespoon of vegan butter into the well.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and salt (plus garlic powder and Old Bay if using). Pour this mixture over the butter in the well, allowing it to seep down the sides.
Season with any optional spices desired.
Wrap the onion tightly in the foil and set it in a small baking dish or cast iron skillet to catch any drips.
Roast in the center of the oven for 1 hour. After 60 minutes, open the foil to check: the onion should be fork-tender and slightly caramelized, with a jiggly center.
If it needs more time, re-seal and roast for an additional 10 minutes, then check again.
(Optional) To achieve a golden-brown top, turn the oven to broil, unwrap the foil, drizzle extra melted butter or olive oil, add a little more salt, and broil for 5–10 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
To serve, peel away the outer layer and enjoy each inner layer with a sprinkle of salt if desired. Pour any collected juices from the foil over the onion. Garnish with chopped parsley if using.

Notes

Use Vidalia or Walla Walla sweet onions for best flavor.
Can be made ahead by wrapping and refrigerating overnight.
Optional broiling step adds caramelized texture.
Seasoning can be adjusted to taste or dietary preferences.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 onion
Calories: 140
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg