Grandma’s Onion Squares Recipe

Introduction

Grandma’s Onion Squares are a comforting, savory treat with rich caramelized onions baked into a soft, flavorful batter. This classic recipe is perfect as an appetizer or a side dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup grated cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden brown, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
2. Step 2: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, beat the egg and add the milk, mixing well.
3. Step 3: Stir the cooled caramelized onions into the wet mixture. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth. If using, fold in the grated cheddar cheese.
4. Step 4: Pour the batter into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Step 5: Allow the onion squares to cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra depth of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
• Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and added nutrition.
• Omit the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free version, or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Serve these squares with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra zing.

Storage

Store leftover onion squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to retain crisp edges, or microwave briefly until warm.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the onions in advance?

Yes, you can caramelize the onions a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. Bring them to room temperature before mixing into the batter for best results.

Can I freeze Grandma’s Onion Squares?

Yes, they freeze well. Wrap cooled squares tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Grandma’s Onion Squares Recipe

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4.7 from 399 reviews

Grandma’s Onion Squares are a delightful savory treat featuring caramelized onions baked into a tender, flavorful batter. These golden squares are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, combining a rich buttery onion flavor with a soft, cakey texture. Optionally enhanced with cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, this recipe is both comforting and easy to prepare.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 9 servings (about 9 squares) 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Onions

• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons butter

Batter

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup grated cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Garnish

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they are soft and golden brown, which takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally during this process to prevent burning. Once caramelized, remove the onions from heat and set them aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar to combine the dry ingredients well. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then stir in the milk until fully mixed. Add the cooled caramelized onions (and grated cheddar cheese if using) into the wet mixture and stir gently to combine. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing carefully until the batter is smooth and uniform.
3. Bake the Squares: Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish and pour the prepared batter evenly into it, spreading the mixture to fill the pan. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You will know the onion squares are done when the edges turn a golden brown color and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the onion squares to cool for a few minutes. Cut them carefully into individual squares. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving these warm, flavorful onion squares.

Notes

• Caramelize the onions slowly to develop their natural sweetness and avoid bitterness.
• Adding grated cheddar cheese boosts flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
• Make sure the onion mixture is cooled before mixing with the batter to prevent cooking the egg prematurely.
• Use a toothpick test to ensure the squares are fully baked inside.
• Serve warm for best flavor and texture.

Keywords: Onion squares, caramelized onions, savory baked squares, appetizer, easy onion recipe