This Baked Brie with Caramelized Onions is a lovely treat! The soft, creamy cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet, tender onions, creating a warm, gooey delight.
Honestly, it’s hard to resist! I like to serve this with crusty bread for dipping. Your friends and family will be impressed, and you’ll feel like a culinary superstar! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: This is the star of the show! I recommend using a high-quality brie for best results. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Camembert cheese, which has a similar texture and flavor.
Yellow Onions: They’re perfect for caramelizing because of their sweetness. However, if you prefer a milder taste, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even shallots for a more delicate flavor.
Butter and Olive Oil: This combination helps in caramelizing the onions nicely. If you want a dairy-free version, use a vegan butter alternative. It works well, too!
Baguette: A classic choice for serving! If gluten is a concern, try gluten-free baguettes or serve with crackers instead for a crunchy alternative.
How Do I Get My Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions takes a bit of patience, but it’s worth it! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium-low heat to avoid burning them. Low and slow is the way to go!
- Stir the onions every few minutes, letting them cook evenly. It usually takes about 30-40 minutes.
- If you like, add sugar after about 10-15 minutes; it boosts their natural sweetness.
- Watch for a golden-brown color and a sweet aroma. Once achieved, remove from heat!
With these tips, your onions will be beautifully caramelized, adding a wonderful flavor to your baked brie!
Baked Brie With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to help caramelize)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
For the Bread:
- 1 baguette, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for bread garnish)
- Olive oil (for brushing bread)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus around 30-40 minutes for caramelizing the onions. You’ll spend a total of about 10-12 minutes baking the brie. In total, set aside about an hour to prepare this delightful appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure a perfectly baked brie that melts beautifully.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the sliced onions to the pan, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the onions occasionally and let them cook slowly. This should take about 30-40 minutes, and you can sprinkle sugar after 10 minutes if you want extra sweetness. Once they’re deeply browned and fragrant, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Bread:
Take your baguette and slice it into rounds. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley if you’re using it. Place the slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden and crisp.
4. Prepare the Brie:
Next, place the brie wheel on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an oven-proof dish. If you like, use a sharp knife to score the top rind in a criss-cross pattern, but be careful not to cut all the way through.
5. Bake the Brie:
Put the brie in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. You want it to be soft and starting to ooze but not completely melted. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook!
6. Top with Caramelized Onions:
Once the brie is baked, carefully remove it from the oven. Spoon the warm caramelized onions evenly over the top of the cheese. The contrast of flavors will be amazing!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the onions for a touch of herbal freshness. Serve the baked brie immediately with the toasted baguette slices for delightful dipping!
Enjoy every bit of this warm, creamy brie paired perfectly with rich, sweet onions and crunchy bread! It’s sure to impress everyone!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While brie is traditional, you can substitute with Camembert or even a creamy goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting time may vary slightly depending on the cheese.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian-Friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but if you want to ensure everything is suitable for specific diets, just check the butter and olive oil you are using, as some brands may add non-vegetarian ingredients.
Can I Prepare the Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can caramelize the onions a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use them, reheat gently on the stove before adding them to the brie.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the brie and any remaining caramelized onions in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days. To reheat, place it back in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, as microwaving can change the texture.
