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A delicious plate of Tender Buttered Onions Everyone Is Making on TikTok

Tender Buttered Onions Everyone Is Making on TikTok

Discover the viral TikTok sensation: tender, caramelized sweet onions baked with butter, olive oil, garlic, and seasonings until incredibly soft and swimming in buttery juices. A simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish or a comforting main course.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 2 onions
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 440
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 count large sweet onions Vidalia or yellow onions are recommended for their mild, sweet flavor, approximately 500-600g total.
  • 30 g butter Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning, for stuffing into the onion wells.
  • 15 ml olive oil Adds richness and helps the onions caramelize beautifully during baking.
  • 6 g garlic, minced Approximately 2-3 cloves, fresh garlic provides the best pungent aroma and flavor.
  • 1 g paprika For a subtle sweet and peppery flavor, and a lovely reddish hue.
  • 1 g garlic powder Enhances the overall garlic flavor in a convenient, concentrated form.
  • 1 g onion powder Deepens the natural onion flavor, adding an extra layer of savory taste.
  • 3 g salt Essential for seasoning and bringing out the inherent sweetness of the onions.
  • 1 g black pepper Adds a touch of warmth and gentle spice, balancing the richness.
Optional Flavor Boosters
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning For a spicy, savory kick and a Southern-inspired twist.
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning A classic blend, great for adding a unique savory depth, especially if serving with seafood.
  • 1 tsp Chicken or vegetable bouillon powder Adds an umami depth and savory richness to the buttery juices.
  • 1 sprig Fresh thyme or rosemary For an aromatic, herbaceous note that complements the sweet onions.
  • 0.25 tsp Chili flakes If you like a little extra heat and visual appeal.

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Aluminum Foil
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Prepare a small baking dish or a sheet of aluminum foil large enough to wrap the onions.
  2. Peel the onions and carefully slice a thin amount off the top and bottom of each so they can stand upright. Using a sharp knife, gently hollow out the center of each onion, creating a small well without cutting all the way through the bottom.
  3. Place the prepared onions in the baking dish or on the foil. Stuff each onion's well with butter, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. If using, add any of the optional flavor boosters to the wells as well.
  4. Wrap the onions tightly in foil, ensuring a good seal to trap all the steam and juices during baking. This is crucial for achieving ultra-tender results.
  5. Bake for 45–60 minutes, or until the onions are ultra-soft, beautifully caramelized, and simmering in their delicious buttery juices. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your onions and oven calibration.
  6. Carefully unwrap the onions (watch out for escaping steam!) and spoon the rich, buttery onion broth that has collected over them before serving. Enjoy them hot!

Notes

These tender buttered onions are incredibly versatile! Enjoy them whole with a spoon, mash them like buttery onion potatoes, or serve them over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all the flavorful juices. For a heartier meal, you can add steak, shrimp, or sausage to the pan during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.