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Viral TikTok Caramelized Onion Roast Recipe

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3.9 from 8 reviews

This viral TikTok roasted onion recipe features a whole sweet onion seasoned with vegan butter, olive oil, and Cajun spices, then slow-roasted until fork tender and caramelized. Finished under the broiler for a golden-crisp top, this flavorful side is perfect served with rice, crispy chickpeas, or roasted vegetables. The method enhances the natural sweetness of the onion while adding a savory, spicy kick.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large (15 ounce) sweet onion, peeled and ends trimmed off
  • 1 tablespoon vegan butter
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste when serving each layer)

Optional Seasonings

  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

Optional Garnish

  • Finely diced parsley leaves

Instructions

  1. Season the onion: Use a small melon baller to scoop out the top center portion of the onion about one-third of the way down, creating a well. Place the onion on aluminum foil and add vegan butter into the well. Mix the Cajun seasoning with olive oil and pour it over the butter, allowing the mixture to drip down the sides. Season with salt and optional seasonings like garlic powder or Old Bay if desired.
  2. Wrap the onion in foil: Seal the onion tightly in the aluminum foil, ensuring it is completely enclosed. Place the wrapped onion in a small baking dish or cast iron skillet to catch any excess oil that seeps out.
  3. Roast the onion: Place the baking dish on the center rack of the oven and roast for 1 hour. After roasting, carefully open the foil to check the onion. It should be fork tender, slightly caramelized, and the center should jiggle. If needed, reseal the foil and roast for an additional 10 minutes, then recheck.
  4. Broil for caramelization (optional): Turn the oven to broil. Open the foil and drizzle additional melted vegan butter or olive oil along with an extra pinch of salt on the onion. Broil for 5-10 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. This step creates a golden brown caramelized exterior on top.
  5. Serve: Peel away the outer layer of the onion and enjoy the tender layers beneath. Sprinkle with extra salt as desired and pour all the flavorful juices from the foil over the onion when serving. This dish pairs well with rice, crispy chickpeas, and roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use a melon baller or small spoon to carefully hollow the onion without piercing through.
  • Tight foil sealing helps retain moisture and flavor during roasting.
  • Adjust seasonings to taste or experiment with other spices.
  • Broiling is optional but enhances caramelization and texture on top.
  • Serving with grains or roasted veggies makes a complete meal.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan