Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim off the tops and bottoms of the onions, then carefully peel off the outer skin. Drill a small hole in the top of each onion and remove the inner layers, ensuring you leave a sturdy shell.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Tightly pack each onion with the cheesy mixture, pressing it down well.
- In a separate bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the stuffed onions.
- Arrange the stuffed onions on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes. They are ready when the onions are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Enjoy hot as a delightful appetizer or savory side dish!
Best ways to enjoy it
Present your onion bombs on a fancy platter to add some elegance. They pair wonderfully with a light salad or creamy dip like ranch or garlic aioli. For a more rustic feel, serve them alongside some grilled meats or roasted vegetables. And don’t forget to invite your friends over to share in the deliciousness!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last up to 3 days. For reheating, pop them back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing. Just make sure they are cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-friendly container.
Helpful cooking tips
- Choose onions that are large and firm for easier stuffing.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference; you can always add more, but it’s tough to take it out!
- If you have a habit of overstuffing, it’s okay! Just make sure they don’t burst during baking.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment! Instead of bacon, you might try chorizo for a smoky flavor, or add some spinach for a vegetarian option. You could also swap the cheddar for feta or pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick. Think outside the box to create your own signature stuffed onion bombs.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
You’ll need about 15-20 minutes of prep time, plus 25-30 minutes of baking, for a total of around 50 minutes from start to finish.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, and mozzarella offers a gooey texture.
What if I want to make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the stuffed onions a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are as cold as the fridge.
Try out this recipe for Crispy Spicy Garlic Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Onion Bombs, and watch as they disappear from the plate! Happy cooking!
