Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cut off the tops and bottoms of the onions to create stable bases. Peel away the outer skin.
- Carefully cut a small circle at the top of each onion to create a hole.
- Using a spoon or melon baller, scoop out the inner layers to make room for the stuffing.
- In a bowl, combine the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stuff the bacon and cheese mixture into each onion, pressing gently to pack it in.
- Place the stuffed onions on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle Melts secret sauce generously over each filled onion.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the onions with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the onions are soft and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve the onion bombs hot for the best cheesy, pull-apart goodness.
Best ways to enjoy it
These onion bombs are just begging to be paired with your favorite side dishes! Consider serving them alongside a crisp salad or some grilled meats for a hearty meal. They also make fantastic party appetizers — chop them up for easy sharing and serve them with toothpicks for a fun twist. For a complete meal, pair them with roasted vegetables or garlic bread.
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is surprisingly unlikely), you can store these tantalizing treats easily. Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. They can also be frozen, but for best texture, enjoy fresh!
Helpful cooking tips
- Choose the right onions: Sweet onions, like Vidalia or Walla Walla, work best for this recipe due to their mild flavor.
- Bacon crispness: Make sure your bacon is crispy before adding it to the stuffing; this enhances the texture of the final dish.
- Make-ahead option: Prep these stuffed onions the day before your event! Just store them in the fridge before baking — no one will know you made them ahead of time.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize this recipe! Swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack for some heat, or use different sauces like BBQ or ranch dressing for diversity in flavor. You could also try mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers into the stuffing for extra texture and flavor.
FAQ
How long does it take to prep these onion bombs?
Preparation takes about 20-30 minutes, and baking time is around 60 minutes total. A little time spent here leads to a rewarding culinary experience!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, gouda, or even a mixture of cheeses can work beautifully. Just keep in mind the melting characteristics of your chosen cheese.
What if I have leftovers?
Store any leftover onion bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven to restore their cheesy goodness!
Now, get ready to enjoy a delicious dish that’s truly a crowd-pleaser!
