There are some recipes that just feel like home, and Grandma’s Onion Squares is one of them. Picture this: golden, crispy squares infused with caramelized onions, a hint of butter, and just the right touch of seasoning. Every bite is a perfect balance of crunchy edges and soft, flavorful goodness in the center.
Whether you’re making these for a cozy family dinner, a potluck with friends, or just to treat yourself on a lazy Sunday, trust me—this one’s a game-changer. Simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, Grandma’s Onion Squares will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds).
Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Onion Squares
Versatile: Whether served as a side dish, an appetizer, or even a snack, these onion squares fit into any meal plan effortlessly.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, this recipe proves that delicious doesn’t have to mean expensive.
Quick and Easy: No complicated steps or fancy techniques here—just a straightforward, foolproof method that delivers amazing results every time.
Customizable: Add some cheese, a sprinkle of herbs, or even a bit of spice to tailor these squares to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Grandma’s Onion Squares
Here’s the magic of these onion squares—they’re made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Onions: The heart of the dish, bringing a rich, caramelized sweetness that makes every bite irresistible.
Butter: Adds a silky, indulgent flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the onions.
Eggs: The binding magic that holds everything together and creates a light, fluffy texture.
Flour: Provides structure and helps create that perfect golden crust.
Baking Powder: Gives the squares a little lift, making them soft on the inside while keeping a slight crisp on the edges.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors without overpowering them.
Instructions
Preheat Your Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures even baking and gives your onion squares that perfect golden finish.
Prepare the Onions
In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the onions until they’re soft and lightly caramelized. This step brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until just combined—you don’t want to overmix, as this could affect the texture.
Add the Onions
Gently fold the caramelized onions into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed for that perfect balance of flavor in every bite.
Prepare Your Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. This step also makes cleanup a breeze!
Assemble the Dish
Pour the onion batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. If you’re adding any extra toppings like cheese or herbs, now’s the time!
Bake to Perfection
Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let It Rest
Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for at least 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice into squares, serve warm, and get ready for compliments!
Nutrition facts
Servings: 6-8
Calories per serving: 180
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Grandma’s Onion Squares
These onion squares are a dream when paired with a warm bowl of soup, a crisp side salad, or even alongside grilled meats. They also make a fantastic snack on their own, perfect for dipping into sour cream or your favorite sauce.
Additional Tips
- For an extra crispy texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Want to add some kick? A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce in the batter will do the trick.
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan for a fun twist.
- If you’re making these ahead of time, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.
FAQ’s
Can I use red onions instead of yellow onions?
Yes! Red onions will add a slightly sharper, more intense flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven before serving.
Can I freeze Grandma’s Onion Squares?
Yes, they freeze well! Wrap them tightly and store for up to a month. Reheat in the oven for best results.
What can I use instead of butter?
Olive oil works well for a lighter option, but butter gives the best flavor.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Yes! Cheese makes everything better. Try adding shredded cheddar or parmesan.
How do I keep my onion squares from getting soggy?
Make sure to caramelize the onions well and avoid adding too much liquid to the batter.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the regular flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Can I use a different baking dish?
Yes, just adjust the baking time if using a deeper or shallower dish.
What can I serve these with?
They pair beautifully with soups, salads, or even as a side for grilled meats.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Onion Squares are the kind of recipe that turns simple ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or just to treat yourself, these golden squares of goodness will never disappoint. Give them a try, and trust me—they’ll become a new favorite in no time!
Print
Grandma’s Onion Squares
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: ppetizer/Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Grandma’s Onion Squares is a cherished family recipe brought from Italy, featuring a savory onion topping over a tender biscuit-like base.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced onions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons shortening
- 2/3 cup 2% milk
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Onion Topping: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, salt, and pepper; sauté until onions are tender.
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, combine flour and baking powder. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk to form a soft dough.
- Assemble the Base: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough gently. Roll out to fit a greased 13×9-inch baking pan; transfer dough to the pan.
- Add Onion Layer: Evenly spread the sautéed onions over the dough.
- Prepare Sour Cream Mixture: In a small bowl, beat the egg and sour cream until smooth. Spread this mixture over the onion layer.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve warm.
Notes
- For added flavor, sprinkle paprika over the sour cream layer before baking.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or as a side to a hearty soup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg