Creamed Pearl Onions with Sage and Thyme

Why You’ll Love Creamed Pearl Onions with Sage and Thyme Recipe

This creamed pearl onions recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious side that’s both comforting and refined. The gentle sweetness of the pearl onions pairs beautifully with a creamy sauce, brightened by the earthy warmth of fresh sage and thyme. Its elegant presentation makes it a standout on holiday tables, yet it’s straightforward enough to make any night of the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

butter
all-purpose flour
whole milk
fresh sage, finely chopped
fresh thyme, finely chopped
pearl onions
kosher salt
black peppercorns and ground pepper
bay leaves

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the pearl onions just until the skins loosen, about 1–2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice water bath to cool. Peel the onions by trimming the root ends and slipping off the skins.

3. Return the saucepan of water to a boil with the bay leaves and black peppercorns. Add the peeled onions and simmer until just tender, about 5–8 minutes. Drain and pat dry.

4. Arrange the cooked onions in a baking dish.

5. In a separate saucepan over moderate heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbling and just beginning to take on a light color.

6. Gradually whisk in the milk, simmering until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

7. Stir the chopped sage and thyme into the sauce, then season with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste.

8. Pour the herbed cream sauce over the onions in the baking dish.

9. Bake for about 20 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and edges are lightly golden. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 8
Active time: approximately 40 minutes
Total time (including baking): about 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add a splash of dry white wine to the sauce for additional acidity and depth of flavor.
• Stir in grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese before baking for a cheesy variation.
• Swap or supplement the sage and thyme with fresh rosemary or parsley for an herbal twist.
• For extra richness, use half heavy cream and half milk in the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven until heated through; adding a splash of milk or cream can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much upon cooling.

FAQs

What are creamed pearl onions?

Creamed pearl onions are tender small onions cooked in a rich cream sauce often flavored with herbs like sage and thyme. The cream sauce envelops the onions, creating a luxurious side dish.

Do I need to peel pearl onions?

Yes, pearl onions should be peeled before cooking. Blanching them briefly in boiling water makes it much easier to remove their skins.

Can I use frozen pearl onions?

Yes, you can substitute frozen pearl onions. If using frozen, they are often already peeled, which can save prep time.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the onions and sauce ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving.

What can I serve with creamed pearl onions?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, mashed potatoes, and other hearty main courses.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, adding grated cheese like Parmesan or Gruyère to the sauce before baking adds richness and flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers should be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in the oven until warmed through, adding a bit of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended for best texture, as cream sauces can separate when thawed.

Can I make a lighter version?

You can lighten the sauce by using half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream, but the texture will be less rich than the classic version.

Conclusion

Creamed Pearl Onions with Sage and Thyme offers a delightful combination of creamy texture and aromatic herb flavor. Elegant enough for holiday dinners yet approachable for everyday cooking, this side dish is sure to become a favorite. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you’ll love the way it elevates your meal and impresses your guests.