This Baked Brie with Caramelized Onions is a warm, gooey delight! The creamy cheese pairs perfectly with sweet, golden onions for a tasty treat that’s hard to resist.
No one’s judging if you scoop it up with your favorite crackers or bread—it’s just that good! I love serving this at parties; it always gets gobbled up fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: This rich cheese is the star of the dish. If you can’t find Brie, Camembert works well as a substitute, offering a similar creamy texture and flavor.
Onions: Use yellow onions for their sweetness, but you could also try shallots for a slightly different taste. If you’re looking for a quicker option, pre-sautéed caramelized onions can be a time saver!
Butter and Olive Oil: The mix gives the onions great flavor. You can opt for just olive oil if you want a dairy-free option. Alternatively, use vegan butter for a plant-based version.
Thyme: This herb enhances the dish beautifully. If fresh thyme isn’t available, dried thyme can substitute, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Can I Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions takes time but is so worth it for that sweet, deep flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium-low heat; this prevents the onions from burning while they slowly cook down.
- Keep stirring occasionally, about every 5 minutes, to ensure even cooking and to avoid sticking.
- If the onions are sticking to the pan, add a splash of wine or water to loosen them up.
- When they are richly golden and fragrant, that’s your cue to season and finish them up!
Take your time—good caramelized onions can be a game-changer in this recipe!
Baked Brie With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Baked Brie:
- 1 large wheel of Brie cheese (about 8-12 ounces)
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to help caramelize)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or water (optional, for deglazing)
- Fresh thyme, a few sprigs (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Baguette or sliced crusty bread
- Crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to cook, including the time to caramelize the onions. So in total, you can expect to spend approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it’s nice and hot for the Brie when it’s ready to bake.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add the butter and olive oil. Once melted and hot, add the sliced onions. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-35 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are caramelized. If the onions start to stick to the pan, don’t worry! Just add a splash of wine or water to deglaze it.
3. Season the Onions:
Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, stir in the sugar (if you’re using it), salt, pepper, and fresh thyme leaves. Give everything a good mix and let it cook for another minute before removing it from the heat.
4. Prepare the Brie:
While the onions are cooking, place the wheel of Brie on a baking sheet or in a small oven-safe dish. This is where the cheesy magic happens!
5. Add the Onions:
Spoon the sweet, caramelized onions generously over the top of the Brie, letting all that deliciousness cover the cheese
6. Bake the Brie:
Put the Brie in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. You want it to be softened and starting to ooze but not completely melted—keep an eye on it!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the Brie from the oven. Feel free to garnish with extra sprigs of fresh thyme if you’d like. Serve it immediately with slices of baguette and/or crackers for dipping.
Enjoy this warm, gooey Baked Brie with caramelized onions—it’s the perfect appetizer for any gathering or a cozy snack for yourself!
Can I Use Store-Bought Caramelized Onions?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought caramelized onions can save you effort while still providing a delicious flavor. Just warm them up before adding them to the Brie.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Brie?
If you have any leftovers, let the Brie cool to room temperature, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Brie Cheese?
If you can’t find Brie, Camembert or a creamier goat cheese can work well as substitutes. They offer similar textures and flavors, ensuring a delicious result in this dish!
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can caramelize the onions ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the dish and bake it as directed for freshly warmed cheese!