This cozy onion boil recipe is a simple, budget-friendly way to turn humble onion into a comforting bowl of flavor. Think tender whole onions simmered gently in a seasoned broth until sweet, silky, and deeply savory. It fits right in with winter meal ideas and warm meals for cold days, especially when you want something soothing without a long ingredient list. If you love onion-forward comfort foods like classic French onion soup, this onion boil delivers that same cozy vibe with far less prep.
Why You’ll Love It
- Simple ingredients: Mostly onion, broth, and pantry spices.
- Deep flavor: Slow simmering brings out natural sweetness.
- Flexible: Keep it light like vegetable soup or make it rich and buttery.
- Perfect for winter: A go-to option for winter meals dinners.
Onion Boil Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This cozy onion boil recipe is a simple, budget-friendly way to turn humble onion into a comforting bowl of flavor. Tender whole onions simmer in seasoned broth until sweet, silky, and deeply savory — a perfect winter warmer.
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, peeled (leave whole)
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional: 1 tbsp onion soup mix (for a bolder onion soup note)
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives
Instructions
- Peel the onions and trim the root end just enough so they sit flat, but stay whole.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, add broth, water, butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Gently place the whole onions into the pot so they are mostly submerged.
- Bring to a light boil, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes, until the onions are very tender when pierced.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove the bay leaf. Serve hot with broth ladled over each onion.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add an extra tablespoon of butter near the end. Swap in rosemary or sage for the thyme for a wintery twist. Want it cheesy? Top with Gruyère or Swiss and broil. To serve soup-style, slice the onions after cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 onion with broth
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: onion boil, cozy recipe, winter soup, simple onion recipe, warm meal
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, peeled (leave whole)
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional: 1 tbsp onion soup mix (for a bolder onion soup note)
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives
Instructions
- Prep the onions: Peel the onions and trim the root end just enough so they sit flat, but stay whole.
- Build the broth: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add broth, water, butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Add the onions: Gently place the whole onions into the pot so they are mostly submerged.
- Simmer: Bring to a light boil, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes, until the onions are very tender when pierced.
- Finish: Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove the bay leaf. Serve hot with broth ladled over each onion.
Tips & Variations
- Richer flavor: Add an extra tablespoon of butter near the end.
- Herb swap: Rosemary or sage works well for winter meals.
- Cheesy finish: Top with shredded Gruyère or Swiss and broil briefly.
- Soup-style: Slice the onions after cooking and serve like onion soup.
Substitutions
Yellow onions are classic, but sweet onions make the dish even milder. Red onions add color and a slightly sharper bite. For the broth, vegetable broth keeps it plant-based, while chicken broth adds depth. If you enjoy shortcuts, a small amount of onion soup mix can replace part of the seasoning for an easy onion soup mix recipe feel.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this onion boil with crusty bread to soak up the broth, or alongside a simple salad for balance. It also pairs well with other cozy vegetable soup options when you want a light but warming spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
FAQs
Is onion boil the same as onion soup?
Not exactly. Onion boil keeps the onions whole and focuses on gentle simmering, while onion soup usually starts with sliced onions and longer cooking for caramelization.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes. The flavor improves as it rests, making it great for winter meals and meal prep.
Is this dish spicy?
No. It is mild and savory, but you can add red pepper flakes if you like heat.
More to Try
Conclusion
This onion boil recipe proves that onion recipes do not need to be complicated to be comforting. With just a few ingredients, you get a warm, soothing dish that belongs on any list of winter meals dinners or warm meals for cold days. Simple, cozy, and full of flavor, it is a recipe you will come back to all season long.