Easy Onion Boil Recipe
Try this Easy Onion Boil Recipe with yellow onions, butter, garlic, and Old Bay seasoning simmered in rich broth for bold flavor.
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Ladle (for serving)
Ingredients
- 6 large yellow onions peeled and halved
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning or seafood seasoning blend
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for heat
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Optional additions:
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- A splash of hot sauce
- Fresh cracked black pepper at the end
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Onions
- Peel the onions and cut them in half from top to bottom. Keep the root end intact if possible — this helps the layers stay together while cooking.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
- Place your pot over medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt slowly. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let it brown.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
- Stir in the Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toast the spices gently in the butter for about 20–30 seconds. This wakes up their flavor.
Step 4: Add the Broth
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir well to combine everything into a fragrant base.
Step 5: Add the Onions
- Carefully nestle the onion halves into the broth, cut side down if possible. The liquid should come about halfway up the onions. If needed, add a little more broth.
Step 6: Simmer Gently
- Bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and cook for 30–40 minutes. The onions should become very tender when pierced with a knife.
Step 7: Finish and Brighten
- Once tender, stir in lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Spoon some of the seasoned butter broth over the onions before serving.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve warm.