These Gruyere Crusted Onion Bites are the perfect way to up your appetizer game! Paired with a zesty bloomin’ onion-inspired dipping sauce, this delicious twist on a classic favorite will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You'll Love It:
There’s something undeniably magical about these Gruyère Crusted Onion Bites that just make them impossible to stop eating!
Biting into a crispy, golden exterior that gives way to sweet, tender onions and crunchy, melted Gruyère cheese—is just pure heaven. And if you agree, then you will probably love my parmesan crusted brussels sprouts which are also just as delicious!
The nutty richness of Emmi Le Gruyère is like non other and I love how it contrasts with the sweetness of the baked onions.
We can't forget about that dipping sauce! It’s the perfect pairing, bringing a tangy kick that complements the cheesy bites beautifully.
And I know the original one has horseradish but I'm a supertaster and it ruins everything I eat so I left it out. If you love horseradish, I think you would want to add about 1 tablespoon!
Whether I’m hosting a cozy gathering or just treating me and my hubs on a Friday night, these bites are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion and I know you're going to love them!
Ingredients and Substitutions
For the Onions:
- Sweet Onions: Can substitute with yellow onions, white onions, red onions or even shallots for a slightly different flavor.
- Emmi Le Gruyère: You definitely want to use a good quality Gruyère cheese but you could also use parmesan cheese, asiago or swiss.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are totally fine, but panko provides a crunchier texture.
- All-Purpose Seasoning Blend: Substitute with a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like thyme or oregano if you don't have a fav go-to all purpose seasoning blend.
- Olive Oil: Not into olive oil? Try melted butter or avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
For the Dipping Sauce:
- Mayonnaise: Mayo is my first choice because that's what Outback Steakhouse uses... But Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used for a lighter option.
- Ketchup: Ketchup is best but you can use tomato sauce or a spicy ketchup for an extra kick.
- Lemon Juice: Lime juice or vinegar can be used as a substitute for acidity.
- Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth, or you can use regular paprika or even chili powder for a bit more heat.
- Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can be used if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor. Garlic salt also works well.
- Oregano: No real sub on the oregano. You can leave it out if you don't have any.
- Cayenne: Red pepper flakes can be used for a milder heat, or you can leave it out for a non-spicy version.
- Salt and Pepper: Adjust to taste or use seasoned salt for added flavor.
Instructions
Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a nonstick baking sheet, sprinkle the grated Emmi Le Gruyère evenly across the surface. Layer the thinly sliced sweet onions on top—aim for about 9 slices, depending on the size of your onions.
Create the Crunch: In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, all-purpose seasoning blend, and olive oil. Stir until the breadcrumbs are fully coated in oil. This mixture will give your bites that irresistible crunch!
Assemble and Bake: Evenly distribute the panko mixture over the onion slices. Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the Gruyère is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
Whip Up the Sauce: While the gruyere crusted onion bites are baking, mix together your dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, and cayenne. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit to let those flavors meld together.
Serve It Up: Once the cheese is perfectly golden and lacy, take the baking sheet out of the oven and let the bites rest for about 5 minutes.
Save: Although served fresh is best, you can place any leftovers in an airtight container or ziplock bag and keep in the fridge for 2 days.
What to serve with them
I love serving these tasty gruyere crusted onion bites as a side dish and as an appetizer. Here are some of my favorite easy recipes to pair them with:
- Pepperoni Alla Vodka Pasta
- Dutch Oven Beef Stew Recipe with Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- Easy Yellow Squash & Zucchini Recipe (Simple Southern Side)
- Cheesy Crockpot Potatoes Au Gratin with Gruyere & Crispy Breadcrumbs
Recipe
Gruyere Crusted Onion Bites with Bloomin’ Onion Inspired Sauce
Ingredients
FOR THE ONIONS
- 2 small Sweet Onions sliced thin
- 1 6 oz block Emmi Le Gruyère grated
- ¾ cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon All Purpose Seasoning Blend
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil
FOR THE DIPPING SAUCE
- ½ cup Mayonnaise
- 2 heaping tsp Ketchup
- ½ Lemon juiced
- ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 pinch Oregano
- 1 pinch Cayenne
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400F degrees.
- Add shredded Le Gruyère to a nonstick baking sheet and top with onion slices - about 9 or so depending on the size of your onions.
- In a separate bowl, stir together breadcrumbs, seasoning and olive oil and stir to combine.
- Evenly distribute the panko mixture across the tops of the onions and place in the oven for 25 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, mix together all the ingredients in the sauce and season with salt and pepper. Let it sit while the onions cook.
- Once the Le Gruyère is golden brown and Lacey around the edges, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting it into bite sized pieces.
- Serve with the dipping sauce and enjoy!
