Smoked Bacon Wrapped French Vidalia Onion Recipe
If you’re looking for an unforgettable side dish to impress your guests at your next barbecue or family gathering, this smoked bacon wrapped French Vidalia onion recipe is just what you need. The combination of sweet Vidalia onions, crispy bacon, and a smoky finish creates an irresistible dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a stand-alone appetizer.
Ingredients for the Recipe
To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 small to medium Vidalia onions
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 4 oz Gruyere cheese (sliced or shredded)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Montreal seasoning
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup dry vermouth
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For more smoked onion variations, you can explore dishes like Grilled Mushroom Bacon Bites or Ultimate Bacon Potato Casserole.
Preparation Steps for Bacon-Wrapped Onions
1. Prepping the Vidalia Onions
- Step 1: Peel the onions and cut off the top and bottom to create flat surfaces.
- Step 2: Scoop out the core of the onions, making sure to leave enough of the outer layers intact.
- Step 3: Brush the onions with olive oil and season them generously with Montreal seasoning.
2. Wrapping the Onions in Bacon
- Step 1: Wrap each onion with a slice of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks.
- Step 2: Make sure the bacon is tight around the onion to avoid unraveling during smoking.
3. Smoking the Onions
- Step 1: Preheat your smoker to 250°F and prepare the wood chips (apple or hickory for a sweet, smoky flavor).
- Step 2: Place the onions in the smoker and cook for approximately 2 hours, basting with beef broth and vermouth every 30 minutes.
Explore other comforting smoker dishes like The Ultimate Comfort Food: Crockpot Potato Soup.
Cheese Topping and Final Touches
1. Adding Gruyere Cheese
- Step 1: During the last 10 minutes of smoking, fill the hollowed-out center of each onion with sliced Gruyere cheese.
- Step 2: Continue smoking until the cheese melts and becomes golden and bubbly.
2. Garnishing and Serving
- Step 1: Remove the onions from the smoker and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
- Step 2: Serve immediately while the bacon is crispy and the cheese is still warm.
For a sweeter pairing, consider serving this dish alongside Slow Cooker Magic Baked Ziti.
Tips for Perfect Smoked Bacon Wrapped Onions
- Choosing the Best Onions: Always opt for Vidalia onions due to their natural sweetness, but any sweet onion can be substituted.
- Bacon Wrapping Technique: Wrapping the bacon tightly ensures it stays in place during cooking.
- Basting for Flavor: Basting the onions regularly with beef broth and vermouth adds moisture and enhances flavor.
You might also enjoy other smoked variations such as the Crispy Bacon Grilled Cheese.
Nutritional Information and Health Tips
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 20g
- Protein: 12g
Healthier Substitutions:
- Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon to reduce fat content.
- Opt for a low-sodium broth if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
1. Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating Instructions
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or until warmed through.
If you’re planning for future meals, you can also make dishes like Sheetpan Pancakes for breakfast ahead of time.
FAQs About Smoked Bacon Wrapped French Vidalia Onion
Q: Can I use a grill instead of a smoker?
A: Yes! Set your grill up for indirect heat and add wood chips for that smoky flavor.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: You can prepare the onions ahead of time, wrap them in bacon, and refrigerate them. Just smoke them before serving.
Q: What other cheeses can I use besides Gruyere?
A: Cheddar, mozzarella, or even Gouda would work well for this recipe.
Q: How can I make the onions softer?
A: If you prefer softer onions, cook them at a lower temperature for a longer time or wrap them in foil halfway through the smoking process.
Conclusion
This smoked bacon wrapped French Vidalia onion recipe combines the sweetness of Vidalia onions with the savory, smoky flavor of bacon. The addition of Gruyere cheese takes this dish to the next level, making it a perfect side dish or appetizer for any barbecue or family gathering. For more delicious recipes, don’t forget to check out Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Casserole and Sour Cream & French Fried Onion Pork Chops.
