Creamy Dill Onion Boil

Name: Creamy Dill Onion Boil
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large onions, peeled and quartered; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm Plate Recipes Quick Comfort

I love creating easy yet flavorful recipes, and this Creamy Dill Onion Boil is one of my favorites. The combination of fresh dill and creamy sauce transforms simple onions into a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It's comforting and delicious, making it an ideal side for grilled meats or a light vegetarian main. We often enjoy it during family gatherings, where everyone can't get enough of its rich flavors. Try it out; you’ll find it’s a fantastic addition to your recipe collection!

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-02-14T15:42:19.878Z

When I first made this Creamy Dill Onion Boil, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such a rich flavor. The key is in the freshness of the dill; I always opt for the freshest herbs I can find, as they elevate the dish significantly. The creamy sauce envelops the caramelized onions beautifully, making each bite an experience.

One tip I discovered is to let the onions simmer for a little longer than usual. This technique enhances their natural sweetness and creates a wonderful contrast with the tangy cream sauce. Trust me, it’s worth the time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that envelops perfectly cooked onions
Fresh dill adds a burst of flavor that elevates the dish
Quick to prepare but makes a lasting impression on your guests

Perfecting the Onions

Choosing the right onions is crucial for this dish. I recommend using sweet or yellow onions, as they lend a natural sweetness and a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. When quartering the onions, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking, cut them into approximately one-inch pieces. This will help them caramelize nicely, creating those appealing golden edges that enhance their sweetness and improve the overall texture of the dish.

Sautéing the onions correctly sets the foundation for flavor. Cook them over medium heat, avoiding high heat to prevent burning. You want to achieve a nice translucency combined with slight caramelization, which takes about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, stirring occasionally, so they don’t stick to the pot or develop an overly dark color, as this can lead to bitterness in the final dish.

The Role of Dairy and Herbs

Heavy cream is essential for creating that rich, velvety sauce. It provides a luxurious mouthfeel and helps to coat the onions perfectly, enhancing each bite. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but be aware that the sauce may be less creamy and thick. For a non-dairy alternative, coconut cream can work, although it will introduce a different flavor profile, so taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Fresh dill is the star herb in this recipe, adding a bright, aromatic quality that complements the creamy elements beautifully. If fresh dill isn't available, dried dill can be used, but since it's more concentrated, use it sparingly—about one tablespoon should suffice. Additionally, consider personalizing this dish by incorporating other herbs, like chives or parsley, to add a different twist to the flavor.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Dill Onion Boil

4 large onions, peeled and quartered
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
3 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Sauté the Onions

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the quartered onions and sauté for about 10 minutes until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.

Add Cream and Seasonings

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the heavy cream, adding salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Simmer with Dill

Reduce the heat to low and add in the chopped dill. Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Serve

Once the sauce is creamy and the onions are tender, serve hot as a side dish or over a bed of rice for a delightful main course.

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This brightens the dish and balances the creaminess beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Dill Onion Boil pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, providing a fresh contrast to the smoke and char. It's also delightful served over a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the creamy sauce to soak into the grains. I find that garnishing with extra fresh dill right before serving helps to brighten the dish further, adding visual appeal as well as flavor.

For a heartier meal, consider serving the creamy onions alongside roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. The cooling elements of a salad can balance the richness of the dish. Alternatively, you can incorporate protein by tossing in cooked chickpeas or lentils, transforming it into a vegetarian main that’s both delicious and fulfilling.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

The Creamy Dill Onion Boil can be made ahead of time, making it a great choice for gatherings. After preparing, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to maintain creaminess—cooking it too quickly can cause the sauce to separate.

If you’d like to freeze it, I recommend doing so before adding the dill. Freeze the creamy onion base in an airtight container for up to three months. When ready to use, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove and stir in fresh dill at the end for the best flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen onions?

Although fresh onions provide the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen onions in a pinch. Just ensure to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative if you're looking for a lighter dish. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid curdling the cream.

→ Can this dish be served cold?

Yes, this dish can also be enjoyed cold as a salad. Just let it cool and serve it chilled over fresh greens.