Caramelized Onion and Cheddar Soufflé

Name: Caramelized Onion and Cheddar Soufflé
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese; 3 large eggs, separated; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites

I absolutely adore this Caramelized Onion and Cheddar Soufflé, and I think you will too! The combination of sweet, slowly caramelized onions and sharp cheddar creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Soufflés may seem intimidating at first, but trust me, with a little patience and the right technique, you’ll achieve that perfect rise. My family devours it every time I make it, and it always impresses guests at dinner parties. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together and bring a little sophistication to our meal!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-08T16:02:35.037Z

The first time I tried making a soufflé was a bit daunting, but the results were well worth it. I remember the rich aroma of caramelized onions filling my kitchen, instantly making my mouth water. Using aged cheddar adds depth and a nice tang that balances the sweetness of the onions beautifully. I recommend taking your time with the caramelization; it amplifies the flavor beyond what you might expect.

During my trials, I discovered the importance of folding the egg whites into the mixture gently. This technique is vital for achieving a light and airy texture. Don’t rush it! The first time I didn’t fold enough, and my soufflé fell flat. Now, I fold with care, and the result is always a delightful puff that everyone loves.

        Why You'll Love This Soufflé
        Irresistibly sweet and savory flavor profile
Light, airy texture that delights the palate
Perfectly elegant for special occasions or cozy dinners

      

Mastering the Art of Soufflé

A soufflé may seem daunting, but understanding the technique is key. The light and airy texture you seek is achieved by whipping the egg whites to stiff peaks. This process incorporates air into the whites, which expands during baking, causing the soufflé to rise beautifully. Use a glass or metal bowl for whipping, ensuring it is completely clean and free of any grease.

When folding the whipped egg whites into the base, do this in three additions. Start by mixing a small amount of egg whites into the onion mixture to lighten it, then gently fold in the rest. Be careful not to deflate the air you've incorporated, as this will compromise the soufflé's height and texture.

Choosing Your Ingredients Wisely

The choice of onions is crucial for the depth of flavor in your soufflé. I recommend using yellow onions for their natural sweetness when caramelized. Sweet onions can also be a great alternative, yielding a slightly milder flavor. As for the cheese, a sharp cheddar brings a distinct tang that beautifully complements the sweetness of the onions. If you're looking for a milder taste, an aged cheddar can work as well, but avoid processed cheeses which won’t melt as smoothly.

For those with dietary restrictions, you can experiment with dairy-free cheese alternatives and non-dairy milk for a lactose-free version. Just ensure that the dairy-free cheese melts well to achieve a creamy texture. Additionally, if you're watching your calories, you can reduce the amount of butter or even use a non-stick cooking spray to grease the dish.

Ingredients

For the Soufflé

2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
3 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 20 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Prepare the Soufflé Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the milk and flour until smooth. Stir in the caramelized onions and cheddar cheese. Beat the egg yolks into the mixture, season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Whip the Egg Whites

In a separate clean bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This is crucial for the soufflé to rise. Gently fold the egg whites into the onion mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate them.

Bake the Soufflé

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a soufflé dish or individual ramekins. Pour the soufflé mixture into the dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy the delicious, fluffy soufflé while it's still warm!

Pro Tips

For best results, ensure your mixing bowls and utensils are clean and free of grease when whipping the egg whites. This helps achieve maximum volume in your soufflé.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Soufflés are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but you can prepare the caramelized onions in advance to save time. Cook them up to two days ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to make your soufflé, simply incorporate the chilled onions back into the mixture before adding the egg whites.

If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate them for a maximum of one day. To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and place the soufflé on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. This will help revive some of its initial fluffiness without drying it out.

Serving Suggestions

This soufflé pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing will complement the rich, cheesy flavor while cutting through the sweetness of the caramelized onions. Consider adding walnuts or cranberries to the salad for an extra texture and flavor contrast.

For a more indulgent experience, serve your soufflé with a dollop of crème fraîche or a drizzle of balsamic reduction on top. These additions enhance the overall dining experience and can make for a stunning presentation, perfect for impressing guests during special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soufflé ahead of time?

It's best to serve soufflés immediately after baking since they will start to deflate. However, you can prepare the onion mixture in advance and store it in the fridge.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for its strong flavor, but you could also experiment with Gruyère or a combination of cheeses for a different taste.

→ Can I add vegetables or meats to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite cooked vegetables or diced ham for a more substantial dish.

→ What should I serve with the soufflé?

A light salad or some roasted vegetables complement this soufflé nicely, making it a complete meal.