Creamed onions are a time-honored classic, a comforting side dish that frequently graces tables during festive gatherings, especially around the holidays. While perhaps not as ubiquitous as green bean casserole or mashed potatoes, they hold a special place in the hearts of many families as a cherished tradition. For those who embrace a plant-based lifestyle, enjoying these nostalgic flavors can sometimes be a challenge. That’s precisely why I was determined to give this traditional, beloved recipe a complete and utterly satisfying vegan makeover.

In this incredible recipe, we depart from the traditional method of cooking pearl onions in heavy cream and butter. Instead, we create an exquisite, dairy-free sauce by combining a classic roux with a luscious cashew cream. Using only cashew cream might result in a sauce that’s a touch too opulent for some, but the brilliant combination with a roux provides the perfect balance: exceptional thickness without any overwhelming heaviness. The result is a velvety, flavorful sauce that perfectly coats tender pearl onions, making these vegan creamed pearl onions an absolutely perfect and easy side dish to elevate your Thanksgiving dinner or any celebratory meal!

Why You’ll Adore This Vegan Creamed Onions Recipe

Beyond being a fantastic dairy-free alternative, this vegan creamed onions recipe offers a multitude of reasons to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Unforgettable Rich Flavor. These creamed onions achieve that quintessential balance of sweet and savoury, amplified by the natural sweetness of the pearl onions and the incredible depth of flavour from the creamy, cashew-based sauce. The hint of nutmeg adds a warm, comforting note, creating a truly luxurious taste experience that mirrors the classic version, if not surpasses it.
• Remarkably Versatile. While undeniably a show-stopping side dish, especially for holiday feasts, these creamed onions are also incredibly versatile. You can spoon them generously over other savoury dishes, transforming them into a decadent sauce. Imagine them served with vegan meatloaf, alongside roasted vegetables, or even mixed into a casserole. Their creamy texture and rich flavour make them an excellent accompaniment to a wide range of plant-based entrées.
• Effortlessly Easy to Make. Don’t let the elegant appearance fool you; this is a straightforward stovetop recipe that comes together with minimal fuss and effort. The steps are simple, requiring basic cooking techniques. This ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy holiday entertaining, allowing you to create a sophisticated dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Yet, it looks (and tastes!) incredibly fancy, which is precisely why it’s a perfect option for special occasions, while also being simple enough for a delightful weeknight meal.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Vegan Creamed Onions

Crafting these delectable vegan creamed onions requires a few key plant-based ingredients that work harmoniously to create their signature creamy texture and rich flavor. Each component plays an important role. Below are some detailed notes on what you’ll need to gather.

For precise ingredient quantities and detailed recipe instructions, please scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of this page.

• Raw Cashews – These are the superstar ingredient for our dairy-free cream. It’s crucial to use raw cashews, not roasted, as they will blend into a far smoother, creamier sauce. Soaking them in water is a non-negotiable step to ensure they soften sufficiently for a silky-smooth texture when blended.
• Unsweetened Plant-Based Milk – Any variety of unflavoured and unsweetened plant milk will work beautifully here. Popular choices include almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just be sure to avoid vanilla or sweetened versions, as these will alter the savoury flavour profile of the dish.
• Vegetable Broth – This liquid gold forms the base of our flavourful sauce. I highly recommend using my homemade vegetable broth for the deepest flavour, but a good quality store-bought low-sodium vegetable broth is also perfectly acceptable.
• Nutritional Yeast Flakes – Don’t skip this! Nutritional yeast is a staple in vegan cooking, known for its distinct umami and “cheesy” flavour. It contributes a wonderful depth and savouriness to our creamy sauce, mimicking some of the richness you’d expect from dairy.
• Pearl Onions – These small, sweet onions are the star of the dish. You can typically find fresh pearl onions in bags near the regular onions in most well-stocked grocery stores, especially during holiday seasons. If fresh aren’t available or you’re short on time, thawed frozen pearl onions are an excellent substitute; you can even skip the initial boiling step if using pre-peeled frozen ones.
• Vegan Butter – Essential for creating a flavourful roux and adding richness. You can either use my easy homemade vegan butter recipe or opt for a high-quality store-bought brand. Choose one that melts well and has a neutral or slightly buttery flavour.
• All-Purpose Flour – This is used to create the roux, which is vital for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency. For those with gluten sensitivities, a measure-for-measure gluten-free all-purpose flour blend should work well as a direct substitute, although I haven’t personally tested it.
• Seasonings – A sprinkle of ground nutmeg adds a classic, warm, and comforting note that complements the onions and cream perfectly. Of course, salt and pepper are essential for seasoning to taste and balancing all the flavours.
• Fresh Parsley – While optional, a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a bright, herbaceous garnish that enhances the visual appeal and provides a fresh contrast to the rich creaminess of the dish.

How to Master These Creamy Vegan Pearl Onions

Making these vegan creamed onions is a straightforward process, primarily done on the stovetop. Follow these simple steps for a truly delightful dish:

• Prepare the Cashew Cream. First, ensure your raw cashews are properly soaked (either overnight or for at least 30 minutes in hot water). Drain them thoroughly, then transfer them to a high-speed blender. Add the unsweetened plant-based milk, vegetable broth, and nutritional yeast flakes. Blend on high until the mixture is incredibly smooth and velvety, with no gritty pieces of cashew remaining. This smooth consistency is crucial for a luxurious sauce.
• Pre-cook the Pearl Onions. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the peeled pearl onions to the boiling water and cook them for approximately 5 minutes. This step is to slightly tenderize the onions and ensure they cook through evenly in the sauce. Once tender, drain them thoroughly in a colander and set them aside.
• Craft the Roux. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Using a whisk, stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the flour is fully incorporated, forming a smooth paste, and has turned a light golden color. This is your roux, the thickening agent for our rich sauce.
• Finish the Silky Sauce. Gradually begin to whisk the prepared cashew cream into the roux. Pour it in slowly, whisking continuously to ensure no lumps form. Continue to whisk gently as the sauce heats up. It will start to thicken as it comes to a simmer and you see the first bubbles appear. Once it reaches your desired consistency, whisk in the ground nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Incorporate the Onions. Gently stir the pre-cooked pearl onions into the luscious, thickened sauce, making sure they are evenly coated. Allow the onions to simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes. This simmering time is important as it allows the onions to fully absorb the incredible flavours of the cream sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick during this time, you can add a splash more vegetable broth to thin it to your preference.
• Serve and Garnish. Once the onions are heated through and the sauce is perfectly seasoned, transfer the vegan creamed onions to a beautiful serving dish. For a final touch of freshness and visual appeal, garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips and Delicious Variations for Creamed Onions

Elevate your vegan creamed onions with these helpful tips and creative variations:

• The Trick to Easy Onion Peeling. Pearl onions, while delightful, can be notoriously tedious to peel due to their small size. To simplify this task, blanch them first: bring a pot of water to a boil, add the onions for just 1 minute, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath. The cold shock will loosen their skins, making them much easier to peel by simply snipping off the root end and squeezing.
• Herbaceous Additions. While fresh parsley is a classic garnish, don’t hesitate to experiment with other aromatic herbs. Fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage all complement the sweet and savoury notes of creamed onions beautifully. You can chop them finely and add them as a garnish instead of parsley, or stir them directly into the sauce just before adding the onions for a deeper, infused flavour.
• Crispy, Topped Onions. For an extra layer of texture and flavour, consider transforming your stovetop creamed onions into a baked and topped dish. Simply transfer the finished creamed onions to a baking dish. You can then top them with a generous layer of shredded vegan Parmesan cheese for a bubbly, savory crust, or sprinkle with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs tossed with melted vegan butter for a golden, crispy topping. Place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly or the breadcrumbs are beautifully golden brown and toasted. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
• Mushroom Medley: For an earthier flavour profile, consider sautéing some thinly sliced cremini or button mushrooms with the vegan butter before adding the flour for the roux. This adds another layer of umami and texture.
• Spice it Up (or down): Adjust the nutmeg to your preference, or try a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick that will warm up the dish.

What to Serve With These Delicious Vegan Creamed Onions

These creamy vegan pearl onions are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a wide array of hearty vegan main courses, making them perfect for holiday feasts or any special occasion. Their rich, savoury flavour complements many dishes, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Consider pairing your luscious creamed onions with a show-stopping vegan main dish like a savory Vegan Wellington or a festive Vegan Turkey Roast for an unforgettable holiday spread. When served as part of a grand holiday dinner, I absolutely love presenting them alongside other classic and equally delicious plant-based sides. Imagine a plate filled with the vibrant hues and delectable flavours of Cranberry Orange Sauce, warm and fluffy Vegan Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls, and sweet, comforting Mashed Sweet Potatoes. The creamed onions add a luxurious, comforting element that ties all these flavours together beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious vegan creamed onions for days to come. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigerator Storage: Any leftover creamed onions should be transferred to an airtight container and can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Ensure the container is sealed well to maintain freshness and prevent other food odors from permeating the dish.
• Freezer Storage: For longer storage, creamed onions freeze remarkably well. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw the frozen creamed onions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the thawed (or refrigerated) creamed onions in a saucepan over medium-low heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating, warming them through gently until they are hot. Alternatively, for a quick option, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through for best results. If the sauce seems too thick after reheating, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of vegetable broth or plant-based milk to loosen it up.

Explore More Delicious Vegan Side Dishes

If you loved these creamy pearl onions, you’ll surely enjoy exploring other fantastic plant-based side dishes that are perfect for any occasion:

• Creamy Vegan Corn Casserole
• Decadent Sweet Potato Soufflé
• Crispy Air Fryer Green Beans
• Irresistible Crispy Smashed Potatoes
• Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Zucchini