Caramelized Onion and Cheese Phyllo Bites
Caramelized Onion and Cheese Phyllo Bites are small, savory appetizers that pair sweet, slow-cooked onions with melted cheese in crispy phyllo shells, perfect for parties or potlucks.
Ingredients
For the filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2.5 cups beef broth Use low-sodium if preferred.
- 0.75 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.75 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1.5 ounces Gruyère or other sharp white cheese, thinly sliced Cut into small squares.
For assembly
- 18 pieces frozen mini phyllo shells
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish Optional
Instructions
Cooking the Onions
- Heat olive oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
- Pour in the beef broth, onion powder, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
- Continue cooking uncovered over medium-low heat for 40–50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become deeply golden and most of the liquid has evaporated.
Preparing to Bake
- While the onions cook, cut the Gruyère slices into small squares (2 per phyllo cup). Set aside with the grated Parmesan.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the frozen phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
- Place a small pinch of grated Parmesan cheese in the bottom of each shell, followed by about 1 teaspoon of the caramelized onion mixture.
- Top each with two small squares of Gruyère or white cheese.
Baking
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
- Serve these bites warm as a delicious appetizer.
Notes
These bites can also be enjoyed at room temperature, perfect for parties or potluck gatherings. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 6–8 minutes to crisp the shells. You can freeze baked bites; reheat from frozen, adding a couple of minutes.