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    Home » Appetizers and Snacks Recipes

    Published: Jul 17, 2020 · Modified: May 20, 2022 by Renée · This post may contain affiliate links · 31 Comments

    Parmesan Onion Squares Appetizers

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    A vertical closeup image of a Parmesan Onion Square with a bite taken out and a title text overlay graphic
    A vertical closeup photo of a hand holding a Parmesan onion squares appetizer with a bite taken out and a title text overlay graphic

    Parmesan Onion Squares are an easy-to-make appetizer with a light oniony flavor, a crisp yet creamy texture, and a tiny and unexpected touch of sweetness that everyone loves!

    Vertical title text image of Parmesan onion appetizer squares with a bite taken out of the appetizer.

    It seems whenever I'm planning an occasion when appetizers are to be served, these Parmesan Onion Squares always make an appearance. And rightly so.

    This easy cheesy appetizer recipe is one I've been making for what feels like forever because whenever I serve them, they're always a hit!

    This easy appetizer post was originally published in 2013. The post itself has been updated several times, but the recipe itself has never changed.

    **Please Note - The printable recipe card with detailed instructions, complete ingredient measurements, and nutritional information for making Parmesan Onion Appetizer Squares is available near the end of this post. OR you can click on the "jump to recipe" button (found above) to be taken directly to the printable recipe.

    Subscribe to my Kudos Kitchen channel on YouTube. See you there!!

    A vertical collage image of Parmesan Onion Squares with a title text overlay in the center.

    The ingredient list:

    **Note - The following lists of ingredients plus kitchen tools and equipment (highlighted in blue) contain affiliate links for your consideration and shopping convenience.

    • Parmesan Cheese (preferably Parmigiano Reggiano)
    • Grated Onion
    • Mayonnaise
    • Sugar
    • Dried Basil
    • Dried Oregano
    • Salt and Pepper
    • Cocktail Party Bread

    Kitchen tools and equipment needed:

    • Box Grater or Food Processor
    • Mixing Bowls
    • baking sheet
    • parchment paper
    • Measuring Cups and spoons
    • Wooden Spoons or Spatulas
    • Offset Spatula or Butter Knife
    • Serving Platter

    Always popular and ready to party!

    Even Santa is happy when these Parmesan Onion Squares appetizers make their appearance at a party or gathering! 🙂 The photo below is from 2013.

    Parmesan Onion Appetizer Squares with Santa Claus table cloth from 2012

    Can Parmesan Onion Appetizers be made in advance?

    • Yes! I even recommend it! However, it's not the end of the world if it doesn't happen.
    • Mix up the spread in advance and refrigerate until you're ready to spread it on the bread and bake.
    • This can be done up to 48 hours in advance of spreading and baking.

    Can I substitute anything for the cocktail bread?

    • Yes!
    • Substitute a thinly sliced baguette or even crackers will work in a pinch.

    Where to find cocktail bread in the store?

    • I always find mine in the deli section of the grocery store. If you don't see them readily, ask someone. I've seen them in rye and sourdough flavors. I've used both for this recipe.
    • I've also left an affiliate link for the cocktail bread (aka party square bread) if you're unable to find them in your area.
    Closeup photo of golden Parmesan Onion Appetizer Squares

    Is the onion overpowering in this recipe?

    Nope! Not at all!!

    The reason I've added that little touch of sugar into the mix (which may seem surprising) is to take away a lot of that pungent onion bite, leaving only a mild and mellow onion flavor that combines so nicely with the Parmesan cheese.

    Can a different sweetener be used in place of the sugar?

    Yes, by all means use what you like.

    Just remember to taste-as-you-go, and when you're happy with the sweetness level, call it a day.

    These cheesy appetizers aren't meant to be sweet, just sweet enough to take away a little of the bite from the onion.

    That said, the sugar (or sweetener) can be left out entirely if you enjoy a strong onion flavor. Totally your call.

    Potential sugar substitutes:

    • honey
    • agave
    • coconut sugar
    • swerve
    • monk fruit powder

    At what temperature should these appetizers be served?

    These wonderful little appetizers can be served hot, warm, or at room temperature making them perfect for any sort of party!

    The easy instructions:

    • Mix everything in a medium bowl, except the cocktail bread.
    • Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of the Parmesan mixture evenly onto the cocktail bread squares. 
    • Place them on a baking sheet and pop them into a preheated 400-degree oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until they're all puffed and golden.

    How to make Parmesan Onion Appetizer Squares - kudoskitchenbyrenee.com

    Vertical Parmesan Onion Squares photo collage with a title text overlay graphic in the center.

    How to make Parmesan Appetizer Squares:

    Subscribe to my Kudos Kitchen channel on YouTube. See you there!!

    Additional appetizer recipe you'll enjoy:

    • Cream Cheese and Salami Spread with Dill Pickles (pictured below)

    Crave-Worthy Cream Cheese Salami Pickle Dip is a quick and easy update of the salami and pickle pinwheel appetizers of the past, but this updated version is faster, easier, and has a bigger kick of flavor.

    Cream Cheese Salami Spread with Dill Pickles on an oblong tray with fresh dill

    • Creamy Egg Salad Canapes
    • Spinach and Artichoke Squares
    • Honey and Sesame Seed Crackers
    • Corn and Black Bean Dip
    • Patty Melt Dip (pictured below)

    Everything you love about a patty melt sandwich is in this easy to make Patty Melt Dip. It’s sure to be a real crowd-pleaser at your next party or celebration!

    A bowl full of cheesy patty melt dip on party square bread

    • Cranberry Orange Meatballs from Sugar and Soul
    • Ham And Cheese Croissant Bites from Coffee with Us 3
    • Cheesy Polenta Fries from Jenni Field's Pastry Chef Online
    • Cuban Sausage Pinwheels from Sweet and Savory Meals
    • Parmesan Onion Squares Appetizers (pictured below) THIS IS THE PLACE!!
    A closeup vertical photo of a hand holding a Parmesan onion squares appetizers with a bite taken out and a title text overlay graphic

    Below is the printable recipe card along with the nutritional information and exact measurements for making today’s easy appetizer of Parmesan Onion Squares. 

    An overhead photo of Parmesan Onion Appetizer Squares on a blue plate.

    Parmesan Onion Appetizer Squares

    Renee Goerger
    Parmesan Onion Appetizer Squares are always a hit with their light oniony flavor, crispy yet creamy texture, and a tiny and unexpected touch of sweetness that everyone loves!
    4.04 from 77 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save recipe Saved Recipe!
    Prep Time 5 mins
    Cook Time 20 mins
    Total Time 25 mins
    Course cheesy appetizer
    Cuisine Party food
    Servings 30
    Calories 96 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 1½ cups mayonnaise
    • 1½ cup Parmesan cheese grated or shredded
    • 3 tablespoons grated onion
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • pinch black pepper
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1 teaspoon dried basil
    • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
    • 30 party cocktail bread

    Instructions
     

    • Preheat the oven to 400-degrees.
    • Mix the first 8 ingredients together in a medium-sized bowl.
    • Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of the Parmesan mixture evenly onto the cocktail bread and place on a baking sheet.
    • Bake in a preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the Parmesan Onion Appetizer Squares are golden in color.
    • Remove and serve hot, warm, or at room temperature.

    Notes

    Tools and equipment:
    knife or offset spatula, baking sheet, parchment paper (optional), wooden spoon, 
    box grater, measuring spoons, measuring cups, medium bowl

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1gramsCalories: 96kcalProtein: 1gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 190mg
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    I sincerely hope you've enjoyed this super easy and tasty appetizer recipe for Parmesan Onion Squares as much as I've enjoyed bringing it to you!

    A plate full of Parmesan onion appetizer squares with a blue striped napkin.

    This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission.

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. When I find a great product or service I like to share it with my readers. For additional information please view my privacy policy.

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Samantha Dawn says

      July 17, 2020 at 10:29 am

      5 stars
      So easy and flavourful! We can't wait for our next party to pull these out again.

      Reply
    2. wilhelmina says

      July 17, 2020 at 10:18 am

      5 stars
      Delicious!! I love these for snacking, but they are o good I can easily make a meal of them!

      Reply
    3. Ricky Shoemake says

      August 26, 2019 at 8:31 am

      Hi, I was wondering if I could use Vidalia Onions? They are my favorite to use for recipes.

      Reply
      • Renée says

        August 26, 2019 at 9:06 am

        Sure! I often use Vidalia onions. But when I do, I cut back on the sugar just a pinch. However, that's your call. If you like things a little sweeter add all the sugar.
        Enjoy the recipe. I know you'll love these!
        Renee

        Reply
    4. Ashley F says

      August 25, 2019 at 12:19 pm

      5 stars
      I love these type of appetizers! So easy and flavorful! Definitely a plus that I can make them ahead of time!

      Reply
      • Renée says

        August 25, 2019 at 12:56 pm

        Glad you like the recipe, Ashley! Enjoy!!

        Reply
    5. Aggie says

      August 25, 2019 at 11:19 am

      5 stars
      These are my favorite types of appetizers - I love those cocktail breads! Such a crowd pleaser!

      Reply
      • Renée says

        August 25, 2019 at 11:30 am

        You are a girl after my own heart, Aggie! Glad you like them too!
        Renee

        Reply
    6. Kathy says

      January 11, 2019 at 8:33 am

      Silly question but I don’t know what constitutes “cocktail bread”?

      Reply
      • Renée says

        January 11, 2019 at 8:43 am

        Not silly at all because, sadly, cocktail bread is not widely recognized. It's a small loaf of bread (I find mine in the deli section of the grocery store) and the slices are like 2" x 2". Ask in the deli section and they'll be able to help you. I also left the Amazon link for a visual (or to purchase) if needed.
        However, you can substitute thin baguette slices or probably even crackers if needed.

        Reply
    7. Stef says

      January 02, 2019 at 2:12 pm

      5 stars
      I can almost smell how good this is just looking at your photos! I can't wait to try this recipe! Thanks!

      Reply
      • Renée says

        January 02, 2019 at 3:01 pm

        My pleasure. I know you're going enjoy these!

        Reply
    8. Andie Thueson says

      January 02, 2019 at 1:40 pm

      5 stars
      These look so tasty! The perfect game day fare!

      Reply
      • Renée says

        January 02, 2019 at 3:01 pm

        They really are! Actually, they're perfect for so many occasions. Enjoy!

        Reply
    9. Nancy @ gottagetbaked says

      December 19, 2012 at 6:20 am

      Renee, I totally agree - I found it odd to post something happy and lighthearted in the wake of such tragedy, but we can't dwell on sadness. We have to move on and be grateful for the family and friends that we have in our lives. As for this appie - oh baby, that looks good! You can't go wrong with onion, mayos and cheese baked on top of carbs 😉 Happy holidays!

      Reply
    10. Paula says

      December 18, 2012 at 11:17 pm

      This is such a great looking appetizer. Oniony, cheesy and served on sourdough cocktail bread...what more could you ask for?

      Lovely heartfelt post Renee.

      Reply
    11. Megan Wood says

      December 17, 2012 at 3:50 pm

      YUMMY! This looks delicious.

      Reply
    12. Conni thefoodiearmywife Smith says

      December 17, 2012 at 9:34 pm

      Mmmm! I love oniony appetizers, and I think this looks fantastic!

      Reply
    13. Laura Hunter says

      December 17, 2012 at 7:17 am

      It is so hard but so important to get back to a sense of normalcy after such a horrific tragedy. And I have to say you have shared a serious winner in my book with this appetizer. I love the flavours.

      Reply
    14. Katie says

      December 17, 2012 at 12:11 am

      What a yummy flavor combo! Thanks for sharing this recipe 🙂

      Reply
    15. Erin @ Dinners, Dishes, and Desserts says

      December 17, 2012 at 4:29 am

      What a quick and easy recipe that everyone would love!

      Reply
    16. Paula @ Vintage Kitchen says

      December 16, 2012 at 10:17 pm

      I LOVE these! I used to make a similar appetizer years ago; thanks for reminding me about them.

      Reply
    17. Cindys Recipes says

      December 17, 2012 at 3:28 am

      Quick and easy classic flavors! A winner!

      Reply
    18. german in pdx says

      December 17, 2012 at 1:50 am

      Such a great appetizer. Yum! ~ Bea @ galactopdx

      Reply
    19. Tara says

      December 16, 2012 at 11:03 pm

      They look so golden and delicious!!

      Reply
    20. Flour On My Face says

      December 16, 2012 at 9:20 pm

      These look so good. I love little cocktail sandwiches.

      Reply
    21. Renee Dobbs says

      December 16, 2012 at 6:49 pm

      That tray has my name on it...I'm sure you can see it if you look hard enough. And no, I'm not sharing.

      Reply
    22. Jen @JuanitasCocina says

      December 16, 2012 at 4:11 pm

      YUM! These look and sound fabulous! I love those little cocktail breads!

      Reply
    23. Dorothy at ShockinglyDelicious says

      December 16, 2012 at 3:52 pm

      A classic...love this! Have you ever tried it with some dill in there?

      Reply
      • Judy says

        November 23, 2019 at 9:48 am

        Can these be re-heated?

        Reply
        • Judy says

          November 28, 2019 at 6:05 pm

          Made these as appetizers for Thanksgiving feast today! More than 40 of them vanished in no time! Will definitely be a tradition from here on out! Thank you!!!

          Reply

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    Hi, I'm Renee! I've been a passionate home cook for over 40 years. I specialize in easy-to-make comfort food dishes from appetizers to desserts and everything in between.

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