Greek Stuffed Onions

Name: Greek Stuffed Onions
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 4 medium Yellow Onions oval-shaped for easier stuffing; 1 lb Ground Beef or substitute with lentils or mushrooms; 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped; 1 cup Short Grain or Arborio Rice soaked beforehand; 2 cloves Garlic Cloves minced; 1 cup Grated Tomato for added moisture; 2 tbsp Tomato Paste in filling and sauce; 2 tbsp Lemon Juice freshly squeezed; 1/4 cup Fresh Chopped Mint for added freshness; 1 tsp Salt to taste; 1 tsp Black Pepper to taste; 2 tbsp Chicken Stock Paste or vegetable stock for vegetarian option; 1 tsp Dried Oregano for Mediterranean flavor; 1 can Canned Roma or Whole Tomatoes as base for sauce; 1 cup Water to achieve desired consistency

Author: Lora

Published: January 24, 2026

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Introduction to Greek Stuffed Onions

Let me take you on a delightful journey with my Greek Stuffed Onions. Picture this: a busy day, and you crave something comforting yet impressive. These tender onions, lovingly stuffed with flavorful beef, rice, and fresh herbs, are just what you need. Not only do they taste divine, but they also make your kitchen smell like a cozy Mediterranean escape. Perfect for a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, they’re the quick solution to elevate your culinary game without breaking a sweat. Trust me, you’ll want to add these to your recipe rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Greek Stuffed Onions

You’ll absolutely adore Greek Stuffed Onions for their incredible flavor and simple preparation. These beauties come together quickly, making them perfect for busy moms like me. Plus, they’re versatile and inviting, appealing to even the pickiest of eaters. With the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen, dinner becomes a delightful experience. In less than two hours, dinner is on the table, and your loved ones will be raving about this unique dish!

Ingredients for Greek Stuffed Onions

Gather the following ingredients to create these mouthwatering Greek Stuffed Onions. Keep in mind, exact measurements can be found at the bottom of the article for easy printing!

Yellow Onions: Choose medium-sized, oval-shaped onions for easier stuffing. Their sweetness enhances the dish.
Ground Beef: The classic choice for a hearty filling. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, lentils or chopped mushrooms work beautifully!
Fresh Parsley: A must-have for that vibrant flavor boost. It adds color and fresh notes to the filling.
Short Grain or Arborio Rice: Soaked beforehand for a creamier consistency, this helps bind the filling together.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a savory aroma that complements the meat perfectly.
Grated Tomato: This adds moisture and richness to the filling, enhancing every bite.
Tomato Paste: Used in both the filling and sauce, it deepens the flavor profile beautifully.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for a zesty kick, balancing the richness of the meat.
Fresh Chopped Mint: Mint brings a refreshing twist that truly captures Mediterranean vibes.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors. Adjust to taste.
Chicken or Vegetable Stock Paste: This provides a flavorful base for the filling and sauce. Opt for vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
Dried Oregano: The aromatic herb that’s a staple in Mediterranean cooking—adds a warm, earthy flavor.
Canned Tomatoes: Choose Roma or whole tomatoes to create a luscious base for the sauce.
Water: Use to achieve the desired consistency for the sauce.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a dish that not only tastes amazing but also fills your home with wonderful aromas. Enjoy the love and care that go into every stuffed onion!

How to Make Greek Stuffed Onions

Prepare Onions

Start by trimming the tops and bottoms of the medium yellow onions. This keeps them stable and neat. Next, simmer them in salted water for about 10 to 15 minutes. You want them tender enough to separate the layers without breaking. Once cooked, let them cool for a few minutes. I often multitask during this step, prepping other ingredients while the onions cool.

Prepare Tomato Sauce

For the sauce, blend together the canned tomatoes, water, tomato paste, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in your blender. Aim for a smooth consistency that isn’t too thick. This delectable sauce will keep the stuffed onions moist and enhance their flavors as they bake. I love adding a splash of extra lemon juice to brighten up the sauce, giving it a zesty kick!

Make Filling

Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant. This usually takes about 2 minutes. Now, introduce the ground beef (or lentils for a vegetarian twist) and brown it until fully cooked. Stir in the grated tomato, tomato paste, soaked rice, lemon juice, fresh parsley, mint, and all the spices. Let this mixture simmer for around 8 to 10 minutes. Oh, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking what’s cooking!

Stuff the Onions

Gently separate the layers of the cooked onions. This can be a little tricky, but take your time! Fill each onion with about two tablespoons of the flavorful rice mixture. Roll them snugly to keep the filling intact. If you have leftover filling, don’t throw it away! You can spread it in the baking dish for an extra layer of flavor.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a baking dish, pour a thin layer of the tomato sauce to prevent sticking. Place your stuffed onions upright in the dish, then generously pour the remaining sauce over them. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 25 to 30 minutes until the onions are golden and fork-tender. This cooking method infuses flavors beautifully!

Serve

Once done, take them out and let them cool for a minute. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. These Greek Stuffed Onions are divine when served warm! You could serve them alongside crusty bread for dipping, perfect for soaking up that rich sauce. Trust me, they’ll disappear before your eyes!

Tips for Success

Choose onions that are similar in size for even cooking.
Don’t rush the simmering process; it softens onions perfectly.
Feel free to add more herbs or spices to the filling for extra flavor.
Use leftover filling to create a tasty sauce base.
Let the stuffed onions rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Equipment Needed

Sharp Knife: For trimming and slicing onions. A sturdy paring knife works well.
Cutting Board: Essential for prep work. Any clean, flat surface will do!
Medium Pot: For boiling onions. A deep skillet can work too.
Baking Dish: Choose a medium-sized dish to hold all your stuffed onions.
Blender: Needed for the smooth tomato sauce. A food processor can be a great substitute.

Variations

Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the ground beef for cooked lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a wholesome vegetarian version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for those who love a little heat!
Grain Alternatives: Try quinoa or farro instead of rice for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition in your Greek Stuffed Onions.
Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese into the filling for a tangy twist that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Cultural Fusion: Mix in some southwestern spices or black beans for a fun spin on the classic Greek flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Greek Stuffed Onions with a light Greek salad, drizzled with olive oil and lemon.
Serve alongside warm pita bread for a delightful dipping experience.
For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the meal perfectly.
Garnish with extra fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.

FAQs about Greek Stuffed Onions

Can I make Greek Stuffed Onions ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed onions and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil. This allows the flavors to mingle beautifully!

What can I serve with Greek Stuffed Onions?
These stuffed onions are wonderful with a light Greek salad or crusty bread on the side. Both options balance the rich flavors and add a refreshing touch to your meal.

Can I freeze Greek Stuffed Onions?
Yes! These delicious stuffed onions freeze well. Just bake them, let them cool, and then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re great for up to three days! Just reheat them gently in the oven or microwave.

What if I can’t find short grain rice?
No worries! You can use any rice variety you have on hand. Basmati or jasmine rice will work just fine, though soaking may be less necessary. Your Greek Stuffed Onions will still be scrumptious!

Final Thoughts

Making Greek Stuffed Onions truly brings a warmth and joy to my kitchen that’s hard to replicate. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors that feels like a comforting hug. This recipe is perfect for busy nights, family gatherings, or even impressing friends at dinner parties. It’s a delightful fusion of tradition and comfort, making it a standout meal that everyone adores. Plus, cooking these stuffed onions fills your home with unforgettable aromas, transporting you straight to a sunny Mediterranean retreat. Trust me, once you try them, your taste buds will be celebrating, and your heart will be full!