Baked Fontina With Caramelized Onions & Fig Jam

This Baked Fontina With Caramelized Onions & Fig Jam is a rich, gooey, and irresistible appetizer. The creamy fontina pairs beautifully with the sweetness of fig jam and savory caramelized onions, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for entertaining, dinner parties, or special occasions, this dish is easy to prepare yet impressively elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Gooey, melty fontina with sweet and savory toppings
• Quick and easy yet sophisticated appetizer
• Perfect for parties, holidays, or dinner gatherings
• Can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving
• Elegant presentation that always impresses

Ingredients

• 8 oz fontina cheese
• 1 cup caramelized onions (about 2 medium onions)
• 3 tablespoons fig jam
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 baguette or crackers, for serving
• Olive oil for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice fontina cheese into ½-inch thick slices.
3. Arrange cheese in a small baking dish or cast-iron skillet.
4. Spread caramelized onions evenly over the cheese.
5. Drizzle fig jam over the top and sprinkle with fresh thyme.
6. Bake 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted and slightly golden.
7. Drizzle lightly with olive oil before serving.
8. Serve warm with sliced baguette or crackers.

Tips & Variations

• Caramelize onions slowly over low heat for deeper flavor.
• Swap fig jam for apricot or cherry preserves for variation.
• Sprinkle crushed walnuts on top for extra crunch.
• Use a small cast-iron skillet for elegant individual servings.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover baked fontina in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until warmed through.
• Do not freeze baked cheese, best enjoyed fresh.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with sliced baguette, crackers, or toasted crostini.
• Garnish with fresh thyme or microgreens for presentation.
• Works beautifully as part of a cheese board or appetizer platter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cheese, onions, and jam in the dish and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I use other cheeses instead of fontina?

Gruyère, Havarti, or Brie are excellent alternatives with similar melt and flavor.

How do I make caramelized onions quickly?

Cook onions on medium-low heat with a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally. Patience yields the best flavor.

Can I make this for a large party?

Yes! Use a larger baking dish or multiple small skillets and bake accordingly.

Ready to Make It?

This Baked Fontina With Caramelized Onions & Fig Jam is a decadent, flavorful appetizer that’s simple to prepare yet impressively elegant. Perfect for entertaining or indulging, it will be the star of any appetizer table.

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