Vidalia Onion Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Vidalia Onion Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that highlights the sweet flavor of Vidalia onions. This simple casserole combines tender onions, creamy custard, and melted cheeses for a perfect side or vegetarian main.

Ingredients

• 4 large Vidalia onions, sliced (or 8 small)
• ½ cup butter (1 cube, plus 1-2 tablespoons for preparing the baking dish)
• 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
• 2 cups half and half
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup Swiss cheese
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté the sliced onions in the butter until softened, about 10 minutes.
3. Step 3: Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by rubbing 1-2 tablespoons of soft butter evenly over the bottom and sides. Sprinkle the bottom with the seasoned bread crumbs.
4. Step 4: Spread the sautéed onions evenly over the bread crumbs in the baking dish.
5. Step 5: In a bowl, whisk together the half and half, beaten eggs, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Pour this mixture over the onions.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the sharp cheddar and Swiss cheeses evenly over the top of the onion mixture.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the custard is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and cover with a towel. Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes before serving to allow it to set further.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh seasoned bread crumbs or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free ones.
• Add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier casserole.
• Swap half and half for heavy cream for a richer custard.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F until warmed through or microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of onions instead of Vidalia?

Yes, you can use sweet onions like Walla Walla or Maui as substitutes, but Vidalia onions are preferred for their distinctive sweetness.

Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.

Vidalia Onion Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 86 reviews

• Author: Hugo
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This Vidalia Onion Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish that highlights the natural sweetness of Vidalia onions. Sautéed until tender and layered with a custard of half and half, eggs, and cheeses, this comforting casserole is perfect as a side dish for any meal or a savory addition to brunch.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Onions

• 4 large Vidalia onions, sliced (or 8 small)

Dairy and Cheese

• ½ cup butter (1 cube, plus 1–2 Tbsp for preparing the baking dish)
• 2 cups half and half
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup Sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded

Others

• 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
2. Sauté Onions: In a large pan over medium heat, melt ½ cup butter. Add the sliced Vidalia onions and sauté for about 10 minutes until they become soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness.
3. Prepare Baking Dish: Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish using 1-2 tablespoons of soft butter, spreading it evenly, then sprinkle the bottom with seasoned bread crumbs to create a flavorful base and prevent sticking.
4. Layer Onions: Arrange the sautéed onions evenly over the bed of bread crumbs in the prepared baking dish.
5. Make Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the half and half, beaten eggs, kosher salt, and ground black pepper until fully combined and smooth.
6. Pour Mixture: Gently pour the custard mixture over the onions in the baking dish, allowing it to soak through evenly.
7. Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle both the Sharp Cheddar and Swiss cheeses over the top of the casserole to form a rich cheesy crust.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the custard is set and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
9. Rest Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and cover loosely with a towel. Let it rest for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to firm up for easier serving.

Notes

• Using Vidalia onions gives a natural sweetness that enhances the flavor of this casserole.
• You can substitute half and half with heavy cream for a richer dish or whole milk for a lighter option.
• Seasoned bread crumbs add extra flavor but plain breadcrumbs can be used with a pinch of additional seasoning.
• Allowing the casserole to rest helps it set and improves texture when slicing.
• This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a comforting vegetarian main when paired with a fresh green salad.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Vidalia onion casserole, baked onion casserole, cheesy onion bake, side dish, autumn recipe