Southern Sweet Onion Casserole
Southern Sweet Onion Casserole is a delightful dish that embodies the essence of Southern comfort food. This casserole brings together the sweetness of Vidalia onions with the richness of cheese and the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers, making it a perfect side for any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish during family gatherings or enjoying it on a cozy weeknight, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that’s both simple and satisfying, Southern Sweet Onion Casserole is a winner. Not only does it feature readily available ingredients, but it also allows the natural sweetness of Vidalia onions to shine. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or can stand alone as a hearty vegetarian option. Plus, its creamy texture and crunchy topping create a delightful contrast that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Make Southern Sweet Onion Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 large Vidalia onions, sliced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, sauté the sliced Vidalia onions over medium heat until they are tender and translucent.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked onions with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the onion mixture to a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and paprika until evenly combined.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the onion mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Southern Sweet Onion Casserole
Southern Sweet Onion Casserole is best served warm, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Pair it with roasted chicken, grilled meats, or serve it alongside other classic Southern dishes like collard greens or cornbread. For a complete meal, toss together a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
How to Store Southern Sweet Onion Casserole
To store leftover casserole, allow it to cool completely and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Tips to Make Southern Sweet Onion Casserole
- Ensure your onions are sliced evenly to promote even cooking and consistent texture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed bell peppers.
- If you prefer a bite of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cracker topping or mix in some jalapeños to the onion mixture.
Variation
Feel free to customize this casserole by using different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier version. You also can substitute the Ritz crackers with panko breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for a unique twist on the topping.
FAQs
What kind of onions should I use for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using Vidalia onions for their natural sweetness. However, you can use other sweet onions like Walla Walla or Maui if Vidalia onions are unavailable.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in a preheated oven.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking it according to the instructions.
Southern Sweet Onion Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 large Vidalia onions, sliced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, sauté the sliced Vidalia onions over medium heat until they are tender and translucent.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked onions with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the onion mixture to a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and paprika until evenly combined.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the onion mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
