Vidalia Onion Casserole
A rich and savory Southern classic featuring golden caramelized sweet onions enveloped in a creamy cheese blend, crowned with a buttery cracker crust. Perfectly indulgent and ideal for any comforting side dish rotation.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 pounds sweet onions thinly sliced
- ½ stick butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 ounces grated cheddar cheese approximately 1 cup
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- Black pepper to taste
- 15 Ritz crackers or similar, crushed
Instructions
- Set a large nonstick skillet over low heat and introduce the butter, sliced onions, salt, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Allow the mixture to cook gently for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally. Ensure the onions remain just below browning, releasing their moisture and gradually turning tender and translucent with a light golden hue.
- Once the onions have fully softened and reduced, remove them from the heat and transfer them into a large mixing bowl. Prepare a 3 to 4-quart baking dish by coating it lightly with cooking spray.
- In the mixing bowl, combine the caramelized onions with mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese. Mix until thoroughly blended, then taste and season with additional salt or pepper as needed.
- Evenly distribute the onion mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crushed crackers uniformly over the top to create a crisp topping.
- Place the dish in an oven preheated to 375°F and bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
Notes
Cheese Options: Use any Parmesan variety; freshly grated cheddar from a block enhances the creamy texture.
Dairy Quality: Full-fat sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheese are preferred for optimal flavor and consistency.
Dish Size: An 8x8-inch baking dish is ideal, though any medium-sized oven-safe dish will suffice.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate covered for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, bake uncovered until thoroughly heated and bubbly, adding extra bake time if chilled.
Dairy Quality: Full-fat sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheese are preferred for optimal flavor and consistency.
Dish Size: An 8x8-inch baking dish is ideal, though any medium-sized oven-safe dish will suffice.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate covered for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, bake uncovered until thoroughly heated and bubbly, adding extra bake time if chilled.