This casserole is the perfect example of how humble ingredients can create culinary magic. Layers of tender, sweet Vidalia onions, melted butter, and a generous blanket of cheese come together to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.
Vidalia onions, exclusively grown in Georgia’s unique 20-county region, owe their sweetness to the distinct soil and climate of the area. By cooking these onions low and slow, their natural sweetness intensifies, balancing perfectly with the savory richness of the melted cheese and spiced butter sauce.
Whether you enjoy this casserole as a standout main dish or an irresistible side, it will elevate any meal. With its blend of creamy textures and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple yet elegant: Uses easy-to-find ingredients for a restaurant-quality dish.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a topping for proteins, rice, or even burgers.
- Customizable: Endless opportunities for flavor variations with herbs, spices, and cheese swaps.
Ingredients Overview
This casserole shines with its star ingredient, Vidalia onions, celebrated for their natural sweetness. The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Havarti adds richness, while smoked paprika, garlic powder, and mustard powder bring depth of flavor. Butter ties everything together, creating a luxurious sauce at the bottom of the pan.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and onions
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the onions into 1/4-inch rings and separate them into rings. Toss them gently in a large bowl with kosher salt, mustard powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
Step 2: Layer the onions in the baking dish
Spread the seasoned onion rings evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 3: Add butter and cheese layers
Distribute the butter pieces evenly over the onions. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups each of shredded Havarti and sharp cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Step 4: Bake the onions
Bake for 40 minutes or until the onions are soft and the edges of the dish are bubbling.
Step 5: Finish with a cheesy topping
Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining Havarti and cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, or until the top is golden. For a more browned top, broil on high for the last 5 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and black pepper before serving, if desired.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Slice the onions evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Use Vidalia onions for authentic sweetness, but sweet onions are a good substitute.
- For a golden, crispy topping, don’t skip the broiling step.
Variations to Try
- Add smashed garlic cloves for extra depth.
- Experiment with spices like cumin or chili powder for a bold kick.
- Swap the cheeses for Monterey Jack, fontina, or Muenster for unique flavors.
- Layer the casserole with sprigs of rosemary or thyme for an herbaceous touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use regular onions instead of Vidalia onions?
Yes, sweet onions or yellow onions work well as substitutes.
Q2: What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with roasted chicken, steak, or serve atop rice, potatoes, or burgers.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. Bake just before serving.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q5: Can I freeze this casserole?
Freezing isn’t recommended due to the onions’ texture and the creamy cheese.
How to Store and Reheat
Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or bake the entire dish at 325°F until heated through.
Conclusion
This Tennessee Onion Casserole is proof that simple, high-quality ingredients can result in extraordinary flavors. Whether you serve it as a hearty main or a versatile side, it’s bound to impress your family and guests alike.
For more recipe inspiration, follow Ava Foodie on Pinterest and discover countless ways to bring joy to your table!
