Southern Sweet Onion Casserole
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a casserole — especially when it stars sweet Vidalia onions in a rich, creamy base topped with buttery cracker crumbs. Sweet Onion Casserole is one of those simple Southern dishes that feels like home in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, wonderfully indulgent, and pairs beautifully with almost any main dish. Better yet, it often steals the spotlight all on its own.
The Quintessential Southern Ingredient
Vidalia onions are prized for their natural sweetness, making them the perfect foundation for this casserole. Unlike typical onion recipes that rely on caramelizing, this dish uses a surprising technique — boiling. This method softens the onions and removes any sharpness, leaving behind a mellow, sweet flavor that blends perfectly into the creamy mixture.
A Perfect Blend of Textures
Cracker crumbs and sharp cheddar cheese do more than fill space — they create balance. The crackers absorb the flavorful liquid while adding occasional crunch, and the cheese contributes richness and tang. Together, they elevate humble onions into a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole.
That Buttery Crumb Topping
The finishing touch is a golden topping made from melted butter and crushed crackers. As it bakes, it forms a crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft onion filling underneath.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this casserole alongside grilled chicken, roast turkey, steak, or baked ham. It works just as well for weeknight dinners as it does for holidays and potlucks.
🧅 Southern Sweet Onion Casserole
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Ingredients
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3 large eggs
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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4 large Vidalia onions, halved and sliced ¼-inch thick
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1 (5 oz) can evaporated milk
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1½ cups grated cheddar cheese
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1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
For the Topping:
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3 tablespoons melted butter
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1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Place sliced onions in a saucepan and add enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8 minutes. Drain well and toss onions with 2 tablespoons butter.
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In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and evaporated milk.
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Add buttered onions, 1 cup cracker crumbs, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
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Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
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Combine melted butter and 1 cup crushed crackers for the topping. Sprinkle evenly over casserole.
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Bake for 45 minutes, or until set in the center and golden brown on top.