Southern Sweet Onion Casserole is a heartwarming side dish that brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightful crunch. Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish embodies Southern comfort food at its finest.
Growing up in the South, my grandmother always had a knack for turning humble ingredients into something magical. This casserole was her secret weapon—comforting, satisfying, and full of flavor. It was always the highlight of Sunday lunches, where seconds (and sometimes thirds) were inevitable. The buttery Ritz topping paired with tender onions and gooey cheese became a recipe we couldn’t resist. To this day, it’s a taste of nostalgia that brings back warm memories of laughter and togetherness.
Why You’ll Love this Southern Sweet Onion Casserole Recipe
- Cheesy Perfection: Loaded with melted cheddar that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the onions.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
- Versatile Side Dish: Whether paired with a holiday roast or a weeknight entrée, it fits any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at potlucks, holiday feasts, and family dinners.
Ingredient Notes
- Sweet Onions: The star of the dish, delivering a natural sweetness when cooked to tender perfection. Look for Vidalia or Walla Walla onions for the best results.
- Ritz Crackers: These add a buttery crunch to both the topping and the filling, creating a satisfying texture.
- Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to give a robust, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the onions.
- Evaporated Milk: This pantry staple provides a creamy texture without making the casserole overly heavy.
- Eggs: Act as a binder, holding the casserole together beautifully while adding richness.
How to Make Southern Sweet Onion Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Onions
Slice the onions and simmer them in boiling water for about 8 minutes until tender. Drain well and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter while they’re still hot, allowing the butter to melt and coat the onions.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Add the onions, evaporated milk, shredded cheese, crushed Ritz crackers, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the onion mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Add the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole to create a crispy topping.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the casserole for 45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave.
- Freezer: Freeze the casserole in individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Sprinkle cooked bacon bits into the mixture for a smoky flavor.
- Incorporate shredded carrots for added texture and natural sweetness.
- Use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version without sacrificing crunch.
What to Serve with Southern Sweet Onion Casserole
- Roast Chicken: Complements the creamy richness with tender, savory bites.
- Grilled Steak: Adds a hearty protein to balance the dish.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
- Cornbread: Enhances the Southern theme with its slightly sweet and crumbly texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use regular onions instead of sweet onions?
A1: Yes, but the flavor may be less sweet. Add a teaspoon of sugar to mimic the sweetness of Vidalia or Walla Walla onions.
Q2: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Assemble it the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking to maintain its crunch.
Q3: How do I reheat leftovers?
A3: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per serving.
Q4: Can I make this dairy-free?
A4: Yes, use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based milk alternative like almond or oat milk.
The Southern Sweet Onion Casserole emerges from the oven with a golden, buttery topping and a creamy, cheesy filling. Each bite is a harmonious blend of tender onions, melted cheese, and a satisfying crunch. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for bringing family and friends together.
Southern Sweet Onion Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Pot
Ingredients
- 1 C. Ritz crackers crushed
- 4 Sweet onions, sliced
- 1 ½ C. Shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp. Butter
- 1 tsp. Salt
- 3 Large eggs
- ¼ tsp. Pepper
- 5 oz. Can evaporated milk
- 3 Tbsp. Melted butter For topping
- 1 C. Ritz crackers crushed into crumbs For topping
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 375 degrees.
- Add the onions to a pot, and cover in water.
- Bring the water to a boil, and simmer the onions until softened, about 8 minutes.
- Drain the onions and stir in the butter while they are still hot.
- Beat the eggs in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the onions, milk, cheese, Ritz crackers, and salt and pepper to taste to the bowl with the eggs, and stir to combine well.
- Spread the mixture into a well-greased 9×13 baking dish.
- In a bowl, stir together the topping ingredients, and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 45 minutes, and allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.