Baked Sweet Onion Cream
This decadent baked onion casserole, rooted in Southern tradition, showcases tender sweet onions enveloped in a rich, velvety blend of cheeses and sour cream. A crispy topping of buttery cracker crumbs provides the perfect contrast in texture, making this dish a standout accompaniment for festive meals or comforting Sunday suppers. A harmonious balance of savory and subtle sweetness elevates this timeless side dish to memorable status.
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Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 cup tangy sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter melted (for the topping)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter for sautéing
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar optional, for enhanced sweetness
- 1 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar divided
- ½ cup finely shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup crushed buttery round crackers e.g., Ritz
- 2 large eggs whisked until smooth
- 4 large sweet onions such as Vidalia, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, black pepper, and sugar if using. Cook, stirring regularly, until the onions become soft and develop a light golden hue, about 15 minutes.
- Take the skillet off the heat. Blend in the sour cream and beaten eggs, stirring until the mixture becomes uniform and creamy.
- Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and all of the mozzarella, folding gently until evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the prepared onion mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the surface with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed crackers with the melted butter. Distribute this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Allow the casserole to rest for approximately 5 minutes before serving. Ideal alongside roasted poultry, smoked meats, or festive entrees.