Onion Celeste
A savory onion casserole layered with Parmesan cheese, rich cream of chicken soup, and toasted French bread, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sliced Bermuda onions in butter, covered, over low heat for 30 minutes until softened.
- Spoon the cooked onions into a baking dish.
- Spread grated Parmesan cheese over the onions and sprinkle with pepper.
- Heat the cream of chicken soup and milk together in a skillet, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the soup mixture over the onions and cheese.
- Gently stir to combine.
- Arrange slices of French bread in a ring on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes until the bread is toasted and the sauce is bubbly hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider caramelizing the onions for an extra 10-15 minutes before using them in the dish. If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, Gruyère or a sharp cheddar can be great substitutes. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread or omit the bread topping entirely. This dish can also be made vegetarian by replacing the cream of chicken soup with a vegetable alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Onion Celeste pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It can also be served alongside a protein like grilled chicken or roasted fish for a heartier dish. Consider serving it with a side of mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete experience, browse more American recipes to complement this flavorful casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power, checking every minute to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Onion Celeste contains roughly 974 calories, with 8g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), iron (35% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Onion Celeste ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking stage in advance. Simply cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will help it bake evenly.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option or make a homemade version using a roux with milk and seasonings. Blending in some sour cream or Greek yogurt can add creaminess and tang as well, depending on your preference.
Can I freeze Onion Celeste?
Yes, you can freeze this dish after it's baked. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until hot throughout, about 30-40 minutes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).