Onion-Cheese Casserole
A savory casserole combining tender onions, crispy cracker crumbs, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread 1 cup of crushed butter-flavored cracker crumbs in a greased 8 x 11-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook until tender.
- Spoon the cooked onions over the cracker crumbs in the baking dish.
- In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter and stir in the flour, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add milk, cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheese until melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the onions in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cracker crumbs on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, try adding some sautéed garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the onion mixture. If you don't have pasteurized process cheese, cheddar or a blend of cheeses can work well as substitutes. For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat milk and whole wheat crackers. Be sure to adjust the baking time if you make changes to the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This Onion-Cheese Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside grilled meats or a savory dish like Frankfurter Spaghetti Casserole. It also makes a fantastic side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method will keep the top crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Onion-Cheese Casserole contains roughly 1186 calories, with 19g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 936mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
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 use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute pasteurized process cheese with cheddar, gouda, or a blend of your favorites. Just ensure the cheese melts well for a creamy sauce. Mixing different cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can enhance it further by adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just sauté them with the onions for added texture and flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, remove the foil and allow extra baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
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).