Onion Rice Casserole
A comforting onion rice casserole featuring sweet Vidalia onions, creamy half and half, and melted cheese, perfect for cozy family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the chopped Vidalia onions in margarine until translucent.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, sautéed onions, and half and half.
- Mix in cheese until well blended.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using butter in place of margarine. If you want to add some protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken or sausage. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for added complexity. If you have leftover vegetables, such as mushrooms from Brussels Sprouts And Mushrooms, they can be added in for additional texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken. Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also works wonderfully as a vegetarian main course, especially when served alongside a light vegetable dish. For a delightful dessert, consider serving with Cherry Vanilla Freeze to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Onion Rice Casserole contains roughly 986 calories, with 60g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (144% of the Daily Value), protein (120% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 707mg per serving (31% 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 a different type of onion?
Yes, while Vidalia onions provide a sweet flavor, you can substitute with other sweet onions like Walla Walla or Maui onions. If you prefer a sharper taste, yellow onions will also work, but they may alter the overall sweetness of the dish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain wheat products. Just ensure that any cheese or additional ingredients you use are certified gluten-free. You can also swap the half and half for a gluten-free cream alternative if needed.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).