Onion Surprise Casserole
A savory casserole featuring tender onions, melted Swiss cheese, and crunchy saltines, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks with rich, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray Pam in a casserole dish.
- In a skillet, melt 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of margarine over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onions and cook until tender and translucent.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the 2 eggs until well blended.
- Add the grated Swiss cheese and crushed saltines to the eggs, mixing well.
- Stir in the cooked onions, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can substitute Gruyère cheese for Swiss if you prefer a stronger taste. If you want to add more depth, incorporate some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers with the onions. For a crispy topping, sprinkle some additional crushed saltines or breadcrumbs mixed with butter on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious served alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It also makes a great brunch dish, served with fresh fruit or alongside other favorites like Ginger Krinkles for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until warm, but the oven method will help retain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Onion Surprise Casserole contains roughly 694 calories, with 28g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (67% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 791mg per serving (34% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, and you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites. Each will give the casserole a unique flavor profile, so feel free to get creative based on your taste preferences.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Onion Surprise Casserole is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for those following vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that any additional ingredients you choose to add, like cheese or crackers, are also vegetarian-friendly.
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).