Onions Celeste
Onions Celeste is a comforting baked onion dish topped with cheese and crispy bread, featuring creamy flavors perfect for hearty family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the onions and sauté them in a large skillet with butter; sprinkle with pepper.
- When the onions are soft, transfer them to a 9 x 12-inch casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated Swiss or Cheddar cheese over the onions.
- Mix the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth.
- Pour the soup mixture over the onions and cheese.
- Lay triangles of stale bread with crust trimmed off on top.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider caramelizing the onions longer before adding them to the casserole. If you're short on time, you can use pre-sliced onions or frozen onion sauté mixes. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the cream of chicken soup and milk. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a comforting side to grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Great For All Ages Soup for a hearty meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. A light salad on the side can balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Onions Celeste contains roughly 405 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cream sauce. Alternatively, a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth can also work well as a substitute for cream of chicken soup.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions to ensure they are tender before assembling the casserole.
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).