Swiss Onion Pie
A savory Swiss Onion Pie featuring caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and melted Swiss cheese, perfect for brunch or light dinner, showcasing rich flavors and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp, then remove from pan and crumble.
- Add chopped onion to the bacon fat; cook until transparent and caramelized.
- Allow the onion to cool slightly.
- In a bowl, add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in salt and light cream.
- Pour the mixture into the unbaked pastry shell.
- Sprinkle grated Swiss cheese over the top.
- Dot with small pieces of butter.
- Bake in a moderate oven (350°F) for 30 minutes, or until the pie is firm and golden.
- Crumble the cooked bacon over the baked pie before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the onion while cooking. If you don't have Swiss cheese, Gruyère or even a sharp cheddar can work as a substitute. Ensure your pastry shell is cold before adding the filling to prevent a soggy bottom. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can speed up the preparation.
Serving Suggestions
This Swiss Onion Pie is best enjoyed warm, perhaps with a side salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a creamy soup. It could also complement dishes like Scottish Eggs Supreme for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swiss Onion Pie contains roughly 675 calories, with 36g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (87% of the Daily Value), protein (73% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1568mg per serving (68% 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 pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to cover it well. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use if I don't have a pastry shell?
If you're out of pastry shells, consider using phyllo dough or a pre-made pie crust. You can also make a crustless version by greasing a pie dish and pouring the filling directly into it, which will yield a delicious quiche-like dish.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Swiss Onion Pie, simply omit the bacon and sauté the onions in olive oil or butter. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and texture, enhancing the dish without compromising its essence.
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).