Vidalia Chrysanthemums
Vidalia Chrysanthemums are visually stunning baked onions filled with sweet Vidalia flavors, melted cheese, and pimentos, perfect as a comforting appetizer or side dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Slice onions into 6 wedges each, but do not cut all the way through; keep them connected at the top and bottom.
- Place the prepared onions in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Melt the butter and pour it over the onions.
- Spread the cream of chicken soup over the onions.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese and chopped pimentos on top.
- Cover the dish and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, or until the onions are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of onions, such as sweet and red, to enhance the dish. If you don't have cream of chicken soup, a homemade version with chicken broth, heavy cream, and seasonings can work well. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a twist. If you want a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Vidalia Chrysanthemums alongside roasted meats, such as Pork Roast With Sweet Potatoes And Apples, or as a side to grilled chicken. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a light dessert like fruit salad or sorbet.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Vidalia Chrysanthemums can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You may also reheat in the microwave for quicker results, but the oven will help keep the onions tender.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vidalia Chrysanthemums contains roughly 437 calories, with 11g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1108mg per serving (48% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Vidalia Chrysanthemums a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover the dish, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the butter?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. This will still provide moisture and flavor to the onions while making it suitable for dairy-free diets.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. Just chop them into similar sizes as the onions to ensure even cooking and combine them with the other ingredients before baking.
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).