SWEET ONION CASSEROLE

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Onions:
   Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sweet onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure they cook evenly. Once the onions are caramelized, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Casserole Base:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and eggs until fully combined. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and well incorporated into the cream mixture.
3. Combine Onions and Cream Mixture:
   Add the caramelized onions to the cream and cheese mixture, stirring gently to combine. Make sure the onions are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Prepare the Topping:
   In a small bowl, melt the remaining butter (about 2 tablespoons). Add the breadcrumbs to the melted butter and toss until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray. Pour the onion and cream mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs on top, covering the casserole with a golden, crunchy layer.
6. Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
7. Serve:
   Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of color and flavor, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Sweet Onion Casserole:

• Choosing the Right Onions: The type of onion you use can make a big difference in flavor. Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla are ideal because they add a gentle sweetness when caramelized. Avoid using regular yellow or red onions, as they tend to be sharper in flavor.
• Texture Variations: If you prefer a slightly smoother texture, you can pulse the caramelized onions in a food processor before adding them to the cream mixture. For more texture, leave the onions sliced.
• Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar and Parmesan work beautifully, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese for added depth of flavor.
• Breadcrumb Substitution: If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Serving Suggestions:

Sweet onion casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. It complements roasted meats like chicken or turkey, hearty cuts of beef, or even a juicy pork roast. It’s also perfect as part of a Thanksgiving or holiday dinner spread. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a crisp salad or roasted vegetables.

This dish can easily be customized to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a rich, cheesy comfort food or a lighter, vegetable-based casserole, sweet onion casserole offers both flexibility and flavor in one satisfying dish.

With its smooth, creamy base and irresistible crunchy topping, Sweet Onion Casserole is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this dish will be a hit at your table. Happy cooking!