This Savory Caramelized Onion Casserole combines the sweet richness of caramelized onions with the creamy texture of a baked egg mixture, creating a delightful and comforting dish. Topped with crumbled feta and sliced tomatoes, this casserole is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors that meld wonderfully in every bite. It’s the perfect choice for a weekend brunch or a special weekday treat.
Elevate your next meal with this easy-to-make yet impressively delicious casserole. Ideal for those who love a rich, savory breakfast or brunch, it brings together simple ingredients in a sophisticated way. Serve this at your next family gathering or enjoy a quiet morning indulging in the warmth and complexity of flavors that this dish has to offer.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1 glass of flour (approximately 120 grams)
- 2 tablespoons chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup cheese (any type), grated
- Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until golden brown and caramelized.
- Season onions with salt, sugar, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
- In a bowl, beat eggs with pepper. Mix in cream until well combined. Gradually stir in flour to avoid lumps.
- Add caramelized onions and chives to the egg mixture. Mix thoroughly.
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly at the bottom.
- Pour the onion and egg mixture into the dish. Crumble feta cheese and arrange tomato slices on top. Sprinkle with grated cheese.
- Bake for about 35 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional chives if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4
Cooking Techniques and Tips
- Caramelizing Onions: The key to perfect caramelized onions is patience. Cook them slowly on medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure they brown evenly without burning. Adding a pinch of sugar helps expedite the caramelization process, enhancing their inherent sweetness.
- Layering Flavors: Each layer in this casserole serves a purpose. The breadcrumbs at the bottom not only absorb excess moisture but also prevent the dish from sticking to the pan, providing a subtle crunch. The eggs and cream create a custardy base, binding all the ingredients together into a cohesive dish.
- Cheese Choices: While the recipe calls for feta cheese for its crumbly texture and tangy taste, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Aged cheddar or a mild blue cheese could add a different flavor profile, catering to your taste preferences.
Seasonal Adaptations
This casserole is versatile and can be adapted to include seasonal ingredients. In the summer, add layers of zucchini or bell peppers for a fresh, vibrant twist. During the cooler months, incorporate mushrooms or even some spinach for an earthy flavor. This flexibility makes the casserole a year-round favorite.
Serving Suggestions
While this dish is substantial on its own, it pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread. For a brunch setting, serve alongside fresh fruit and mimosas or a light sparkling wine to balance the richness of the casserole. It’s a dish meant to be shared, perfect for a family meal or a festive gathering with friends.
Nutritional Information
Rich in proteins and essential fats from the eggs and cheese, this casserole is a satisfying meal that will keep you full for hours. Onions are high in vitamins C and B, and provide fiber and important minerals such as iron and potassium, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.
Why It’s a Must-Try
The Savory Caramelized Onion Casserole is a testament to how simple ingredients, when prepared with care and thought, can be transformed into something truly special. It’s a dish that celebrates flavor, texture, and the joy of eating. Whether you’re cooking for comfort or for celebration, this casserole is bound to impress.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best features of this casserole is its suitability for meal prep. It can be made in advance and refrigerated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Reheat individual portions in the oven or microwave for a quick, fulfilling meal during busy weekdays. This casserole freezes well, too. Simply portion it out and freeze for up to a month, ensuring a delicious, home-cooked meal is always on hand when time is short.
Culinary Variations and Experiments
- Add Meat: For those who prefer a meaty flavor, adding cooked bacon, ham, or sausage can elevate the dish to new heights. The smokiness of bacon or the spiciness of sausage complements the sweetness of the onions wonderfully.
- Vegan Adaptation: Vegan diners can enjoy this dish as well by substituting the eggs and cream with a silken tofu blend and using vegan cheeses and butter. This substitution maintains the creamy texture while keeping the dish plant-based.
- Spice It Up: To add a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the egg mixture or add a few dashes of hot sauce over the top before baking.
Historical and Cultural Context
This type of casserole dish has roots in rustic European cooking, where hearty, oven-baked meals are staples. It combines elements of French cuisine, known for its use of onions and cheese, with a casserole format that’s beloved in many cultures. This fusion makes it a versatile dish that appeals to a wide range of palates and preferences.