Sweet Vidalia Onion & Potato Casserole

An Unforgettable Sweet Vidalia Onion & Potato Casserole

Around here, we love pretty much anything that gets cooked up in a casserole dish, and this Sweet Vidalia Onion & Potato Casserole is no exception. Imagine a dish that’s similar to classic scalloped potatoes or a potato gratin, but with the delightful addition of sweet Vidalia onions. It’s a twist you didn’t even know was missing until you try it. We all have our favorite creamy potato dish, but once you take a bite of this, you might never go back to your old recipe again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is as creamy and cheesy as it gets. The sweet and savory flavors meld together in a way that’s simply amazing. By cooking the onions over low heat, we preserve their sweetness without letting them become too heavy through caramelization. The thin-sliced potatoes provide the perfect bite, creating a delicious base for the onions. And let’s not forget the melted cheese and savory sauce that tie it all together into one outstanding creamy dish. We promise you’ll be reaching for seconds, and your family will too!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×12-inch casserole dish
• Large pan
• Medium saucepan
• Knife
• Foil

Ingredients

• 2 lbs waxy potatoes (like Yukon gold), peeled and sliced very thin, about 1/8 inch thick
• 3 sweet Vidalia onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup mild or medium cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 sprig rosemary
• 1 sprig thyme
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter, plus more for greasing dish
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and liberally grease a 9×12-inch casserole dish with butter.
2. In a large pan over medium-low heat, warm the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-8 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring the cream, garlic, rosemary, and thyme to a boil. Remove from heat as soon as it reaches a boil.
4. Arrange 1/3 of the potatoes in the prepared casserole dish, overlapping slightly. Season liberally with salt and pepper, then top with half of the onions and 1/4 cup of cheese.
5. Repeat the layering with another third of the potatoes, more salt and pepper, the rest of the onions, and another 1/4 cup of cheese.
6. Top with the last third of the potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
7. Strain the cream mixture to remove the herb sprigs and garlic, then pour the liquid over the potatoes.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife, about 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with the remaining cheese, and continue baking until golden and bubbly, about 15-20 more minutes.
9. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use waxy potatoes like Yukon gold to prevent them from falling apart during baking.
• Don’t rush the onions; cooking them slowly keeps their sweetness intact.
• Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it set and makes serving easier.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For a different flavor, try using Gruyère or Swiss cheese instead of cheddar.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream for a subtle, warming spice.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 | Fat: 28g | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 8g | Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

Can I use a different type of onion? While Vidalia onions are preferred for their sweetness, you can substitute with any sweet onion variety.

What can I serve with this casserole? This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or a fresh green salad for a lighter option.

Conclusion

We hope you’re as excited to try this Sweet Vidalia Onion & Potato Casserole as we are to share it with you. It’s a comforting, delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Once you’ve given it a go, we’d love to hear how it turned out. Feel free to share your experiences and any personal twists you added. Happy cooking!