Creamy French Onion Casserole Recipe
If you have a deep-seated affection for the rich, savory flavor of onions, this Creamy French Onion Casserole is sure to win your heart. This dish is a delightful blend of sautéed onions, fresh mushrooms, and a medley of cheeses, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that brings everything together in a warm, comforting embrace. Perfect for a family dinner or as a side dish for a festive gathering, this casserole offers a unique twist on the classic French onion soup experience. However, to achieve the optimal flavors and textures, be sure to prepare this recipe ahead of time, allowing it to rest in the refrigerator for at least four hours before baking.
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 4 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Category: Onions
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 | onions |
| 4 tablespoons | butter |
| 1 ½ cups | fresh mushrooms |
| 2 cups | Swiss cheese |
| 1 cup | Parmesan cheese (optional) |
| 5 ounces | evaporated milk |
| 1 tablespoon | soy sauce |
| 1 cup | fresh parsley (optional) |
| 6 cups | cubed bread |
| ¼ teaspoon | salt |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 724.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 36.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 90.5 mg |
| Sodium | 1470.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 70.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.3 g |
| Sugars | 6.1 g |
| Protein | 28.6 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Onions: Begin by slicing the onions crosswise into thin slices. Then, cut each slice in half for a more manageable size in the casserole.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the sliced onions and fresh mushrooms to the pan. Cook the mixture until both the onions and mushrooms are tender, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
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Layer the Ingredients: Spoon the sautéed onion and mushroom mixture into a lightly greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of Swiss cheese over the top of the vegetables.
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Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the evaporated milk, soy sauce, and Parmesan cheese (if you are using it). Whisk these ingredients together until smooth, then pour the mixture over the cheese layer in the baking dish.
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Add the Bread: Take the cubed bread and sprinkle it over the casserole, ensuring an even distribution. Finally, top with the remaining 1 cup of Swiss cheese to create a luscious, cheesy topping.
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Garnish: If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top of the casserole for added color and flavor.
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Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the casserole to chill for a minimum of 4 hours, or up to 8 hours, to let the flavors meld together.
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Prepare for Baking: Before baking, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps to ensure even cooking.
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Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is ready, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake it for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, uncover the dish and continue to bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
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Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to stand for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy French Onion Casserole is not just a dish; it’s an experience, a warm hug of flavors that celebrates the humble onion in all its glory. The combination of textures—from the soft, tender onions and mushrooms to the crispy bread topping—creates a delightful contrast that will leave everyone coming back for more. Serve it as a stand-alone main dish or as a delightful side to accompany roasted meats or a fresh salad, and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite in your household. Enjoy every savory bite!
