Southern Sweet Onion Casserole

This has become one of my favorite side dishes at Thanksgiving.  The amazing sweetness of the caramelized onions with the saltiness of the Parmesan cheese and buttery cracker topping just sets off a taste combination you are going to love.   You can double this recipe for larger gatherings, but remember, this takes some time to do.  Caramelizing the onions can take up to an hour, but you can do them in the slow cooker overnight to get a jump on things in the morning.  So give this easy to throw together recipe a try and let me know how you and your family/guests like it.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet onions
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• 6-8 strips of bacon cooked/crumbled
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 sleep Ritz® crackers, crushed

 

1. Caramelize the onions in a large cast iron skillet in the butter.  This should take about 1 hour on medium low.
2. Half way through add the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar and stir to combine.
3. Once onions are caramelized, add the crumbled bacon and garlic.  Combine well.
4. Now put half the onion mixture into a small baking dish and spread out in dish.
5. Add the sour cream in dollops to the top of the mixture
6. Add 1/4 cup parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup cheddar cheese over top equally.
7. Sprinkle the thyme evenly over top.
8. Spread out the remaining onions over the top.
9. Sprinkle remaining parmesan over top.
10. In a small bowl combine the crushed crackers and cheddar cheese and mix well.
11. Spread topping over casserole evenly.
12. Bake in a 350° oven for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and topping is golden brown.