Savory French Onion Casserole Recipe
This Savory French Onion Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that layers caramelized onions in a rich broth-based sauce with crispy croutons and melted cheese topping. Perfect for a cozy dinner or side, it combines sweet onions, savory beef broth, and a cheesy crust for an irresistible twist on classic French onion flavors.
- Author: Clara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Sautéing, Broiling
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Casserole
- 3 tablespoons butter (can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option)
- 3 cups yellow onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 dash pepper (adjust based on taste)
- 2 cups beef broth (substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup sherry (or more beef broth if unavailable)
- 2 cups salad croutons (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded (can use mozzarella as alternative)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (can use nutritional yeast for vegan option)
- Sauté Onions: In a large ovenproof skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are tender and golden brown, which should take about 10-12 minutes. This step develops the rich, sweet flavor essential to the casserole.
- Add Flour and Seasoning: Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and add a dash of pepper to taste. Mix well to coat the onions thoroughly, which will help thicken the sauce later.
- Incorporate Liquids: Gradually pour in 2 cups of beef broth and 1/2 cup of sherry. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cook until it thickens, about 2 minutes. This creates a savory base for the casserole.
- Prepare Croutons: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the remaining butter and toss in 2 cups of salad croutons until they are well-coated. This ensures the croutons will add a crispy and flavorful texture on top.
- Assemble and Top: Evenly distribute the butter-coated croutons over the onion mixture in the skillet. Then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Broil the Casserole: Place the skillet under a broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning, then remove and serve warm.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and use vegan cheese alternatives.
- Vegetarian option: replace beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the sherry or use extra broth if preferred.
- Make homemade croutons by toasting cubed bread with butter or olive oil and seasoning.
- Adjust the amount of pepper and seasoning based on your preference.
- Serve this casserole as a side dish with roasted meats or as a meatless main course paired with a fresh salad.
- Be careful while broiling the cheese as it melts quickly and can burn if unattended.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: French onion casserole, savory casserole, onion recipes, easy comfort food, cheesy casserole, vegetarian casserole