Cheesy Stuffed Onion Casserole

A rich, savory, and indulgent dish featuring tender onions stuffed with a creamy, cheesy filling—perfect for a comforting side or a hearty vegetarian main course.

Ingredients

FOR THE ONIONS:

• 4 large sweet onions (like Vidalia or Walla Walla)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth

FOR THE FILLING:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

FOR THE TOPPING:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Peel the onions and cut off the tops and bottoms so they sit flat.
• Use a melon baller or spoon to carefully hollow out the centers, leaving about ½-inch thick shells. Chop the scooped-out onion and set aside.

1. Sauté the Onion Filling:

• In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
• Add broth and simmer for another 3 minutes, then remove from heat.

1. Make the Cheese Filling:

• In a bowl, mix cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, sour cream, bacon (if using), chives, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and the sautéed onions. Season with salt & pepper.

1. Stuff the Onions:

• Place the hollowed onions in a baking dish. Spoon the cheese mixture into each onion, packing it in tightly.

1. Add the Topping:

• Mix panko, melted butter, Parmesan, and thyme. Sprinkle over the stuffed onions.

1. Bake:

• Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake another 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

1. Serve:

• Garnish with extra chives and serve warm.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling.
• If onions are unstable, slice a tiny bit off the bottom to help them sit flat.

Enjoy this decadent, cheesy stuffed onion casserole as a show-stopping side dish or a satisfying main course!