Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Vidalia Onion and Rice Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 15 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Vidalia Onion and Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish featuring sweet Vidalia onions, tender white rice, and melted Swiss cheese. The onions are sautéed until soft, then combined with cooked rice, half-and-half, and cheese before baking to bubbly perfection. This casserole is perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian entree, with a rich, flavorful profile that improves when made ahead and reheated.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup white rice (cooked as directed with 1 tsp. salt)
  • 7 cups Vidalia onions, medium diced
  • 4 tablespoons butter or margarine
  • 1 1/2 cups half-and-half or 1 1/2 cups 2% low-fat milk
  • 1 1/2 cups Swiss cheese, grated (about 1/2 pound)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced Vidalia onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent, which will bring out their natural sweetness and reduce their volume.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed onions, half-and-half (or milk), and grated Swiss cheese. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all ingredients.
  3. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to allow for uniform cooking.
  4. Bake: Place the baking dish in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake uncovered for 50 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and slightly browned on top.
  5. Serve or Store: The casserole can be served immediately or made a day ahead. If prepared in advance, refrigerate and reheat before serving. This dish is known to develop richer flavors when allowed to rest overnight and is excellent as leftovers.

Notes

  • Cook the rice with 1 teaspoon of salt to season it properly before combining.
  • Using Vidalia onions provides a natural sweetness, but other sweet onions can be substituted if needed.
  • Butter or margarine can be used based on preference or dietary restrictions.
  • This casserole is vegetarian-friendly but contains dairy from the cheese and dairy milk.
  • For a lower-fat version, use 2% low-fat milk instead of half-and-half.
  • Allow casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking for better texture and flavor development.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American Southern

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/vidalia-onion-and-rice-casserole-recipe/