French Onion Casserole

Here’s a rich, cheesy, and deeply flavorful French Onion Casserole — inspired by the classic soup, but baked into a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish perfect as a main or side.

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🧅 French Onion Casserole

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings: 6

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📝 Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or Worcestershire sauce)
• 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (or French fried onions for topping)
• Optional: ½ teaspoon thyme or Italian seasoning

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Caramelize the onions:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook slowly, stirring frequently, until onions are golden and caramelized (about 25 minutes).
2. Add flavor:
   Stir in garlic and balsamic vinegar. Cook 1–2 minutes. Add broth and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Mix the base:
   In a large bowl, combine the onion mixture with sour cream, half the cheeses, and seasonings if using.
4. Assemble:
   Pour the mixture into a greased 9×9-inch casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese, then crushed crackers or French fried onions.
5. Bake:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Serve warm — as a side with grilled meat, or as a cozy main with crusty bread and salad.

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🌿 What Herbs Go with French Onion Beef Casserole?

These herbs complement the deep, savory flavor of caramelized onions and beef beautifully:

• Thyme (classic pairing — earthy and subtle)
• Rosemary (use sparingly — bold and aromatic)
• Bay leaf (great for simmering with beef before assembling)
• Parsley (fresh garnish for brightness)
• Oregano (adds a slightly peppery note)
• Optional: a pinch of herbes de Provence for a French twist

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🔥 Can I Reheat French Onion Beef Casserole?

Yes, and it reheats very well!

Oven:

• Preheat to 350°F (175°C)
• Cover casserole with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes until heated through
• Remove foil last 5 minutes to crisp the topping

Microwave (individual servings):

• Cover with a damp paper towel
• Heat in 60-second intervals until hot
• Crisp the topping separately in a toaster oven if desired

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🍽️ Baking Tips for French Onion Casserole

• Low and slow caramelizing: Don’t rush the onions — golden brown, not burned.
• Layer flavors: Deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar, wine, or Worcestershire for depth.
• Don’t overbake: Bake just until bubbly and cheese is melted to avoid drying out the beef.
• Cheese blend: Combine melty cheeses (like mozzarella or Swiss) with a sharp one (like Gruyère or cheddar) for flavor and texture.
• Crunch factor: Add crushed Ritz, French fried onions, or even croutons for a crispy top.

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