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

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.

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.

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.

Stuff the Onions:

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

Add the Topping:

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

Bake:

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

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!