Cheddar Ritz Vidalia Onion Pie

This savory Vidalia onion pie brings out the natural sweetness of onions with a cheesy filling and a buttery golden Ritz cracker crust. It is the ultimate comfort bake that works for both brunch and weeknight dinners and every bite is creamy warm and nostalgic.

I stumbled on this pie years ago at a Southern potluck and quickly realized it would become a dinner table regular at my house. The way the onion and cheddar meld together wins over everyone even the self-proclaimed onion skeptics.

Ingredients

• Vidalia onions: thinly sliced for a natural sweetness and gentle bite sweet onions are best but other yellow onions will work in a pinch
• Unsalted butter: lets you control the saltiness and creates gorgeous caramelization use a good quality butter if possible
• Salt: keeps the flavors balanced and enhances onion sweetness opt for fine sea salt for best distribution
• Black pepper: just enough heat to wake up the pie use freshly ground for the best flavor
• Garlic powder: gives a mellow depth and warmth ensure it is fresh for maximum punch
• Dried thyme: offers earthiness and herbaceous notes check your thyme is aromatic not stale
• Sharp cheddar cheese: brings creaminess and a cheesy tang pre-shredded is fine but block cheese freshly grated will melt better
• Sour cream: keeps the filling rich and tender full fat is ideal
• Large eggs: help the filling set with a custardy texture always use fresh for binding
• Crushed Ritz crackers: form a buttery crumb crust use classic round crackers and crush them for flaky results
• Grated Parmesan cheese: adds nuttiness and a golden crisp top freshly grated Parmesan gives the most flavor

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure an even bake. Make sure the rack is in the center position for best results.

Caramelize the Onions:

In a large skillet melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced Vidalia onions and sprinkle in the salt. Cook gently stirring occasionally for 15 to 20 minutes until onions turn golden brown and deeply soft. If the onions start to brown too quickly lower the heat to avoid burning and keep caramelizing until the sweetness intensifies.

Cool the Onions:

After the onions are deeply caramelized remove them from heat. Let them cool for about five minutes so they do not scramble the eggs in the next step.

Mix the Filling:

In a big mixing bowl combine the cooled onions black pepper garlic powder dried thyme shredded cheddar cheese sour cream and eggs. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and look creamy with flecks of herbs and cheese.

Prepare the Crust:

In a separate bowl mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the grated Parmesan cheese. Spray or butter a nine inch pie dish then scatter half of the cracker mixture evenly across the bottom and press gently to cover every spot.

Layer and Assemble:

Pour the cheesy onion filling over the cracker crust and spread it into an even layer with a spatula. Sprinkle the rest of the cracker Parmesan blend on top of the pie covering every inch for a crispy finish.

Bake and Cool:

Slide the pie into your preheated oven. Bake for thirty to thirty five minutes until the top turns golden brown and the filling is set with only a tiny jiggle in the center. Let the pie stand at room temperature for ten minutes before slicing for clean wedges and easy serving.

The Vidalia onions always stand out for their subtle sweetness and never fail to start conversation at my table. My favorite family moment is how excited everyone gets when that golden pie comes out of the oven and the kitchen fills with cheesy oniony aroma.

Storage Tips

Cool leftover pie to room temperature then refrigerate wrapped or in a container for up to four days. Slices can be reheated in a low oven or even enjoyed cold for a quick snack. The crust keeps its texture surprisingly well thanks to the cracker base.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Vidalia onions are not available look for any sweet onion variety or substitute with yellow onions for a stronger flavor. Monterey Jack can stand in for cheddar and full fat plain Greek yogurt can replace sour cream if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect as a vegetarian main paired with a fresh green salad or as a southern style brunch dish with fruit. It also makes an excellent holiday side next to ham baked chicken or roast turkey.

Cultural Context

Onion pie is a beloved tradition throughout the American South and Midwest. Vidalia onions have a cult status for their mild sweet flavor and the addition of Ritz crackers is a nod to classic southern potluck cooking where comfort and flavor reign.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use sweet summer Vidalia onions for maximum tenderness. Try scallions or leeks in spring for a milder green variation. Add in a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley when serving for a pop of freshness.

Success Stories

Friends who have tried this pie for the first time always mention how unexpectedly addicting it is and how it does not taste overwhelmingly of onion. One guest told me it reminded her of her grandmother’s kitchen even though she grew up far from the South.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Bake the pie as directed let it cool completely then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat uncovered at 300 degrees until warmed through for a make ahead meal.

This classic Vidalia onion pie is comfort food at its finest. Creamy savory and special for family and guests every time.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes Vidalia onions ideal for this pie?

Vidalia onions are prized for their natural sweetness and mild flavor, which caramelize beautifully and balance the savory cheese and crust.

→ Can I substitute another cheese for sharp cheddar?

Yes, swap sharp cheddar for Colby, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for different flavors and melt textures while maintaining a creamy base.

→ How do I achieve perfectly caramelized onions?

Cook onions slowly in butter over medium heat, stirring until soft and golden brown for deep, sweet flavor and rich texture.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead?

Absolutely, assemble and refrigerate the pie before baking, or bake and reheat gently for serving the next day.

→ Which sides pair best with this dish?

Pair with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or simple greens to balance the richness of the onion and cheese filling.

→ Can I use a different cracker for the crust?

Yes, buttery round crackers work best, but saltines or club crackers can also create a tasty, crunchy base.