There’s something magical about the first bite of this Sweet Onion Pie—rich, cheesy, golden, and surprisingly comforting. With its buttery cracker crust, melt-in-your-mouth onions, and a light custard filling, this Southern gem hits all the right notes. It’s cozy, flavorful, and versatile enough to serve for brunch, dinner, or even the holidays.
Whether it’s nestled next to roasted chicken or stealing the spotlight at your next potluck, this pie knows how to make an impression.
What Is Sweet Onion Pie?
Don’t let the name fool you—this isn’t dessert. This savory pie is all about the magic of slow-cooked sweet onions, a buttery crust made from crushed crackers, a hint of garlic, melty cheddar cheese, and a custard-style filling that ties it all together.
The result? A dish that’s rich but not too heavy, creamy yet structured, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll make once and then find excuses to make again.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this crowd-pleasing comfort food, gather:
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1½ cups buttery crackers, crushed (Ritz or similar)
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6 tablespoons butter, divided
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2 cups sweet onions, thinly sliced (Vidalia preferred)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
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¾ cup whole milk
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2 large eggs
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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Pinch of paprika
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
👩🍳 How to Make Sweet Onion Pie
1. Make the Crust
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
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In a mixing bowl, combine crushed crackers with 4 tablespoons melted butter.
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Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides.
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Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then set aside.
2. Sauté the Onions
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In a skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter.
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Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 10–12 minutes, until soft and lightly golden.
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Stir in garlic and cook for another minute. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Filling
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In a bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, salt, and chives.
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Add the sautéed onions and half of the shredded cheese. Stir to combine.
4. Bake the Pie
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Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust.
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Top with the remaining cheese and a pinch of paprika for color.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until set and lightly browned on top.
5. Garnish and Serve
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Let the pie cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
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Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.
🧾 FAQ: Your Onion Pie Questions Answered
What kind of onions should I use?
Stick to sweet onions like Vidalia, Walla Walla, or even Maui onions for the best flavor.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Bake it fully, let it cool, and refrigerate. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
Which crackers are best for the crust?
Go with buttery round crackers like Ritz. Their rich, salty flavor pairs perfectly with the onions and cheese.
Can I swap out the cheese?
Definitely! Try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a smoky cheddar for a fun twist.
Is this a side or main dish?
It works as either—serve it alongside a simple salad or pair it with grilled meats or roasted veggies.
🥄 Final Thoughts
This Sweet Onion Pie is one of those comforting, humble dishes that surprises you with just how much flavor it packs. It’s easy to make, beautiful to serve, and even better to eat. Whether it’s part of your brunch table or your Sunday dinner spread, it’s sure to win hearts and earn repeat requests.
Ready to bake? Grab those sweet onions and buttery crackers—you’ve got a showstopper in the making.