Few dishes match the warmth and satisfaction that a savory onion and rice casserole can bring to the table. This delectable combination of tender onions, fluffy rice, and a medley of flavorful ingredients creates a dish that's not only easy to prepare but also immensely satisfying to devour.

Easy Comfort Casserole for the Whole Family!

When it comes to preserving culinary traditions and celebrating comfort food, few cultures do it quite like the Pennsylvania Dutch. Rooted in the rich history of German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania during the 17th and 18th centuries, Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine is a delightful blend of hearty flavors and cherished traditions. One culinary gem that stands out in this culture is the casserole – a dish that not only warms the belly but also carries with it a sense of community and heritage.

Why you will love this dish:

Today, we're diving fork-first into the world of comfort food, and what better way to do that than by exploring the heartwarming realm of a savory onion and rice casserole? Picture this: layers of caramelized onions, fluffy rice, and melted cheese, all coming together in a symphony of flavors that's as cozy as your favorite blanket on a chilly evening. So, grab a seat and let's chat all things savory, cheesy, and utterly irresistible!

Rice: Choose your favorite rice variety, whether it's long-grain, or short-grain, to provide a hearty and comforting texture.

Cream and Butter: For an indulgent touch, a bit of cream and butter add richness and depth to the dish.

Onions: The star of the show, onions bring their sweet and savory flavors to the casserole, creating a wonderful base for the dish.

Cheese: A generous amount of grated cheese – Gruyère, cheddar, or Parmesan – adds creaminess and a delightful cheesy goodness to the casserole.

As the casserole bakes, your kitchen will be filled with the inviting aromas of caramelized onions. When you finally take that first bite, you'll experience a symphony of flavors – the sweetness of the onions, the creamy richness of the cheese, and the comforting embrace of the tender rice.

How to make this Pennsylvania Grange Onion and Rice Casserole

Preheat: Set your oven to 300° F.
Cook your rice: Add rice to boiling salted water and cook for 5 minutes. Drain rice and set aside.

Saute: Melt butter in a large cast iron skillet and stir in sliced onion; Coat onions in butter and allow to cook for a few minutes until slightly softened.

Stir: Stir in rice, salt and pepper. You can also add more seasoning. I added 1/2 TSP onion powder and 1/4 TSP of garlic powder.
Add to casserole dish: Put onion mixture in casserole dish, cover with aluminium foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Add milk and cheese: After baking the casserole, covered, for 45 minutes. Remove foil and add in milk and grated cheese. Return to oven and cook uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.

Serve: Remove casserole from oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes and serve. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.

This onion and rice casserole isn't just a dish; it's a journey into comfort, a hug for your palate, and a symphony of flavors that'll have you reaching for seconds. So, next time you're in the mood for a culinary adventure that speaks to your soul, give this casserole a try. It's the kind of comfort that you'll want to share with friends and family, sparking conversations and creating memories around the table.