Vidalia Onion Pie

Vidalia Onion Pie is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 460 calories per serving. Recipe by The Black Peppercorn on YouTube.

Prep: 18 min | Cook: 54 min | Total: 1 hr 32 min

Cost: $5.47 total, $0.91 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 large Vidalia Sweet Onions (peeled and sliced about 1/4 inch thick)
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (divided: 2 tbsp for caramelizing, 2 tbsp for crust)
  • 1 cup Ritz Crackers (crushed into fine crumbs)
  • 1/2 cup Whole Milk (room temperature)
  • 2 large Eggs (beaten until uniform)
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded, sharp preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon Hot Sauce (optional, to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Slice the Onions

    Trim the ends off the Vidalia onions, peel, and slice them into quarters of an inch thick.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Caramelize the Onions

    Melt 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium‑low heat. Add the sliced onions and stir frequently for about 12 minutes, until they are soft and almost translucent but not browned.

    Time: PT12M

  3. Crush the Crackers

    Pulse the Ritz crackers in a food processor for 30‑60 seconds until they become fine crumbs. Discard any large pieces.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Combine Crumbs with Butter

    Pour the remaining 2 tbsp melted butter over the cracker crumbs and stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Press the Crust

    Transfer the crumb mixture into a 9‑inch pie pan. Press it evenly across the bottom and up the sides using a spoon and then your hands.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Add the Onion Filling

    Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the prepared crust.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Prepare the Egg Custard

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and the egg whites are no longer visible.

    Time: PT2M

  8. Pour Custard Over Onions

    Pour the egg mixture over the onions, using a spoon or fork to gently move it around so it covers the entire surface evenly.

    Time: PT1M

  9. Add Cheese and Parsley

    Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the dried parsley if using.

    Time: PT1M

  10. Bake the Pie

    Place the pie in a pre‑heated oven at 350°F and bake for about 42 minutes, until the custard is set, the edges are golden, and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.

    Time: PT42M

    Temperature: 350°F

  11. Rest Before Serving

    Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
460
Protein
12g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
30g
Fiber
2g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains gluten

Allergens: Eggs, Milk, Wheat, Dairy

Last updated: April 6, 2026

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Vidalia Onion Pie

Recipe by The Black Peppercorn

A sweet, buttery onion pie that tastes like a quiche. Made with caramelized Vidalia (or any sweet) onions, a simple cracker crust, and a cheesy egg custard. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish at dinner.

EasyAmericanServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
36m
Prep
42m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 28m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.47
Total cost
$0.91
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Caramelizing the onions without burning them
  • Pressing the crust firmly and evenly up the sides
  • Baking until the custard is fully set and the cheese is browned

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot skillet and oven with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Do not leave the skillet unattended while caramelizing onions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Vidalia Onion Pie in Southern United States cuisine?

A

Vidalia Onion Pie originated in the American South where Vidalia onions are a seasonal staple. Home cooks traditionally used the sweet onions in simple, comforting dishes like this pie, often served at family breakfasts or as a side for holiday meals.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of onion pie in Southern cuisine?

A

In the South, variations include adding ham or bacon to the filling, using cornmeal crusts, or swapping cheddar for Monterey Jack. Some versions incorporate a touch of cream cheese for extra richness.

cultural
Q

How is Vidalia Onion Pie traditionally served in the Southern United States?

A

It is usually served warm, sliced into wedges, and accompanied by a simple green salad or fresh fruit. It can be a breakfast centerpiece or a side dish alongside fried chicken or barbecue.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Vidalia Onion Pie traditionally associated with in Southern culture?

A

The pie is popular at spring gatherings when Vidalia onions are in season, as well as at family brunches, church potlucks, and holiday breakfasts such as Thanksgiving morning.

cultural
Q

What other Southern dishes pair well with Vidalia Onion Pie?

A

Pair it with fried catfish, collard greens, or a buttery biscuit. A chilled glass of sweet tea or a light white wine like a Riesling complements the sweet onion flavor.

cultural
Q

What makes Vidalia Onion Pie special or unique in American Southern cuisine?

A

The pie highlights the natural sweetness of Vidalia onions without heavy spices, letting the caramelized flavor shine against a buttery cracker crust and a light cheesy custard, creating a comforting yet elegant dish.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Vidalia Onion Pie?

A

Common errors include over‑cooking the onions so they brown, under‑pressing the crust which leads to cracks, and baking at too high a temperature which can dry out the custard. Follow the low‑heat caramelization and press the crust firmly.

technical
Q

Why does this Vidalia Onion Pie recipe use a cracker crust instead of a traditional pastry crust?

A

A cracker crust is quicker, requires no rolling, and adds a salty crunch that balances the sweet onions. It also keeps the recipe accessible for home cooks without a pastry bag or rolling pin.

technical
Q

Can I make Vidalia Onion Pie ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Assemble the crust and caramelized onions up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, then add the egg mixture and bake when ready. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to three days or can be frozen for longer storage.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel The Black Peppercorn specialize in?

A

The Black Peppercorn focuses on approachable home‑cooking tutorials, especially comfort foods and classic American dishes, with clear step‑by‑step instructions and a friendly, down‑to‑earth presentation style.

channel

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