German Onion Pie {Zwiebelkuchen}

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This German Onion Pie is comforting, simple, and deeply flavorful. The slow-cooked onions give it natural sweetness, while the creamy filling makes it hearty and satisfying. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish with a salad, or as part of a festive spread. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare and a great way to bring a taste of German tradition to your table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pie crust
• 2 pounds onions, sliced or chopped
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 eggs
• Paprika
• Salt
• Caraway seeds (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
3. In a skillet, cook the onions over medium heat until softened and lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream. Season with salt and paprika.
5. Stir in the cooked onions, and add caraway seeds if using.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared crust.
7. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.
8. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. Preparation time takes around 20 minutes, and baking time is about 45 minutes, for a total of just over 1 hour.

Variations

• Use puff pastry instead of a standard pie crust for a lighter texture.
• Substitute crème fraîche for sour cream for a richer filling.
• Try a mix of yellow and red onions for added color and depth.
• Sprinkle with grated Swiss or Gruyère cheese before baking for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. The pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What is Zwiebelkuchen?

Zwiebelkuchen is a traditional German onion pie made with onions, eggs, and sour cream baked in a crust.

Can I make this recipe without a crust?

Yes, you can bake the filling in a greased dish for a crustless version, similar to a quiche.

Do I need to caramelize the onions fully?

No, the onions only need to be softened and lightly golden, not deeply caramelized.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be substituted, but it will result in a slightly tangier flavor.

Is this dish traditionally served warm or cold?

Zwiebelkuchen is typically served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance, refrigerate it, and reheat before serving.

What pairs well with German Onion Pie?

It pairs wonderfully with a green salad, potato salad, or a glass of white wine .

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Blind-bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling to keep it crisp.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free pie crust for a gluten-free version.

What kind of onions work best?

Yellow onions are traditional, but you can use a mix of sweet and yellow onions for balance.

Conclusion

German Onion Pie is a comforting and flavorful dish that captures the essence of German home cooking. With its rich filling, tender onions, and flaky crust, it’s perfect for family meals or festive gatherings. Simple to prepare and endlessly versatile, Zwiebelkuchen is a timeless recipe worth adding to your collection.

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