Name: Tennessee Onions
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large sweet onions (e.g., Vidalia), peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rings; 4 tablespoons butter, cut into small pats; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried mustard powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Hey there, my foodie friend! Get ready to savor the sweet, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth magic of Tennessee Onions! This Southern gem features thick slices of sweet onions baked in a buttery, garlicky sauce, topped with a golden, bubbly layer of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. It’s like a love letter to comfort food—perfect as a side dish for a barbecue, a holiday feast, or just because you’re craving something indulgent. Trust me, this recipe is a total game-changer, and you’ll be scooping up every last cheesy bite!

Why You’ll Love Tennessee Onions
This dish isn’t just a side—it’s a showstopper that brings Southern warmth to any table. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats or serving it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, here’s why it’s a must-make:

Versatile: Perfect as a side for steak, chicken, or BBQ, or even as a dip with crusty bread. It fits right into casual dinners or festive gatherings.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients like onions, butter, and cheese, making it an affordable way to wow your guests.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and mostly hands-off baking—just slice, season, and let the oven do the work.
Customizable: Swap cheeses, add a spicy kick, or toss in herbs to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: The sweet onions and gooey cheese are a hit with kids and adults, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients in Tennessee Onions

This dish is all about simple ingredients that create a rich, cheesy, caramelized masterpiece. Here’s what makes it so special:

Sweet Onions

Vidalias or other sweet varieties (like Walla Walla) are key, turning soft and jammy as they bake, with a natural sweetness that shines.

Butter

Melted butter coats the onions, adding richness and helping them caramelize to perfection.

Cheddar Cheese

Sharp cheddar, shredded fresh, brings a bold, tangy flavor that melts into gooey goodness.

Mozzarella Cheese

This adds a stretchy, melty texture that balances the cheddar’s sharpness.

Garlic Powder

A sprinkle of garlic powder infuses the dish with warm, savory depth.

Italian Seasoning

This blend of herbs (like oregano and thyme) adds an earthy, aromatic note.

Salt and Pepper

These essentials enhance the onions’ sweetness and balance the cheesy richness.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s create this cheesy, Southern delight:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish to prevent sticking.

Prep the Onions

Peel the sweet onions and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. Separate the rings slightly and arrange them evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Season the Onions

Drizzle melted butter over the onions, ensuring they’re well-coated. Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to distribute the seasonings.

Add the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the onions, covering them in a generous layer of cheesy goodness.

Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the onions are soft and caramelized, and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden in spots.

Finishing Touches

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or a pinch of extra Italian seasoning for a pop of color.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot as a side dish or scoop it up with crusty bread as a dip. Pair with your favorite main for a Southern-inspired feast!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 220 kcal

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Tennessee Onions

This dish is a star on its own, but here are some ways to make it even more irresistible:

Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp green salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance the rich, cheesy flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the buttery, cheesy sauce.
Creamy Accompaniments: A dollop of sour cream or a side of mashed potatoes complements the Southern vibes.
Vegetable Sides: Grilled zucchini or roasted green beans add color and a fresh contrast.
As a Standalone: Scoop it up as a dip with toasted baguette slices or crackers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Presentation matters! Serve in the baking dish for a rustic look, or transfer to a colorful casserole dish with a sprinkle of parsley for a festive touch.

Additional Tips

Here’s how to make Tennessee Onions even better:

Prep Ahead: Slice onions and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or toss in some diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Dietary Adjustments: Use plant-based butter and cheese for a vegan version, or swap mozzarella for Gouda or Monterey Jack for a flavor twist.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore the melty texture.
Cheese Tip: Shred cheese fresh from a block for better melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese can have additives that affect texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular onions instead of sweet onions?
A1: Yes, but sweet onions like Vidalia are best for their mild, sugary flavor. Regular yellow onions will be sharper and less sweet.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh, adding 5-10 minutes if starting cold.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to keep the cheese melty.

Q4: Can I freeze Tennessee Onions?
A4: Freezing isn’t ideal—the onions can get mushy, and the cheese may separate. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until bubbly. Microwaving works but may make the onions softer and less crisp.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish (like 10×15-inch) and double the ingredients. Baking time may increase slightly—check for bubbly cheese.

Q7: Can I use different cheeses?
A7: Yes! Try Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a twist. Stick to cheeses that melt well for the best texture.

Q8: Are these kid-friendly?
A8: Totally! The sweet onions and cheesy topping are a hit with kids. Skip the spicy add-ins for a milder version.

Q9: Can I add other vegetables?
A9: Sure! Sliced bell peppers or mushrooms can be layered with the onions, but keep them thin to cook evenly.

Q10: Why are my onions not soft enough?
A10: Ensure onions are sliced uniformly (¼-inch thick) and baked long enough. If still firm, cover with foil and bake for an extra 5-10 minutes.

Conclusion

Tennessee Onions are your new go-to for a simple, soul-warming dish that’s as easy to make as it is to love. With sweet, caramelized onions, a buttery garlic sauce, and a gooey cheese topping, every bite is pure Southern comfort. Whether you’re serving it alongside a juicy steak, scooping it up as a dip, or stealing a bite straight from the dish, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table. So preheat that oven, grab your ingredients, and get ready to savor a cheesy, oniony masterpiece!