Tennessee Onions Recipe

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Golden, melty, and oozing with buttery flavor—Tennessee Onions are the kind of side dish that effortlessly steals the spotlight. Each tender slice of sweet onion becomes caramelized and infused with layers of gooey cheese, butter, and seasoning, transforming an everyday vegetable into something downright irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or just looking to level up a weeknight dinner, this dish brings Southern comfort straight to your plate.

The aroma alone—rich, savory, and slightly sweet—will have everyone hovering around the oven. Tennessee Onions are a warm hug of flavor with just the right hint of spice and melty cheese. Perfect as a side dish for burgers, grilled meats, or even as a vegetarian main course, these baked onions are a simple yet stunning way to bring that cozy, home-cooked charm to your meal.

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Ingredients for this Tennessee Onions Recipe

• 3 to 4 large sweet onions (like Vidalia), sliced into thick rounds
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or use Colby Jack for more kick)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish – optional)

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Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel the sweet onions and slice them into thick rings, about ½ inch thick. Carefully separate the slices into full rings without breaking them.

Step 2: Arrange in the Baking Dish

In a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, lay the onion slices flat in a single layer. Try to fit them snugly, but avoid overlapping too much so each piece gets its share of cheesy goodness.

Step 3: Season Generously

Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper evenly over the onions. These spices bring out the natural sweetness of the onions and add a gentle heat and depth.

Step 4: Add the Butter

Drizzle the melted butter evenly across all the onions. Don’t skip any slices—this is where that rich, golden flavor starts to soak in.

Step 5: Pile on the Cheese

Mix the three cheeses together in a bowl. Generously sprinkle the cheese mixture over the onions, making sure each slice is covered. The triple cheese combo melts into every crevice for a gooey finish that’s simply addictive.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned, and the onions are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the onions rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or thyme if desired, and serve warm. They’re perfect alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a cheesy appetizer.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftover Tennessee Onions, allow them to cool to room temperature first. Transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to deepen, making them even more delicious the next day.

When ready to reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, though the oven method keeps that crisp, golden top.

Freezing isn’t recommended, as onions can become watery and lose their texture when thawed.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 360mg
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 10g

Please note: values may vary based on exact ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of onion works best for this recipe?

Sweet onions like Vidalia are ideal because of their natural sugars, which caramelize beautifully in the oven. Yellow onions can work too but will have a stronger bite.

Can I make Tennessee Onions ahead of time?

Yes! You can slice and season the onions, then cover and refrigerate the dish. Add the cheese and bake fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

It is! As long as your cheeses are made without animal rennet, this recipe is fully vegetarian.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Absolutely. Cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even ground beef can be added before the cheese layer for a heartier version.

What cheese combinations work well?

A blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Monterey Jack gives both stretch and flavor. Feel free to try Gruyère, pepper jack, or even a little Parmesan for extra depth.

Are Tennessee Onions spicy?

Not inherently. But you can make them spicy by adding red pepper flakes, cayenne, or using a spicy cheese like jalapeño jack.

How do I keep the onions from falling apart?

Cut them thick and keep the slices intact. If some smaller rings separate, just layer them gently—they’ll soften and bind with the cheese while baking.

Can I use a cast iron skillet instead of a baking dish?

Definitely. A cast iron skillet will give the onions extra crisp on the bottom and sides—just make sure it’s large enough to fit all the slices in one layer.

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