If you’re an onion lover or just looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish, Tennessee Onions are about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender, sweet onions baked under a creamy blanket of cheese, butter, and seasonings. Unlike onion rings, these don’t require any frying, and they bring out the onion’s natural sweetness in a deeply flavorful way that melts in your mouth. Whether for a family dinner or a BBQ side dish, this recipe will be a hit with everyone at the table.
Why This Recipe Works
Tennessee Onions work so well because they celebrate the natural flavor and sweetness of onions without masking it. Baking the onions mellows their bite, while the butter and cheese add a rich, savory layer that enhances each slice. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort yet delivers a complex, almost caramelized flavor. Plus, unlike fried onion rings, this baked dish is easier on the cleanup, making it a fantastic option for weeknight meals or as a side dish for larger gatherings.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2-3 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia or Walla Walla), sliced into 1/4-inch rings
- 4 tablespoons of butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
Equipment:
- Baking dish (a 9×13 inch dish works well)
- Knife and cutting board for slicing onions
- Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)
- Aluminum foil to cover while baking
How to Make Tennessee Onions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel the onions and slice them into 1/4-inch rings. Separate each ring, as this allows the butter and cheese to coat every layer evenly.
Step 2: Layer the Onions
Arrange the onion rings in an even layer in a greased baking dish. It’s okay if some of them overlap slightly; this helps them cook down evenly.
Step 3: Season and Butter the Onions
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the onions, making sure they are coated for that rich, buttery flavor. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the top to taste.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Distribute the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the onions. The mozzarella melts smoothly, while the Parmesan gives a sharpness that complements the onions.
Step 5: Bake the Onions
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the onions are tender.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
If you like, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for color and an extra layer of flavor. Serve the Tennessee Onions hot out of the oven and watch them disappear!
Tips + Tricks & More for Recipe Success
- Use Sweet Onions: Tennessee Onions are best with sweet onion varieties like Vidalia or Walla Walla, as these become caramelized and mellow during baking.
- Experiment with Cheese Varieties: While mozzarella and Parmesan are a great combo, feel free to mix in cheddar or Gruyere for a deeper flavor.
- Make It a Meal: Add slices of smoked sausage or ham to turn this into a hearty main dish, perfect for dinner.
- Adjust the Bake Time if Needed: Ovens vary, so check the onions for tenderness by piercing with a fork; they should be soft but still hold their shape.
- Consider Adding Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary pair beautifully with the flavors in this dish and can be sprinkled over the onions before baking for an aromatic twist.
How to Serve Tennessee Onions
Serve Tennessee Onions as a side dish with just about any main course—steaks, grilled chicken, and pork chops all complement the sweet and savory flavors of these baked onions. They’re also fantastic as a topping for burgers, hot dogs, or even brats, adding a cheesy and flavorful layer that’s a hit at any BBQ or cookout.
Serving Suggestions
- With BBQ Ribs: These onions pair wonderfully with smoky BBQ dishes, as the sweet onion flavor balances the tangy BBQ sauce.
- On Top of Mashed Potatoes: Spoon these cheesy onions over a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist on both dishes.
- In a Sandwich: Try adding a scoop to a crusty baguette or a ciabatta roll for a unique take on a vegetarian sandwich.
Time and Storage
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.