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Tennessee Onions Recipe

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Tennessee onions are a simple yet irresistibly delicious Southern side dish featuring sweet onions baked in a creamy, cheesy mixture until perfectly golden and bubbly. With just a few ingredients, this easy recipe transforms humble onions into a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make – Just slice, layer, and bake!
  • Rich & Cheesy – Melted cheese and butter create a creamy, savory flavor.
  • Perfect Side Dish – Pairs well with grilled meats, BBQ, or holiday meals.
  • Great for Entertaining – Simple ingredients, but a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

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

  • Sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla)
  • Butter, melted
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
  • Crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Slice the Onions – Cut onions into thick rings and separate them.
  3. Layer the Onions – Arrange onion rings in the prepared baking dish.
  4. Season – Drizzle with melted butter and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  5. Add Cheese – Cover the onions with shredded cheese, layering if needed.
  6. Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, add crushed crackers if using, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  7. Serve & Enjoy – Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Creamy Tennessee Onions – Mix in sour cream or cream cheese before baking.
  • Meaty Addition – Add cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor.
  • Different Cheese Options – Try Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a unique taste.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat – Warm in the oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.
  • Freeze – Not recommended, as onions may become watery.

FAQs

Can I use regular onions instead of sweet onions?

Yes, but sweet onions like Vidalia provide the best flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with Tennessee onions?

They pair well with steak, BBQ ribs, grilled chicken, or roasted potatoes.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly shredded cheese melts better, but pre-shredded works in a pinch.

How do I keep the onions from getting too soft?

Bake covered for most of the time, then finish uncovered for a golden top.

Can I use a different topping instead of crackers?

Yes! Panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or crumbled bacon add great texture.

Are Tennessee onions gluten-free?

Yes, if you skip the cracker topping or use gluten-free alternatives.

What size baking dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch dish works well, but any oven-safe dish will do.

Can I add mushrooms or bell peppers?

Absolutely! They add extra texture and flavor.

Can I cook this on the grill?

Yes! Wrap in foil and cook over indirect heat for about 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Tennessee onions are a rich, cheesy, and flavorful dish that turns simple ingredients into something amazing. Whether served as a side at a BBQ or as a comforting weeknight meal, this easy Southern favorite is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Tennessee!

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Tennessee Onions Recipe

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This Tennessee Onions dish is a rich, cheesy, and buttery baked onion casserole that melts in your mouth! It’s the perfect comforting side dish for BBQs, holiday meals, or weeknight dinners.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla), sliced into ¼-inch rings
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)

 

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:

    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Layer the Onions:

    • Arrange sliced onions in an even layer in the baking dish.

  3. Season & Add Butter:

    • Sprinkle onions with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
    • Drizzle melted butter over the top.

  4. Add Cheese & Bake:

    • Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the onions.
    • Top with dried thyme for extra flavor.
    • Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
    • Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

  5. Serve & Enjoy:

    • Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm as a side dish with steak, grilled chicken, or BBQ ribs!

Notes

  • Want it extra cheesy? Add more mozzarella or a sprinkle of feta.
  • Make it smoky! Add ½ cup cooked crumbled bacon before baking.
  • Storage: Leftovers keep in the fridge for 3 days—reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

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