Tennessee Onions Recipe

Tennessee Onions , Better than Onion Rings! A cheesy, baked delight that melts in your mouth. If you’re a fan of rich, flavorful baked dishes, Tennessee Onions will become your new favorite side dish. These onions are perfectly caramelized, layered with cheese, and baked to perfection. It’s a dish that offers a whole new way to enjoy onions—more decadent and savory than classic onion rings.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 Vidalia sweet onions (These are the stars of the dish. Vidalia onions have a mild and sweet flavor, perfect for caramelizing and pairing with cheese.)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (For that rich, buttery flavor that helps soften the onions as they cook.)
• 1 tsp salt (To enhance the natural sweetness of the onions.)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (Adds a savory element that complements the sweetness of the onions.)
• 1/2 tsp oregano (For a touch of herby flavor.)
• 1 cup Italian blend cheese, finely shredded (Typically a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan—this gives the dish a gooey, cheesy layer.)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, finely shredded (For a sharp, cheesy kick.)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (Adds an extra layer of saltiness and umami flavor.)

 

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temperature to caramelize the onions slowly and allow the cheese to melt evenly into a golden, bubbling crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Onions

Peel and slice the Vidalia onions into thick rounds, approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Thicker slices will hold their shape better during baking. Place these onion slices into a 9×13 inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking.

Step 3: Butter and Season

Melt the unsalted butter and pour it over the onions. Make sure each onion slice is coated with butter to help soften and caramelize them as they bake. Sprinkle the onions with salt, garlic powder, and oregano to season them generously. These seasonings will infuse the onions with savory, herbaceous flavors as they cook.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Now for the cheesy goodness! Evenly sprinkle the Italian blend cheese, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese over the top of the onions. You want each onion slice to be smothered in this mixture so that it creates a melty, golden crust as it bakes. The combination of cheeses ensures a mix of creamy and sharp flavors.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let the onions bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook—you’re looking for the cheese to melt and turn golden brown. The onions should be soft and tender, but not mushy. Once the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned on top, your Tennessee Onions are ready to come out of the oven.

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Variation:

• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix before baking. This will give the dish a subtle kick that contrasts nicely with the sweet onions and cheesy topping.
• Meat Lover’s Twist: For added richness, you can sprinkle crumbled bacon over the onions before adding the cheese. This will give the dish a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the onions and cheese.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that your Italian cheese blend and seasonings are free from any additives containing gluten.

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Cooking Note:

• Choosing Onions: While Vidalia onions are the best choice for this recipe due to their sweetness, you can substitute them with any other sweet onions if you can’t find Vidalia. Yellow onions work well, but they might not be as sweet as Vidalia.
• Cheese Selection: If you don’t have an Italian blend cheese on hand, feel free to use mozzarella or provolone as substitutes. The key is to have a mix of cheeses that melt well and provide a balance of creamy and sharp flavors.
• Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the onions, as you want them tender but still holding their shape. Overbaking could cause the onions to become too soft and lose their texture.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect Side Dish: Tennessee Onions are an excellent side dish for grilled meats like steak or chicken, adding a rich, cheesy element to your meal.
• Pair with Potatoes: Serve alongside mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal.
• On a Sandwich: These onions also make a great topping for burgers or sandwiches. Simply pile them onto a grilled beef patty or a roast beef sandwich for added flavor and texture.
• As a Dip: Tennessee Onions can also double as a dip. Serve them with slices of crusty French bread or tortilla chips to scoop up all the cheesy goodness.

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Tips:

• Cheese Tip: Grating your own cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese will give the dish a creamier texture. Pre-shredded cheeses are often coated with anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Baking Tip: To ensure an evenly browned top, you can switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Watch closely so that the cheese doesn’t burn.
• Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

 

 

FAQs:

1. Can I make Tennessee Onions ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the dish a few hours before serving. Assemble the onions and cheese, cover the dish, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to bring the dish to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
2. Can I freeze Tennessee Onions?
   While you can freeze cooked onions, the texture of the cheese may change when reheated. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
3. What can I substitute for Vidalia onions?
   If you can’t find Vidalia onions, Walla Walla or Maui onions are great substitutes. In a pinch, yellow onions can be used, but they won’t have the same level of sweetness.
4. Can I make this dish vegan?
   To make a vegan version, use plant-based butter and cheese. There are plenty of dairy-free cheeses available that melt just as well as regular cheese.

Conclusion:

Tennessee Onions are a true comfort food—a delicious, cheesy side dish that transforms humble onions into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re looking for a side to serve with steak or a simple dish to wow guests at your next gathering, these baked onions deliver. With their crispy, golden cheese topping and tender, caramelized onions underneath, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Best of all, this recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to get creative with flavors and ingredients. So, try this recipe for your next dinner, and enjoy a dish that’s better than onion rings any day!

 

 

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