Tennessee Onions

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Tennessee Onions are a simple, flavorful, and cheesy baked side dish featuring sweet onions, melted cheese, and a savory seasoning blend. This Southern classic is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight dinner!
Yield
Serves 6–8
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet onions (e.g., Vidalia or Walla Walla), peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rings
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for added creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Onions
- Separate the onion slices into individual rings and arrange them in the prepared baking dish in a single, overlapping layer.
Step 3: Season the Onions
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the onions.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and thyme (if using) evenly over the onions.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the seasoned onions.
- If desired, drizzle the heavy cream over the top for extra richness.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Kitchen Tips
- Use sweet onions for the best flavor, as they caramelize beautifully when baked.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or BBQ for a complete meal.
These Tennessee Onions are a cheesy, flavorful delight with tender, sweet onions baked to perfection. They’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!