This comforting Southern-style dish transforms simple sweet onions into a rich, cheesy, oven-baked favorite. Slow-baked until tender and topped with a generous layer of melted cheese, Tennessee Onions are perfect as a side dish for family dinners, gatherings, or holiday meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of onions while adding savory depth from herbs, butter, and a blend of cheeses. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 1/2 pounds sweet onions (such as Vidalia), peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rings
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
1/2 cup vegetable broth
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange the onion rings in the baking dish, stacking them loosely and spreading them evenly across the bottom.
In a small bowl, mix the dried parsley, dry mustard, garlic powder, seasoned salt, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the onions.
Scatter the butter cubes over the seasoned onions. Pour the vegetable broth gently around the edges of the dish.
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 75 to 90 minutes, until the onions are very tender.
In a separate bowl, combine the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Remove the foil and sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the onions.
Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 90 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour and 50 minutes
Variations
Add a smoky touch by mixing in a pinch of smoked paprika.
Use Monterey Jack or Colby cheese in place of cheddar for a milder flavor.
Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the onions before baking for a herbal note.
Add thinly sliced bell peppers for extra color and sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
FAQs
What type of onions work best for this recipe?
Sweet onions are ideal because they become mild and tender when baked.
Can I use regular yellow onions?
Yes, but the flavor will be stronger and less sweet than with sweet onions.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it is completely vegetarian as written.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance and bake it just before serving.
Does this recipe freeze well?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the onions may change after thawing.
Can I reduce the cheese?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of cheese or use just one type if preferred.
How do I know when the onions are fully cooked?
They should be very soft and easily pierced with a fork.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili flakes.
What dishes pair well with Tennessee Onions?
They pair well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or rice-based meals.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger baking dish and allow a little extra baking time if needed.
Conclusion
Tennessee Onions are a simple yet indulgent dish that turns humble ingredients into something truly special. With tender onions, savory seasoning, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is sure to become a repeat favorite at your table.
Tennessee Onions are a Southern-inspired baked side dish made with sweet onions, savory seasoning, and a generous layer of melted cheese. Slow-baked until tender and bubbling, this comforting recipe is perfect for family dinners and holiday spreads.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:90 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 50 minutes
Yield:8 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Baked
Cuisine:Southern American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 1/2 pounds sweet onions (such as Vidalia), peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rings
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
1/2 cup vegetable broth
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange onion rings evenly in the dish, layering them loosely.
In a small bowl, mix parsley, mustard powder, garlic powder, seasoned salt, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Sprinkle evenly over onions.
Dot the onions with butter cubes and pour vegetable broth around the edges of the dish.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 75 to 90 minutes until onions are very tender.
In a bowl, combine mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses.
Remove foil, sprinkle cheese mixture evenly over onions, and bake uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.
Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
You can prep the dish ahead and refrigerate before baking.
For added spice, increase cayenne or sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
This dish is best fresh but can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
