Tennessee Onions – Discover the flavors of the South with our Tennessee Onions, a recipe that turns Vidalia onions into a deliciously cheesy treat that melts, in your mouth. Seasoned to perfection and baked until golden this dish is guaranteed to steal the show at your dining table.
The first time I cooked up Tennessee Onions it was on an evening when we wanted something extra special. As the onions were baking, their sweet aroma mixed with the spices. Filled our home with warmth. My husband, who appreciates hearty flavors took one bite. Instantly reminisced about his grandmother’s cooking. My child? They were captivated by the tender strands of cheese that stretched out with each forkful. It was a simple dish. It had this incredible ability to bring us together—laughing and sharing stories—and quickly became a family favorite.
What makes these Tennessee Onions truly special?
Tennessee Onions pays homage to comfort by celebrating the sweetness of Vidalia onions and enhancing them with a perfectly balanced medley of spices and three cheeses that melt into an irresistible golden delight. This recipe stands out not for its simplicity in preparation but because it never fails to please a crowd making it an incredibly versatile addition, to any meal. Whether you’re grilling up a storm hosting a dinner or just enjoying a laid-back weeknight meal the decadent flavors and mouthwatering cheesy crust make this dish an absolute must-have. The way it turns veggies into a work of art is truly impressive. Showcases the incredible power of good old-fashioned home cooking. That’s why Tennessee Onions have become such a cherished favorite, on every dining table.
What You Need To Make This Tennessee Onions Recipe?
Vidalia Onions: Renowned for their sweetness these Georgia treasures develop a flavor profile when baked creating a foundation of taste that is both nuanced and comforting.
Butter: Like a liquid treasure it envelops the onions in richness ensuring they reach the level of tenderness. Each onion ring becomes infused with the essence of butter.
Seasonings: A sprinkle of salt awakens the flavors of the onions while garlic powder adds a savory depth and oregano brings a touch of herbal warmth. Together these seasonings create a sophisticated harmony of flavors.
Italian Blend Cheese: This combination of mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, Romano, Fontina, and Asiago melts, into layers that are stretchy and stringy. Each cheese contributes its character to create a creamy and dreamy topping.
Cheddar Cheese: With its tangy personality cheddar brings boldness that beautifully contrasts with the onions. It adds complexity. Creates a gorgeous melt.
Parmesan Cheese: A final touch of this nutty powerhouse not only creates a crusty golden top but also adds an aged depth that perfectly complements the delicate nature of the onions underneath.
Steps To Make Tennessee Onions:
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Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F, prepping your baking dish with a loving spritz of non-stick spray. Take your Vidalia onions, slice them into ¼ inch rings, and lay them out like a blanket in the dish. Season them gently with salt, whispering garlic powder, and a hint of oregano. Dot the butter over the onions, like little promises of richness to come. Shower them with a cascade of Italian blend and cheddar cheese, and then let the parmesan rain down for a final touch of sharpness.
Step 2: Bake these darlings for 35-40 minutes, until the dish sings with a golden brown top and the edges bubble with anticipation. Serve them up hot, watch the cheese stretch like Southern hospitality, and listen to the satisfying sighs around the table.
Tip:
For that perfectly melted cheese that’s essential to the Tennessee Onions, the key is in the layering and the type of cheese used. Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded; store-bought often contains anti-caking agents that can affect reliability. Begin with the Italian blend as your base to create a gooey foundation, followed by the cheddar for a punch of flavor, and finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan on top for a crispy, golden crust. Bake until the cheese is not just melted, but also bubbly and beginning to brown at the edges, creating a tantalizing contrast in textures from creamy to crispy that’s sure to delight all who gather around your table.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of onion?
Certainly, while Vidalias are preferred for their sweetness, any sweet onion variety will capture the spirit of this dish.
How can I prevent the dish from being too oily?
The key is in the quality of the cheese—opt for higher-quality cheeses that melt well without releasing too much oil.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A quick stint in the oven at 350°F until warm and bubbly will bring back that freshly baked taste and texture.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Tennessee Onions
Ingredients
- 3-4 Vidalia onions sliced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1 c Italian blend cheese shredded
- 1 c cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ c parmesan cheese shredded
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously coat an 8x13 inch baking dish, with nonstick cooking spray.
- Slice the onions into rounds about ¼ inch thick separating them into rings. Arrange these rings in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt, garlic powder and oregano over the onions. Then distribute pieces of butter across the surface.
- Cover the onions with a combination of blend and cheddar cheese and finish by sprinkling some parmesan cheese on top.
- Place the dish in the oven. Bake for approximately 35 to 40 minutes or until the cheese becomes bubbly and develops a golden brown hue.
- Once finished serve these onions straight, from the oven as a side dish.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
One Response
I have to tell you the Tennessee Onions were fabulous. Besides loving the recipe your description of them and the cooking directions were a breath of fresh air. (despite being oniony). I have never read such delightful instructions.You are adorable and I look forward to making more of your recipes!