Make Tennessee Onions with Vidalia onions, butter, cheddar, Parmesan, Italian blend cheese, and spices—a cheesy Southern favorite!
You know how some dishes feel like they have a soul? That’s what Tennessee Onions are for me. I first made this recipe on a lazy Sunday when I just needed something comforting, but I wasn’t in the mood for anything complicated. Vidalia onions were sitting on my counter, practically begging to be turned into something special, and I figured, Why not?
As the dish baked, the smell took over the house—sweet onions, melty cheese, and butter all mingling into this irresistible aroma. My husband wandered into the kitchen, sniffed the air, and said, “Whatever that is, we’re making it a regular thing.” And my kid? They were completely mesmerized by the cheese pulls—like, stretch-across-the-room level cheese pulls. It wasn’t just food; it was a moment.
Now, Tennessee Onions have become our go-to for family dinners, potlucks, and even late-night snacks when we’re feeling indulgent. They’re not just onions—they’re a little slice of Southern comfort on a plate.
Why You’ll Love These Tennessee Onions
What makes these onions so special? Let’s dig in:
- A Sweet and Savory Love Story: Vidalia onions are the star here, bringing their natural sweetness to the mix. And if you can’t find Vidalias, don’t stress—Walla Walla or Maui onions are excellent stand-ins. They all caramelize beautifully, turning sweet and buttery in the oven.
- Cheese Heaven: This recipe uses three kinds of cheese—cheddar for a bold kick, Parmesan for that nutty richness, and an Italian blend for ultimate gooeyness. It’s like a cheese symphony, and every bite is the encore.
- Simple but Impressive: Even though it’s ridiculously easy to make, this dish looks and tastes like you spent hours on it. Perfect for impressing guests (or just treating yourself).
- Versatility at Its Best: Tennessee Onions fit in anywhere—from backyard BBQs to holiday feasts. They’re the kind of dish that works with almost anything, and everyone loves them.
Ingredient Notes
- Vidalia Onions: Renowned for their sweetness, these Georgia treasures develop a nuanced flavor profile when baked, creating a foundation of taste that is both comforting and sophisticated.
Butter: Like liquid gold, it envelops the onions in richness, ensuring they reach peak tenderness. Each onion ring becomes infused with buttery goodness. - Seasonings: A sprinkle of salt awakens the flavors of the onions, while garlic powder adds savory depth and oregano brings a touch of herbal warmth. Together, these seasonings create a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Italian Blend Cheese: This combination of mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, Romano, Fontina, and Asiago melts into stretchy, stringy layers. Each cheese contributes its unique character, creating a creamy and dreamy topping.
- Cheddar Cheese: With its tangy personality, cheddar adds boldness that beautifully contrasts with the onions. It enhances the dish with complexity and creates a gorgeous melt.
- Parmesan Cheese: A final touch of this nutty powerhouse not only creates a crusty golden top but also adds aged depth, perfectly complementing the delicate nature of the onions underneath.
How To Make Tennessee Onions
This recipe is super simple, but each step plays a role in creating that cheesy, melty perfection. Let’s break it down so you can follow along with ease.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your baking dish with a light spritz of non-stick spray. Slice your Vidalia onions into ¼-inch rings and arrange them evenly in the dish. Season gently with salt, garlic powder, and a hint of oregano. Dot the onions with butter for added richness, then layer the Italian blend and cheddar cheese over the top. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Step 2: Bake the dish for 35–40 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling at the edges. Serve hot, and enjoy the cheesy, melty goodness that’s sure to earn a round of applause.
Pro Tip: To achieve that perfectly melted cheese, grate your own instead of using pre-shredded varieties. Store-bought shreds often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the melt. Start with the Italian blend for a gooey base, add cheddar for flavor, and top it off with Parmesan for a crispy crust. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned for the ultimate contrast of creamy and crispy textures.
Storage Options
Got leftovers? First of all, congrats—because these tend to disappear fast. But if you do have some, here’s how to keep them delicious:
Want To Save This Recipe?
- In the Fridge: Store the onions in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to four days. When you’re ready to reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F. Avoid the microwave unless you’re okay with sacrificing some of that crispy cheese magic.
- In the Freezer: Yes, you can freeze them! Let the onions cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last about two months. When you’re craving them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat them in the oven. The texture might be slightly softer, but the flavor? Still top-notch.
Variations and Substitutions
Tennessee Onions are like a blank canvas—you can tweak them to suit your mood or what you’ve got in the fridge.
- Cheese Swaps: No Italian blend? No problem. Make your own with mozzarella, provolone, and Asiago. Feeling adventurous? Try topping them with vegan cashew parmesan for a plant-based twist. It’s surprisingly delicious!
- Onion Alternatives: If Vidalia onions aren’t available, Walla Walla or Maui onions are just as sweet and flavorful. You could even experiment with yellow onions for a slightly sharper taste.
- Spice Things Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor. One time, I threw in some jalapeños, and it was a total game-changer.
- Herb Boost: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the top before baking for an earthy, elegant touch. It’s like dressing your onions up for a fancy dinner party.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Double-check your cheese blend, as some brands include gluten. Most don’t, but better safe than sorry.
What to Serve or Pair with Tennessee Onions
These onions are a superstar side dish, but they shine even brighter with the right pairings:
- BBQ Night: Serve them alongside smoky pulled pork, tangy ribs, or grilled chicken. The sweetness of the onions balances the bold BBQ flavors perfectly.
- Fresh Salads: A crisp, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the cheese. Add some citrus or dried cranberries for an extra pop of flavor.
- Hearty Mains: Tennessee Onions are a match made in heaven for steak, roasted chicken, or even a juicy pork chop. They add a layer of decadence to any meal.
- Bread Lover’s Dream: Pair with a warm, crusty baguette or dinner rolls to scoop up all that buttery, cheesy goodness. Trust me, you’ll want every last drop.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are some alternative sweet onions I can use if Vidalia onions aren’t available?
Walla Walla, Maui, or even Texas sweet onions are all great options. They caramelize beautifully and bring that same natural sweetness to the dish.
How does the combination of cheeses enhance the flavor?
Each cheese adds its own magic. Cheddar brings boldness, Parmesan adds nutty depth, and the Italian blend ties everything together with its creamy, stretchy texture. Together, they create a flavor bomb that’s hard to beat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble everything in your baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s going straight from the fridge to the oven.
How do I prevent the dish from being too oily?
Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties, which often have anti-caking agents that can make the dish greasy. Also, use high-quality cheese—it really makes a difference.
Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheeses. Top it off with vegan cashew parmesan for a nutty, cheesy finish.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 350°F oven until the dish is warm and bubbly to revive that freshly baked texture and flavor.
What do you think? Ready to bake up some cheesy, oniony goodness? Let me know how it turns out—and don’t forget to grab a forkful while it’s still hot. You deserve it! 😊
<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
Nutrition
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!