Tennessee Onions
The mighty onion. It’s incorporated in nearly every savory dish that’s made in my kitchen and, if I’m honest, I almost always add more than the recipe calls for. Raw, sauteed, grilled, or baked, I cannot get enough of them. So when I came across this recipe where onions were finally the star of the show, I knew I had to give it a try. Allow me to introduce you to the fabulous Tennessee Onion Bake.
While I’m not sure exactly where the dish gets its name, I like to imagine that it’s a staple at summer BBQs and holiday get-togethers in the Volunteer State. What meal isn’t better with a healthy side of super cheesy onions?
Serve them on top of burgers or steak, beside pork chops, or add them to the Thanksgiving side dish lineup. There’s no wrong time for an easy dish as tasty as this one!
While this recipe only calls for a handful of ingredients and is about as simple as slicing and layering, it delivers a serious punch as far as flavor goes. You’ll start by slicing the sweet onions (we used Vidalia which I’d highly recommend if they’re in season!) into rings and spreading them out in a prepared baking dish. From there, it’s all about the cheese! In this recipe, we used a mix of Italian blend and cheddar, but there’s really no way to go wrong with your cheese choice here. Asiago, swiss, or even gouda could be fun ones to try out for a different flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a cheese lover’s dream come true. It’s simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is the perfect comfort food side dish that pairs well with almost anything. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any extra onions in your pantry!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven
- 9×13 baking dish
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Knife and cutting board
- Cheese grater (if grating cheese yourself)
Ingredients
- 3-4 sweet onions, we used Vidalia
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Turning the onion sideways, slice into ¼ inch rounds and separate the rings.
- Spread onion rings in baking dish and sprinkle with the salt, garlic powder, and oregano.
- Slice the butter into approximately 8 pats and place evenly across the dish.
- Sprinkle the Italian blend and cheddar cheese over the onions and then add the parmesan on the very top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cheese is starting to bubble and brown.
- Serve while still hot!
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure to slice the onions evenly so they cook at the same rate. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, so if you have the time, grate your own. Keep an eye on the onions as they bake to ensure the cheese doesn’t over-brown.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give the dish a little kick. For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream before baking.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving is packed with flavor and provides a good amount of calcium from the cheese. It’s a delightful indulgence that can complement a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving.
What can I serve with Tennessee Onions?
This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a topping for burgers.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a long-time onion lover or just looking for a new side dish to try, Tennessee Onions are sure to become a favorite in your home. I invite you to give this recipe a try and let me know what you think. Don’t forget to share your experience and any delicious variations you come up with!
