Tennessee Onions Recipe

If you have a soft spot for deeply flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth onion dishes, then you are absolutely going to adore Tennessee Onions. This soulful recipe transforms sweet Vidalia onions into a luscious, cheesy masterpiece bursting with warm spices and buttery goodness. Tennessee Onions serve up comforting layers of tender onion rings cloaked in a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a dish that feels like a big warm hug on a plate, perfect for when you want something simple yet show-stopping to share with friends or family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of making Tennessee Onions lies in how straightforward and approachable the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, enhancing texture, or adding that irresistible cheesy finish that elevates this humble vegetable into a stunning centerpiece.

• Cooking spray: Essential for greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
• 2 1/2 lb. sweet Vidalia onions (3 large or 4 medium), peeled: The star of the dish, offering natural sweetness and tenderness when baked slowly.
• 1 tsp. dried parsley: Adds a hint of herbaceous brightness that complements the rich cheese and spices.
• 1 tsp. dry mustard: Brings a subtle tangy kick that enhances the savory depth.
• 1 tsp. garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic undertone without overpowering the other flavors.
• 3/4 tsp. seasoned salt: A balanced seasoning blend that boosts the overall flavor profile.
• 1/2 tsp. dried oregano: Offers earthiness and complexity to the spice mix.
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt: Elevates the natural sweetness of the onions and balances the cheeses.
• 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle heat to brighten the dish and keep it lively.
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper: Provides a mild peppery bite to round out the spices.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Smooth, creamy cheese that melts beautifully over the onions.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar: Brings bold, tangy flavor to contrast the mild mozzarella.
• 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan: Adds a nutty, salty finish with a lovely golden crust when broiled.
• 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, cut into cubes: Melts into the onions, enriching every layer with silky richness.
• Chopped fresh parsley, for serving: A fresh, vibrant garnish that cuts through the richness and adds color.

How to Make Tennessee Onions

Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Dish

Start by positioning an oven rack in the center and preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to keep those delicious Tennessee Onions from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Slicing the Onions

Place a peeled sweet Vidalia onion on its side and slice it vertically into 1/4-inch-thick rounds. Separate each round into individual rings, then carefully restack the rings from largest to smallest in the baking dish, mimicking the onion’s original shape. Repeat this for all the onions to build a layered onion tower ready to soak up all the flavors.

Step 3: Mixing the Spices and Cheeses

In one small bowl, combine your dried parsley, dry mustard, garlic powder, seasoned salt, oregano, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and freshly ground black pepper—this blend will coat the onions with a beautifully balanced savory spice layer. In a separate medium bowl, toss together mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, which will be sprinkled on top for a luscious, melty finish.

Step 4: Seasoning and Adding Butter

Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the stacked onions, gently tossing to coat them well without breaking their delicate rings. Dot the onions with small cubes of unsalted butter, which will slowly melt during baking, infusing each layer with deep buttery flavor. Pour about 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish, then cover tightly with foil to steam the onions to tender perfection.

Step 5: Baking Until Tender

Bake the covered onions for 75 to 90 minutes until they’re soft enough to easily pierce with a fork. This slow bake time is key for breaking down the onions’ structure, releasing their natural sweetness, and creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture Tennessee Onions are known for.

Step 6: Adding Cheese and Broiling

Remove the foil and sprinkle the cheese mixture over the top of the tender onions. Return the dish to the oven to bake uncovered for 5 to 7 minutes, letting the cheeses melt and bubble deliciously. Finally, crank on the broiler and broil for 1 to 2 minutes—watch closely—to achieve golden brown spots on the cheese, adding a delightful crisp finish. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness before serving.

How to Serve Tennessee Onions

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley deliver a bright, peppery contrast that balances the richness of the cheese and butter in Tennessee Onions. You can also add a light drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of crispy pancetta to introduce some acidity and texture.

Side Dishes

Tennessee Onions pair beautifully with grilled meats, such as barbecue chicken or steak, enhancing the smoky flavors with their sweet and savory profile. They also work well alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the onions.

Creative Ways to Present Tennessee Onions

For a family-style feast, pile the Tennessee Onions in a shallow serving bowl to showcase their layers and bubbling cheese. Alternatively, serve individual portions layered in small gratin dishes to impress guests with a personalized touch. You could even spoon the onions over toasted crusty bread for a hearty appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Tennessee Onions into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making them a convenient and delicious next-day side or snack.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover Tennessee Onions by first cooling completely, then wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months to retain flavor and texture as best as possible.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a 325°F oven, covered with foil, for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. To revive that bubbly cheese topping, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of reheating. Avoid microwaving when possible to keep the texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use onions other than Vidalia for Tennessee Onions?

Yes, while Vidalia onions are preferred for their natural sweetness and tenderness, other sweet varieties like Walla Walla or Maui onions can work. Avoid very pungent onions as they may overpower the dish’s subtle flavors.

Do Tennessee Onions need to be covered when baking?

Covering the dish with foil traps steam and ensures the onion rings cook gently and become tender without drying out. Removing the foil near the end lets the cheese melt and brown beautifully.

Is there a vegetarian version of Tennessee Onions?

This classic recipe is naturally vegetarian, thanks to its use of cheese and butter, but if you want to make it vegan, you could substitute vegan cheeses and plant-based butter alternatives, though the flavor will vary.

Can I prepare Tennessee Onions ahead of time and bake later?

You can assemble the onions and seasoning the night before, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Just add the butter and cheese right before baking to ensure freshness and the best melt.

What makes Tennessee Onions different from other baked onion recipes?

The signature characteristic lies in the unique layering of sweet Vidalia onion rings with a robust spiced seasoning blend and a trio of melted cheeses, combined with butter and a slow baking process that creates an extraordinary balance of sweet, savory, and creamy textures.

Final Thoughts

Tennessee Onions are truly a treasure worth bringing into your recipe rotation. They showcase how simple ingredients, with a little patience and love, can come together to create something absolutely spectacular on the dinner table. Whether you’re serving them as a side or a starring dish, these onions will surely captivate your taste buds and warm your heart. Go ahead, try making Tennessee Onions soon—you might just find your new favorite comfort food.

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