Tennessee Onions: A Cheesy, Sweet Southern Side Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a delightful combination of simplicity and flavor. The natural sweetness of Vidalia onions melds beautifully with the richness of butter and the savory depth of three cheeses—cheddar, Italian blend, and Parmesan. Baked until golden and bubbly, Tennessee Onions offers a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth experience that's perfect as a side dish or a topping for meats and burgers.

Ingredients

• 3–4 Vidalia sweet onions, sliced into ¼-inch rings

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.

2. Peel and slice the Vidalia onions into ¼-inch thick rings. Separate the rings and layer them evenly in the prepared baking dish.

3. Sprinkle the onions with salt, garlic powder, and dried oregano.

4. Distribute the butter pieces evenly over the seasoned onions.

5. Sprinkle the shredded Italian blend cheese, cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese over the onions and butter.

6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.

7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Substitutions: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.

• Herb Variations: Swap oregano for thyme or rosemary to add a different aromatic touch.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cheeses to make this dish vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

What are Tennessee Onions?

Tennessee Onions is a Southern casserole made with sweet Vidalia onions, butter, and a blend of cheeses, baked until tender and golden.

Can I use regular onions instead of Vidalia onions?

While Vidalia onions are preferred for their sweetness, you can substitute with other sweet onions like Walla Walla or Maui onions.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed before serving.

Can I freeze Tennessee Onions?

It's not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the onions may change upon thawing.

What can I serve with Tennessee Onions?

Tennessee Onions pairs well with grilled meats, roast chicken, or as a topping for burgers.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.

How do I prevent the onions from being too crunchy?

Ensure the onions are sliced evenly and bake the casserole covered for the first 40 minutes to allow the onions to soften properly.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

While traditionally made with onions, you can add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Is this dish spicy?

The recipe as written is not spicy. However, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.

Conclusion

Tennessee Onions is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the natural sweetness of Vidalia onions to the forefront, complemented by a rich blend of cheeses and savory herbs. Whether served as a side dish or a topping, it's sure to be a hit at your next meal. With its ease of preparation and comforting taste, this casserole is destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.