Tennessee Onions Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tennessee Onions are not just a dish; they are a nostalgic and comforting Southern classic. Here's why you'll love it:

1. Southern Comfort: A rich, cheesy, and crispy take on sweet onions.

2. Quick and Easy: Minimal prep with maximum flavor.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for cookouts, potlucks, or family dinners.

4. Customizable: Add your favorite cheeses or spices to make it your own.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla)

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional:

• Garlic powder or onion powder

• Paprika

• Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley)

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.

2. Slice the onions into ¼ to ½-inch rings.

3. Layer the onion rings in the baking dish.

4. Drizzle melted butter over the onions.

5. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly over the onions.

6. Top with breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper.

7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack.

• Breadcrumbs: Use crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery finish or panko for extra crunch.

• Add Proteinbacon bits for a heartier dish.: Layer cooked ground beef or bacon bits for a heartier dish.

• Onion Options: Try red onions or shallots for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

• Reheating: Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, broiling for 2 minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

Can I make Tennessee Onions ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them a few hours in advance and bake just before serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a 9x13-inch dish and double the ingredients.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack.

Are Tennessee Onions gluten-free?

No, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute.

Are they vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian.

Can I freeze Tennessee Onions?

While freezing is possible, the texture may change. For best results, store in the fridge and reheat.

What’s the best onion for this recipe?

Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla work best due to their mild and caramelized flavor.

Can I add garlic to this dish?

Yes, garlic powder or fresh garlic will enhance the flavor.

How can I make the breadcrumbs crunchier?

You can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking for extra crunch.

Can I use other spices?

Feel free to add paprika, cayenne pepper, or thyme for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Tennessee Onions are a comforting, cheesy, and savory dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet onions, melty cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs makes this a standout recipe that will be loved by all. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy meal, this dish is sure to impress.

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Tennessee Onions are a Southern comfort food favorite, made with sweet onions, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs. Baked to golden perfection, this dish is a perfect side or appetizer for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners. With a rich cheesy flavor and a satisfying crunch, Tennessee Onions are a must-try recipe that will delight any crowd.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern, American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

2 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla)

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional:

Garlic powder or onion powder

Paprika

Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley)

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.

• Slice the onions into ¼ to ½-inch rings.

• Layer the onion rings in the baking dish.

• Drizzle melted butter over the onions.

• Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly over the onions.

• Top with breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper.

• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

• Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Feel free to swap cheddar cheese with other varieties like mozzarella or Gruyère.

• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery finish.

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.