Tennessee Onions
Tennessee Onions is a classic Southern baked side dish made with thick-sliced sweet Vidalia onions, butter, and a blend of melted mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Easy to prepare and full of rich, savory flavor, this dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted chicken, and holiday spreads.
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch baking dish or cast iron skillet
- 1 Sharp Knife
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Cheese Grater for fresh shredded cheese
- 1 Aluminum foil
- 1 Oven mitts
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 large Vidalia sweet onions sliced into half-inch rings
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into small pieces
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese freshly grated preferred
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese freshly grated preferred
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese freshly grated preferred
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease your baking dish or cast iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.
- Peel and slice the onions into thick rings, about half an inch each. Thicker slices hold their shape better during baking.
- Layer the onion slices flat into the bottom of your prepared baking dish in a single, even layer.
- Dot the top of the onion slices with small pieces of butter spread across the entire surface.
- Season the onions with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Distribute evenly for consistent flavor.
- Add the mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the seasoned onions. Spread into an even layer covering all the onions.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top as the final layer for a golden, slightly crispy finish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes so the onions steam and soften under the foil.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Let the dish rest for five minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes it easier to scoop.
Notes
Use fresh Vidalia onions when in season for the sweetest flavor. Always shred cheese fresh from the block for the best melt. Do not skip the foil step during the first phase of baking. Slice onions at least half an inch thick to avoid mushiness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.