Tennessee Onions Recipe
Introduction
Tennessee Onions are a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring sweet onions baked with a blend of spices and topped with melted cheeses. This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the onions while adding a rich, savory touch perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds sweet onions
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Step 2: Slice the sweet onions into thick pieces, about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure even cooking.
- Step 3: Toss the sliced onions with Italian seasoning, dry mustard, cayenne, and paprika. Spread them evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Step 4: Scatter the cubed salted butter over the onions, then sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar and gouda cheeses evenly on top.
- Step 5: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Step 6: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the cheese has fully melted and is bubbling.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder flavor, use less cayenne or omit it entirely.
- Try adding a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme for extra depth.
- Substitute the gouda with mozzarella for a creamier cheese texture.
- Use unsalted butter and add salt to taste if you prefer more control over seasoning.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, or microwave on medium power to avoid drying out the onions and cheese.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of onions for this recipe?
Sweet onions are best because they caramelize nicely and have a mild flavor, but yellow onions or Vidalia onions can also work well.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan shredded cheeses to make this dish dairy-free.
PrintTennessee Onions Recipe
Tennessee Onions are a comforting and flavorful baked onion dish featuring thickly sliced sweet onions seasoned with Italian herbs and spices, then generously topped with butter and a blend of sharp cheddar and gouda cheeses. Baked until tender and melty, this side dish combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a subtle spicy kick, perfect for enhancing any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 pounds sweet onions
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare it for baking the onions.
- Slice Onions and Season: Slice the sweet onions into thick rounds about 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking. Toss the onion slices with Italian seasoning, dry mustard, cayenne pepper, and paprika, then place them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add Butter and Cheese: Distribute the cubed salted butter evenly over the seasoned onions. Next, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar and gouda cheeses on top to cover the onions.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This step softens the onions and allows the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This final bake melts and slightly browns the cheese, and ensures the onions reach your preferred tenderness.
Notes
- For best results, use sweet onions such as Vidalia or Walla Walla to achieve natural sweetness.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity according to your preferred spice level.
- You can substitute the gouda cheese with another mild melting cheese if preferred.
- Ensure the onions are cut to even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set before serving.
Keywords: Tennessee onions, baked onions, cheesy onion side dish, southern side recipe, cheesy baked onions
