As I pulled the tray of baked Tennessee Onions from the oven, the mouthwatering aroma filled my kitchen, warming my heart and evoking cherished memories of family gatherings centered around comfort food. These delightful onions, layered with gooey cheese, create a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible side dish. Whether you’re seeking a standout complement to a holiday feast or a simple way to elevate a weeknight meal, this vegetarian recipe is an absolute gem. With its quick prep time and the ability to impress any crowd, it promises to be a favorite for both seasoned chefs and newcomers alike. Ready to discover the secret to pulling together this comforting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are Baked Tennessee Onions Amazing?
Comforting Delight: These Baked Tennessee Onions bring warmth and nostalgia with every bite, perfect for cozy moments or gatherings.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive side dish that requires minimal cooking skills.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet Vidalia onions and melty cheese offers a rich, savory flavor that will delight your taste buds.
Versatile Dish: Serve them alongside pot roast, grilled chicken, or as a topping for burgers to elevate any meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Great for both festive occasions and quiet dinners, these onions are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and simply bake before serving, making them the perfect go-to dish for your busy weeknight meals!
Looking for more delicious side dishes? Check out my post on easy vegetable sides for additional inspiration!
Tennessee Onions Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create the perfect Baked Tennessee Onions!
For the Onions
- Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking; use any non-stick spray for easy cleanup.
- Sweet Vidalia Onions – The star of the dish for its sweetness; substitute with another sweet onion if needed.
- Dried Parsley – Adds color and a hint of herbaceous flavor; feel free to use fresh parsley if available.
For the Seasoning Blend
- Dry Mustard – Offers a subtle tang that enhances the dish; mustard powder serves as a great alternative.
- Garlic Powder – Boosts overall flavor; fresh garlic can also be a flavorful substitute.
- Seasoned Salt – Adds depth to the seasoning; regular salt works, but flavors may vary.
- Dried Oregano – Imparts earthiness; Italian seasoning can replace it if desired.
- Kosher Salt – Balances flavors perfectly; regular salt can be used in a pinch.
- Cayenne Pepper – Gives a nice kick; adjust to taste or omit for less heat.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; pre-ground black pepper is suitable too.
For the Cheesy Topping
- Shredded Mozzarella – Melty cheese component that adds creaminess; provolone is a good substitute.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar – Contributes a robust flavor to the dish; mild cheddar or a cheese blend can work.
- Finely Grated Parmesan – Adds richness and a delightful nuttiness; Pecorino Romano is a tasty alternative.
For Assembly
- Unsalted Butter – Enhances creaminess and flavor; margarine can be used instead if preferred.
- Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth – Provides moisture; while you can use water, it may lack depth of flavor.
- Finely Chopped Fresh Parsley (for serving) – A lovely garnish; any fresh herb can elevate the dish.
Let’s get ready to bake these Tennessee Onions and enjoy a comforting side dish that will surely become a family favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tennessee Onions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center to allow for even baking. As the oven warms, the anticipation of delicious Baked Tennessee Onions begins to fill your kitchen!
Step 2: Prepare Baking Dish
Lightly spray a 13″ x 9″ baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easy cleanup and helps your onions bake beautifully without clinging to the dish. Set the prepared dish aside while you move on to the next step.
Step 3: Prep Onions
Peel your sweet Vidalia onions and slice them into 1/4″ rings, stacking the rings by size for even cooking. The sweetness of these onions is key to creating an irresistible flavor in your Tennessee Onions. Be sure to have them ready for the next assembly step!
Step 4: Mix Seasonings
In a mixing bowl, combine the dry mustard, garlic powder, seasoned salt, dried oregano, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and freshly ground black pepper for your seasoning blend. This fragrant mix will enhance the Baked Tennessee Onions with layers of flavor, so blend them well and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble Dish
Lay the prepared onion rings in the baking dish, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the onions, then dot with small pieces of unsalted butter. Pour low-sodium vegetable broth evenly over the top to introduce moisture and flavor into the dish.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 75 minutes. This slow, covered baking allows the Vidalia onions to soften and caramelize, creating a sweet, tender base for the Baked Tennessee Onions that will become extraordinarily flavorful.
Step 7: Add Cheese Mixture
After 75 minutes, remove the foil, and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and finely grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the soft onions. Return the dish to the oven uncovered, allowing the cheeses to melt and bubble, ensuring a luscious topping for your Tennessee Onions.
Step 8: Final Bake
Bake the Baked Tennessee Onions for an additional 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and begins to turn golden brown. For an extra touch, turn on the broiler for 1–2 minutes to create a beautifully browned, crispy layer. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Once perfectly baked, remove the dish from the oven, and let it cool slightly. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch and added flavor. Serve your Baked Tennessee Onions hot, reveling in the warmth and comfort that this dish brings to every meal!
What to Serve With Baked Tennessee Onions
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that bring out the savory goodness of this comforting dish.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes beautifully complements the gooey cheese and tender onions, creating a rich, satisfying experience.
- Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy grilled chicken adds a hearty protein element that balances the sweetness of the onions perfectly. The flavors mingle beautifully for an unforgettable dinner.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts offsets the sweetness of the onions while contributing a vibrant color to your table.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad brings bright, fresh flavors that cut through the richness of the Baked Tennessee Onions, creating a refreshing contrast. Include cherry tomatoes and cucumber for crunch!
- Herbed Quinoa: This nutty side dish adds a wholesome grain dimension to your meal while harmonizing with the earthy notes of the onions.
- Red Wine: A glass of light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, enhances the flavors and adds a touch of elegance to your dinner. Its subtle fruitiness pairs delightfully with the sweet onions.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse provides a sweet finish to your meal, balancing the savory richness of the main dish and leaving everyone satisfied.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots glazed in honey offer a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the cheesy onions, creating a well-rounded vegetable dish. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Tennessee Onions are the perfect dish for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the sweet Vidalia onions and layer them in the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance, covering the dish with foil to prevent browning. Additionally, you can mix the seasonings and cheeses separately, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the dish with the broth and butter, bake covered for 75 minutes, then add the cheese and finish baking until golden. This prep method ensures your Baked Tennessee Onions are just as delicious and comforting, saving you time on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Baked Tennessee Onions
- Uniform Slices: Ensure that your Vidalia onions are sliced evenly into 1/4″ rings for consistent cooking. This avoids undercooked or overcooked pieces.
- Watch the Cheese: When broiling to brown the cheese, keep a close eye on the oven. It can turn from golden to burnt quickly, ruining your Baked Tennessee Onions.
- Prep Ahead: Consider prepping the onions in advance. Assemble them in the dish and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for maximum flavor and convenience.
- Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. If you prefer milder flavors, simply omit it.
- Stay Moist: The vegetable broth is essential for preventing the onions from drying out. Never skip it to keep your Baked Tennessee Onions deliciously moist!
Tennessee Onions Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play around with these Baked Tennessee Onions and make them your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives for a plant-based twist everyone can enjoy.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor. The aroma of fresh herbs will elevate your dish to new heights!
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Extra Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy surprise that will delight heat lovers. Adjust the heat level to make it just right for your palate.
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Texture Twist: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or cooked bacon for a savory crunch that adds depth to the dish. Each bite will offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures!
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Italian Flair: Replace the seasonings with Italian herbs or a mix of garlic and onion powder for a different flavor profile. This twist will take your Tennessee Onions to a new culinary destination.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked cheddar or gouda instead of regular cheddar for a smokier taste that brings a unique twist to your side dish.
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Layered Veggies: Add thinly sliced zucchini or bell peppers between the onion layers for a colorful medley. This not only enhances the dish nutritionally but also adds a pop of color!
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Slow Cooker Option: Consider preparing these in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach. Just layer the ingredients and let the magic happen!
If you’re looking for more exciting side dishes, be sure to check out my post on easy vegetable sides for additional ideas!
Storage Tips for Tennessee Onions
Fridge: Store leftover Baked Tennessee Onions in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to restore their delicious gooey texture. Avoid the microwave for best results!
Make-Ahead: These Tennessee Onions can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge before baking, making dinner prep a breeze on busy nights.
Tennessee Onions Recipe FAQs
What type of onions should I use for Tennessee Onions?
Absolutely! Sweet Vidalia onions are the star of this dish due to their unique sweetness and tenderness when baked. If you can’t find Vidalias, you can substitute them with other sweet onions like Walla Walla or Maui onions for a similar flavor profile.
How do I store leftover Baked Tennessee Onions?
For sure! Store leftover Baked Tennessee Onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to regain that gooey texture. Avoid the microwave since it may make the onions chewy rather than tender.
Can Baked Tennessee Onions be frozen?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze portions of your Baked Tennessee Onions in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight, then reheat in the oven. This method helps maintain their flavor and texture, making them great for last-minute meals!
What should I do if the cheese is burning while broiling?
Very! If you notice the cheese browning too quickly under the broiler, simply lower the rack in the oven or move the dish away from the direct heat. Keep a close eye on it, as it only takes a minute or two to reach that delicious golden hue without overdoing it.
Can pets eat Baked Tennessee Onions?
Not at all! It’s important to keep in mind that onions are toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. Ensure that any leftovers are stored securely out of their reach. If your pet accidentally consumes any onions, consult a veterinarian immediately for advice.
Are Baked Tennessee Onions gluten-free?
Absolutely! The ingredients listed in Baked Tennessee Onions, including sweet Vidalia onions and the cheese topping, are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels on your specific seasonings and broth to confirm that they’re also free from gluten for a worry-free dish!
Savor the Comfort of Baked Tennessee Onions Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.
- Lightly spray a 13" x 9" baking dish with cooking spray.
- Peel your sweet Vidalia onions and slice them into 1/4" rings.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dry mustard, garlic powder, seasoned salt, dried oregano, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Lay the prepared onion rings in the baking dish, sprinkle with seasoning mixture, and dot with unsalted butter.
- Cover and bake for 75 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the cheeses over the onions. Bake uncovered until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
- Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley before serving.
