Tennessee Onions big and bold

When it comes to side dishes that make a statement, Tennessee Onions are a top contender. This dish combines the sweetness of onions with a rich, cheesy topping that satisfies both the palate and the heart. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a comforting weeknight meal, Tennessee Onions are packed full of flavor and are surprisingly easy to make. They not only complement various main courses, but they also stand out as a tasty treat by themselves. If you have never heard of this dish before, be prepared for a delightful experience that highlights the humble onion in a big way.

Why make this recipe? First, it’s simple and quick to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum taste. Whether you are looking for a crowd-pleaser for parties or just something warm and comforting for your family, Tennessee Onions fit the bill. The combination of sweet onions and creamy cheese creates an irresistible dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. With a delightful crunch on top, this dish brings wonderful textures and flavors to the table.

How to make Tennessee Onions

Making Tennessee Onions is straightforward and allows you to create a delicious side dish in just a few simple steps. With only a handful of ingredients needed, you can have the comforting warmth of baked onions topped with melted cheese ready in no time. This recipe is not only tasty; it can also be adapted to suit different preferences, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

Ingredients:

To prepare Tennessee Onions, you will need the following ingredients:

3 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia), sliced into ¼-inch rings
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a dried thyme/oregano blend)
¼ teaspoon paprika
Pinch of salt and black pepper (to taste)

With these ingredients on hand, you are nearly ready to create a cheesy, oniony delight that everyone will love.

Directions:

Let’s walk through the steps to make Tennessee Onions perfectly.

Prep the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly butter or spray it to prevent sticking.
Layer onions: Once your dish is prepped, arrange the sliced onion rings in the dish, making sure to spread them out evenly. It’s okay if they overlap a little.
Season & drizzle: Next, pour the melted butter over the layered onions. Sprinkle on the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to give the onions flavor.
Add cheese: In a separate bowl, mix the three types of cheese together: cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan. Once mixed, scatter the cheese generously over the seasoned onions.
Bake: Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve: After baking, let the dish cool for about 5 minutes before serving so it can set and be easier to dish out.

Time Breakdown

For your meal planning, here’s a quick time breakdown:

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: Approximately 45 minutes
Total: About 1 hour

In less than an hour, you can have a delicious side that fills the home with lovely aromas and brings everyone to the table.

How to serve Tennessee Onions

Tennessee Onions are great served alongside a variety of main courses. They pair perfectly with grilled meats, such as chicken and steak, or can be enjoyed as a hearty side with a simple salad. For those who want a bit of variety, serve them with fried or baked fish for a delightful meal. The ooey-gooey, cheesy top layer invites everyone to dig in, while the soft and sweet layers of onion provide a lovely contrast.

How to store Tennessee Onions

If you happen to have leftovers, you can store Tennessee Onions in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container and keep them sealed tightly. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until they are warm and gooey again.

Tips to make Tennessee Onions

Consider these tips for making Tennessee Onions even better:

Don’t rush the baking time! The longer they bake, the more caramelized and flavorful the onions will become.
Experiment with different cheeses based on your preference; a mix of gouda and mozzarella could add even more richness.
Add some cooked bacon bits for an extra bit of flavor and texture. This could please bacon lovers everywhere.

Variation

Feel free to switch things up! You can add a layer of other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added textures and flavors. If you want to make the dish a little spicier, you might consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the mix. The beauty of Tennessee Onions is their flexibility.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

While the nutritional information may vary slightly based on ingredients and serving size, here’s an average for one serving:

Calories: 220
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 7g

Always consider portion size when enjoying this delicious dish, as the cheesy goodness can be quite rich!

FAQs

How can I make this recipe healthier? You can substitute some of the cheeses with lower-fat versions or use whole grain breadcrumbs on top instead of heavier cheese.

Can I use frozen onions? While fresh onions are recommended for the best flavor, if you have frozen onions, they can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians? Yes! Tennessee Onions are a vegetarian-friendly dish, making them a great addition to meatless meals. Enjoy them as a main dish or as a side.

Tennessee Onions offer a warm, rich taste that can easily win over even the pickiest eaters. With simple ingredients and an easy process, you can turn regular onions into something extraordinary. Try this recipe today and discover why it deserves a spot on your dinner table!