Tennessee Onions Recipe

Tennessee Onions are a simple yet savory dish originating from Southern kitchens. The combination of sweet Vidalia onions, three types of cheeses, and seasonings, baked to perfection, creates a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of meals. This dish offers a perfect balance of flavors—sweetness from the onions and richness from the cheese—and it is incredibly easy to prepare.

Overview of the Recipe

This Tennessee Onions recipe is made with Vidalia onions, which are known for their natural sweetness, and a mixture of shredded cheeses, including Italian blend, cheddar, and Parmesan. The dish is seasoned with simple pantry spices like salt, garlic powder, and oregano, making it rich, savory, and cheesy.

It’s an excellent side dish for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any time you’re looking to add something new to your dinner table.

History and Origin

The dish’s roots are Southern, where Vidalia onions are a local favorite, especially in Georgia. The onion’s natural sweetness comes from the mild soil and climate in the region, and they are a staple ingredient in many Southern recipes. Tennessee Onions have become a classic comfort food, loved for their ease of preparation and their irresistible combination of caramelized onions and melted cheese.

This dish is an excellent representation of how Southern cooks often rely on simple ingredients to create comforting, hearty dishes that stand the test of time.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 Vidalia sweet onions
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1 cup Italian blend cheese, finely shredded
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, finely shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F to preheat while you prepare the ingredients.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish

Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures that the onions and cheese don’t stick to the dish and makes for easier cleanup later.

3. Slice the Onions

Using a sharp knife, slice the Vidalia onions into ¼ inch thick rounds. Be sure to slice them evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.

4. Layer the Onions in the Dish

Spread the sliced onions evenly in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they cover the bottom of the dish in a single layer to allow for even cooking.

5. Season the Onions

Sprinkle 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp oregano evenly over the onions. The seasonings will help bring out the flavor of the onions as they bake.

6. Add the Butter

Cut the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter into small pats and distribute them over the top of the onions. The butter will melt as the dish bakes, giving the onions richness and helping the cheese melt evenly.

7. Sprinkle the Cheese

Evenly distribute the 1 cup of Italian blend cheese, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the onions and butter. Make sure to cover the onions completely to get that nice bubbly, browned top layer.

8. Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know the dish is ready when the cheese is golden brown and bubbling, and the onions are soft and tender.

9. Serve Warm

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve it warm for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Tennessee Onions can be served alongside a variety of main courses. They pair especially well with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted turkey. The sweetness of the onions and the creaminess of the cheese complement rich and savory meats perfectly.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions:

• Grilled or roasted meats: Try serving Tennessee Onions with grilled chicken, steak, or beef brisket for a hearty meal.
• Holiday dinners: This dish fits right in with traditional holiday dishes like roast turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes.
• Casual BBQ: It’s also a great side for a Southern BBQ spread, alongside cornbread, coleslaw, and baked beans.

Variations of the Recipe

There are several ways you can modify this recipe to suit different tastes or dietary preferences:

1. Cheese Varieties

• Swap out cheeses: Instead of the Italian blend, try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Extra sharp cheddar: If you want a bolder taste, use extra sharp cheddar.

2. Spices

• Add paprika: For a smoky flavor, sprinkle a bit of paprika on top of the cheese before baking.
• Spicy kick: If you like a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

3. Onion Types

While Vidalia onions are preferred for their sweetness, you can also use:

• Yellow onions for a slightly stronger flavor.
• White onions for a sharper taste.

Alternative Options of the Recipe

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some alternative options:

• Vegan version: Replace the butter with a plant-based butter and use vegan cheese varieties to make the dish vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, so no substitutions are needed unless you add breadcrumbs or other gluten-containing ingredients.

Choosing the Right Tools for Cooking

• Sharp knife: A high-quality knife is essential for slicing onions evenly.
• 9×13 baking dish: Use a large baking dish to ensure even baking and room for all the onions and cheese.
• Oven mitts: With the dish baking at a high temperature, don’t forget oven mitts for safe handling.

Health Benefits Notes

Onions are rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which may help reduce inflammation. They also contain vitamins like C and B6 and essential minerals like potassium. This dish also incorporates cheese, which is a source of protein and calcium, though it is high in fat, so moderation is key if you’re mindful of calorie intake.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of onion?
A: Yes! While Vidalia onions are preferred for their sweetness, you can substitute them with yellow or white onions if needed.

Q: Can this dish be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare and assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I freeze Tennessee Onions?
A: Freezing isn’t recommended as the texture of the onions may change, becoming too mushy after thawing.

Conclusion

Tennessee Onions are an easy, cheesy, and flavorful side dish perfect for any meal, from casual family dinners to holiday feasts. With minimal prep time and a short ingredient list, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Its versatility allows for endless variations and customizations to suit your taste, and its simple ingredients make it accessible to most home cooks.

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