Southern cuisine is celebrated for its rich, soulful flavors, and Tennessee Onions are a shining example.
This recipe elevates the simple onion into a cheesy, savory masterpiece, making it an ideal side dish to pair with a variety of main courses.
If you love Southern comfort food, you’re in for a real treat with this delicious creation.
A Southern Side Dish That Shines
Tennessee Onions offer a unique spin on the classic onion side dish. By blending sweet onions with a creamy, cheesy mixture, this recipe delivers a side that’s both comforting and full of flavor.
Whether you serve it alongside grilled meats, roasted veggies, or as a topping for baked potatoes, Tennessee Onions bring an irresistible burst of flavor to any meal.
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Tennessee Onions
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the Tennessee Onions to perfection.
Step 2: Prepare the Onions
Peel and slice the sweet onions into thick rings, about 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) thick. Arrange these onion rings in a single layer in a baking dish.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Topping
In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This is the flavorful mix that will coat your onions.
Step 4: Apply the Topping
Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over the onion rings, making sure each piece is well-covered with the cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Bake the Onions
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. This will start to soften the onions. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the onions are tender and the topping is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Finish with Garnish
If you like, garnish your Tennessee Onions with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Tennessee Onions hot as a delicious side dish. They’re a perfect match for grilled steak, roasted chicken, or as a savory topping for baked potatoes.
Notes
Variations and Serving Ideas
- Bacon Bliss: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the cheese mixture before baking for an extra burst of flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives with the cheese mixture for a fragrant twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a spicy version of Tennessee Onions.
- Diet: Vegetarian
