Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side Dish Better Than Onion Rings Recipe

Introduction

Tennessee Onions are a deliciously cheesy baked side dish that easily steals the spotlight from traditional onion rings. Thick-cut sweet onions layered with three kinds of cheese create a comforting, flavorful treat perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• Sweet onions (Vidalia or yellow), sliced ½ inch thick
• Butter, cut into small pats
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Provolone cheese, sliced
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly butter a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: Arrange the onion slices in a single layer in the prepared dish.
3. Step 3: Season the onions evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Distribute small pats of butter on top of the onions.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the onions, then lay slices of provolone cheese on top. Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese over everything.
5. Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Step 6 (optional): For extra crispiness, broil the dish for 2 minutes—but watch carefully to prevent burning.
7. Step 7: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and cheese to set slightly.

Tips & Variations

• Use Vidalia onions for natural sweetness, or yellow onions if Vidalias are unavailable.
• Swap provolone for cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for added richness.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain the cheesy texture without drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare Tennessee Onions ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What type of onions work best in this recipe?

Sweet onions like Vidalia are ideal because of their mild, natural sweetness, but yellow onions are a good substitute if needed.

Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side Dish Better Than Onion Rings Recipe

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4.5 from 65 reviews

Tennessee Onions are a rich and cheesy baked side dish featuring thick-cut sweet onions layered with a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses, seasoned with Italian herbs and butter. This comforting dish is a flavorful alternative to traditional onion rings, perfect for pairing with any meal or serving as a savory appetizer.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American, Southern

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 3 large sweet onions (Vidalia or yellow), sliced ½ inch thick

Dairy & Cheese

• 4 tablespoons butter, cut into small pats
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 6 slices provolone cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly butter a medium-sized baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
2. Layer Onions: Arrange the ½ inch thick sweet onion slices in a single even layer in the prepared baking dish to ensure even cooking and browning.
3. Season: Sprinkle salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly over the onion slices for a balanced, herby flavor profile. Dot the onions with small pats of butter to add richness and help caramelization.
4. Add Cheese Layers: First, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the seasoned onions. Then, layer the slices of provolone cheese on top, followed by a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese to build a flavorful cheesy crust as it bakes.
5. Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the onions are tender and the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
6. Optional Broil: For an extra crispy and browned top, broil the dish for 2 additional minutes, closely monitoring to prevent burning.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the cheesy baked onions rest for 5 minutes to set before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to firm up slightly for easier serving.

Notes

• Use sweet onions like Vidalia for the best balance of sweetness and mild flavor.
• Adjust the amount of cheese according to your preference for a gooier or lighter topping.
• Broiling is optional but recommended for a crispy cheese crust.
• Serve as a side dish or as a rich appetizer paired with grilled meats or salads.
• For a lower-fat version, reduce butter or use a light cheese alternative.

Keywords: Tennessee onions, cheesy baked onions, baked onion side dish, onion rings alternative, melted cheese onions, southern side dish