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Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 67 reviews

Tennessee Onions are a delicious Southern-style baked side dish featuring thick slices of sweet onions layered with a trio of melty cheeses and butter, seasoned with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Baked until golden and bubbly, this cheesy, savory dish makes an indulgent accompaniment to grilled meats or a hearty vegetarian option.

Ingredients

Scale

Onions

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

Seasonings & Butter

  • 6 tablespoons butter, cut into small pats
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cheeses

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 6–8 slices provolone cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Slice the Onions: Peel the sweet onions and cut them into thick ½ inch slices, keeping the rings intact to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a casserole dish or 9×13-inch baking pan, then arrange the onion slices in a single layer. The slices may touch but should not be stacked.
  3. Season and Butter: Sprinkle the onions evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Distribute small pats of butter across the onion slices to impart richness as they bake.
  4. Layer on the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the onions, followed by a layer of provolone slices. Finally, spread the grated Parmesan cheese on top for a flavorful, crispy crust.
  5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Place the dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and starting to brown at the edges. For an extra crispy top, broil for 2 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the cheesy onions rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly for easier serving and better texture.

Notes

  • Use thick ½ inch onion slices to keep the onions intact during baking.
  • Alternate cheese options include sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.
  • Butter can be substituted with olive oil for a lighter version.
  • You can prep the onions and seasonings ahead of time; cover and refrigerate until baking.
  • Add red pepper flakes or use spicy cheese to make the dish spicier.
  • Best served with grilled meats, BBQ chicken, crusty bread, or rice.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes; avoid microwaving to maintain cheese texture.

Keywords: Tennessee Onions, baked onions, cheesy side dish, Southern comfort food, baked onion recipe, cheesy baked onions, vegetarian side dish

Find it online: https://biteandenjoy.com/cheesy-baked-tennessee-onions-recipe/