Tennessee Onions are a southern favorite that transform humble onions into a luxurious, cheesy, and buttery side dish. With their caramelized edges and gooey melted cheese, they manage to steal the spotlight from any main course they’re served with. This dish is all about coaxing out the natural sweetness of onions and pairing them with rich, comforting flavors.

Whether you’re grilling steaks or preparing a holiday spread, these baked onion rounds bring that perfect blend of rustic charm and indulgence. They’re simple to make, yet their flavor profile is anything but ordinary. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, Tennessee Onions deserve a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

What Kind of Onions Should I Use?

The best onions for this recipe are sweet varieties like Vidalia or Walla Walla. Their natural sugars caramelize beautifully when baked, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. If sweet onions aren’t available, yellow onions are a solid backup. Just avoid red onions or white onions, as they can turn sharp or bitter under prolonged baking.

Ingredients for the Tennessee Onions Recipe

Sweet Onions: The star of the dish. Their mellow, natural sweetness intensifies with baking and balances perfectly with the rich toppings.

Butter: Adds flavor and helps soften the onions while they bake. Salted butter works well here, adding a depth of taste.

Garlic Powder: A touch of savory warmth that enhances the onions without overpowering them.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and highlighting all the other flavors.

Cheese (Cheddar and Mozzarella): The gooey topping that turns these onions from simple to stunning. The sharpness of cheddar and the creaminess of mozzarella make a perfect pair.

Fresh Parsley (Optional): For a pop of color and a bit of herbal brightness after baking.

How To Make the Tennessee Onions Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, peel your onions and slice them into thick rings about ½ inch wide. Lay the slices flat and separate them into individual rings.

Step 2: Arrange the Onions

In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange the onion rings evenly in a single layer or slightly overlapping. You want the rings to roast and soften evenly, so avoid piling them too high.

Step 3: Season and Butter

Dot the onions with small cubes of butter across the surface. Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper generously over the top. The butter will melt into the onions, carrying the seasoning into every layer.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese generously over the onions. The combination of cheeses brings both sharp flavor and creamy meltiness.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. The onions should be tender, with edges that are slightly caramelized, and the cheese should be melted and golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of green. Serve warm, either as a side dish or a topping for grilled meats, burgers, or even baked potatoes.

Serving and Storing Tennessee Onions

Tennessee Onions are best served hot out of the oven, when the cheese is bubbling and the onion rings are tender. They’re a natural sidekick to grilled meats, barbecue, or even a hearty sandwich. This dish is versatile enough to accompany a casual cookout or be part of a more formal dinner spread.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps revive the texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving as it may make the onions rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How thick should I slice the onions?

About ½ inch thick is ideal. This thickness allows the onions to bake to a tender texture without falling apart.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely. While cheddar and mozzarella are a great combo, feel free to try Monterey Jack, provolone, or even pepper jack for a little kick.

Are Tennessee Onions gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the butter and seasonings you use don’t contain hidden gluten.

What should I serve these onions with?

They go wonderfully with grilled steak, pork chops, burgers, or roast chicken. They’re also great piled on baked potatoes or served as a warm appetizer.

Can I freeze them?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the onions and cheese can become watery or grainy upon thawing and reheating.

Tennessee Onions Recipe

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 35 minute
Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Description

Tennessee Onions are a Southern comfort food classic that transforms simple sweet onions into a decadent side dish. Baked with butter, seasoning, and a generous topping of melty cheddar and mozzarella cheese, these onions come out tender, flavorful, and golden. Ideal for serving with grilled meats or as a cozy party dish.

Ingredients

3 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla), sliced into ½-inch rings

4 tablespoons salted butter, cubed

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Peel and slice the onions into thick ½-inch rings, then separate into individual rings.
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange onion rings evenly.
Dot with butter cubes, and sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the onions.
Top with cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly.
Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until onions are tender and cheese is golden and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Category: Appetizers