Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side Recipe

If you’ve ever thought onions could use a cheesy makeover, then prepare to fall head over heels for Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side. This dish transforms humble sweet onions into a melty, golden delight that’s so much better than onion rings. With layered cheeses melting into tender, buttery onions seasoned just right, it’s comfort food that sings Southern charm and easy elegance in every bite. Whether you’re aiming to wow guests or simply treat yourself, this baked side is nothing short of addictive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To bring Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side to life, you’ll only require a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a critical role. From the natural sweetness of Vidalia onions to the rich blend of cheeses, these basics ensure the perfect balance of flavors and textures, creating a side that stands out.

• Sweet onions (Vidalia or yellow): Their natural sweetness and mild flavor form the tender base of the dish.
• Butter, cut into small pats: Adds richness and helps create that irresistible golden crust.
• Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant, herby depth that complements the cheeses beautifully.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly, providing gooey, stretchy texture.
• Provolone cheese, sliced: Adds a subtle tang and lovely meltiness layered atop the onions.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty finish and a golden, crispy top.

How to Make Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter your baking dish so the onions won’t stick and the butter can meld with the layers during baking, setting a rich foundation.

Step 2: Arrange the Onion Slices

Place your half-inch thick sweet onion slices in a single layer in the buttered dish. Arranging them carefully ensures each slice bakes evenly and every bite will have that perfect balance of tender onion and cheese.

Step 3: Season and Butter

Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning over the onions. Dot the top generously with small pats of butter. This step infuses the dish with savory warmth and ensures every layer is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Cheese It Up

Now for the cheesy goodness: sprinkle shredded mozzarella first, then layer slices of provolone right over the onions. Finally, shower the top with grated Parmesan to create that irresistible golden crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling happily and the cheese has turned a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 6: Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness

If you crave that extra crisp, pop your dish under the broiler for about 2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. This finish adds an irresistible texture contrast.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking. This not only cools it slightly to avoid burns but also helps the cheesy layers set just enough for perfect, clean servings.

How to Serve Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh herbal pop that brightens the rich, cheesy flavors of Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side perfectly. A dash of smoked paprika can introduce a subtle smoky hint to mix things up.

Side Dishes

This dish shines alongside classic Southern mains like fried chicken or smoked pork, but also pairs beautifully with grilled steak or roasted vegetables. Its rich, cheesy texture complements lighter salads and adds a comforting contrast to fresh green beans or creamed corn.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, serve the cheesy onions in small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets, making individual portions that look as delightful as they taste. You can also layer the onions on toasted baguette slices for a savory appetizer twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making your Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side even more delightful the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep this cheesy dish longer, it freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Just be aware the texture of onions might soften slightly after thawing but the taste stays wonderful.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the golden crust and texture as much as possible.

FAQs

Can I use other types of onions for Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side?

Absolutely! While sweet onions like Vidalias are ideal for their mild flavor and natural sweetness, yellow onions or even mild red onions can work. Just note that stronger onions might add more bite to the dish.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side is naturally vegetarian as long as you use cheeses made without animal rennet. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and hearty side without meat.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely! Since the recipe doesn’t include any flour or breadcrumbs, it’s inherently gluten-free. Just double-check your Italian seasoning and cheeses if you have gluten sensitivities.

What’s the best cheese combination for this recipe?

The blend of mozzarella for meltiness, provolone for depth, and Parmesan for a nutty crust is perfect. Feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for variation.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Yes! Thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of smoked paprika can add interesting layers of flavor. Just be careful not to overpower the sweet onions and cheesy goodness that make Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side so special.

Final Thoughts

Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side is a real crowd-pleaser that turns simple ingredients into a sumptuous, cheesy wonder. If you love the idea of rich, cheesy baked onions that outshine any fried alternative, this recipe is your next kitchen hero. Give it a try and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight at the table.

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