Baked Tennessee Onions

Simple, savory, and utterly irresistible, these Baked Tennessee Onions are the ultimate Southern-style side dish. Thick slices of sweet onions are layered with butter, seasonings, and a generous amount of cheese, then baked until tender and golden. This comforting casserole is a must-have for BBQs, holiday tables, potlucks, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing, cheesy side that pairs with just about anything.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make – Only a few ingredients and a simple bake
Sweet & Savory – Caramelized onions meet melted cheese for rich flavor
Versatile Side Dish – Great with grilled meats, burgers, roasts, and more
Budget-Friendly – Uses basic pantry staples
Perfect for Sharing – Makes a great addition to any family-style meal

Ingredients You’ll Need
3–4 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla), sliced into thick rings
3 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Tools You’ll Need
Baking dish (8×8 or 9×13 depending on quantity)
Sharp knife or mandoline
Cutting board
Foil (optional for covering while baking)
Spatula or serving spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
2. Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray

Step 2: Slice the Onions
3. Peel the onions and slice them into ½-inch thick rings
4. Separate the rings and layer them evenly in the baking dish

Step 3: Season and Add Butter
5. Sprinkle the onion layers with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper
6. Dot with butter pieces across the surface of the onions

Step 4: Add Cheese
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the onions
8. For extra flavor, add a light layer of grated Parmesan over the shredded cheese

Step 5: Bake
9. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes
10. Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the onions are tender

Step 6: Serve
11. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired
12. Serve hot alongside your favorite grilled meats, burgers, or casseroles

Tips for the Best Baked Onions
Use Sweet Onions – Vidalia or Walla Walla onions are perfect for their mild, sweet flavor
Slice Evenly – Uniform thickness ensures even baking
Choose Melty Cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, and Jack melt beautifully and add richness
Let Rest Before Serving – Let the dish sit for 5 minutes out of the oven to set and cool slightly
Make It a Casserole – Add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for a crunchy finish

Serving Suggestions
BBQ Chicken or Ribs – A natural match with smoky meats
Grilled Burgers – Serve as a cheesy onion side or layer right onto the burger
Roast Beef or Pork – Balances hearty meats with its soft, sweet texture
Southern Comfort Platter – Pair with cornbread, baked beans, and coleslaw for a classic spread

How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Freezing:
Not recommended—the onions may lose texture when thawed

Reheating:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warm and bubbly
Microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use red or yellow onions?
   Yes, but sweet onions are preferred for their mild flavor. Red onions will have a sharper bite
2. Can I add bacon or sausage?
   Absolutely! Cooked crumbled sausage or bacon adds a savory twist
3. What’s the best cheese combo?
   Try cheddar and mozzarella for flavor and melt, or add Monterey Jack for extra creaminess
4. Can I make it ahead?
   Yes, assemble the dish up to a day ahead, cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready
5. Is this dish kid-friendly?
   Yes! The natural sweetness of the onions and melted cheese is usually a hit with all ages

Final Thoughts
Baked Tennessee Onions are the kind of comforting, Southern-inspired side dish that everyone falls in love with after just one bite. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, they’re a guaranteed hit at any table. Whether you serve them at a backyard cookout or alongside your Sunday roast, this dish brings classic charm and cheesy goodness to every meal.
Try it out and let me know how it turns out—share your photos online and tag your version of this Southern favorite!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American – Southern

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 6g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 320mg

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