Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side Recipe
If you’re longing for a side dish that brings comfort and flair to your table, look no further than Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side. This dish is a glorious twist on classic baked onions that delivers a melty, cheesy finish you won’t forget. With layers of sweet onions, butter, a blend of Italian herbs, and three types of cheese, it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a rich, savory experience that effortlessly outshines typical onion rings. If you love indulgence balanced with natural sweetness and just the right amount of savory goodness, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side lies in using straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a powerful punch in flavor and texture. Each one plays a crucial role, from the sweetness of the onions to the creamy, melty cheese that crowns the dish.
- Sweet onions (Vidalia or yellow): Choose large, thick slices about ½ inch thick for perfect tenderness and sweetness.
- Butter: Small pats placed on top help enhance richness and promote browning as the dish bakes.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that brings herbaceous nuance and a subtle earthy note.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that balance the natural sweetness of the onions.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds creamy meltiness and a mild, inviting flavor.
- Provolone cheese, sliced: Brings a slightly tangy, elastic texture that complements mozzarella perfectly.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle on top for a salty, nutty finish and a beautiful golden crust.
How to Make Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a baking dish to create a non-stick surface that will also add a hint of richness to the bottom layer as the onions bake.
Step 2: Layer the Onion Slices
Arrange your thick-cut sweet onion slices in a single, even layer inside the buttered dish. This ensures each slice cooks uniformly and lets the cheeses meld beautifully over every piece.
Step 3: Season and Butter
Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning all over the onions to infuse layers of flavor. Then dot small pats of butter on top — these will melt into the onions, adding sumptuous moisture and depth.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Start by sprinkling shredded mozzarella evenly across the layered onions. Follow with slices of provolone cheese to encourage a lovely stretch and melt. Finally, finish off with a generous dusting of grated Parmesan to invite a crisp and savory golden topping.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly, gooey, and slightly browned on top. This is where all the magic melds together.
Step 6: Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness
If you crave a bit of crunch, pop the dish under the broiler for 2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning — you’re aiming for just a touch of crispy cheese edges.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Let the dish sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes serving easier, while keeping everything warm and irresistible.
How to Serve Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side
Garnishes
For a fresh pop of color and texture, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top just before serving. These herbs add a bright counterpoint that enhances the savory cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side pairs beautifully with grilled meats like steak or chicken, roasted vegetables, or alongside a hearty salad. Its rich, cheesy nature makes it an ideal companion to balance lighter dishes too.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these baked onions on a rustic wooden board alongside crusty bread and a charcuterie board for an upscale twist. Alternatively, scoop generous portions atop burgers or steak sandwiches for an indulgent twist on classic condiments.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead side.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to maintain the crispiness on top, or microwave until heated through for a faster option, though the texture may soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of onions?
Absolutely! While sweet onions like Vidalia bring the best natural sweetness, yellow or even red onions can work, though the flavor will be sharper. It’s all about what you prefer.
Is there a substitute for the Italian seasoning?
If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of rosemary will replicate the flavor profile nicely.
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Swapping provolone for mozzarella, cheddar, or even gouda can add unique flavors. Just keep a balance between melty and sharp cheeses for the best results.
How thick should the onion slices be?
About ½ inch thick is ideal to ensure the onions stay tender but hold their shape during baking. Too thin and they might become mushy; too thick and they may take longer to cook through.
Can this dish be made vegan?
To make a vegan version, use plant-based butter and vegan cheese alternatives that melt well. The flavors won’t be exactly the same, but you’ll still get that wonderful baked onion experience.
Final Thoughts
Giving Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side a try means inviting a rich, comforting, and downright delicious dish to your meal rotation. It’s a perfect way to take humble onions and transform them into a star side that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe brings cheesy warmth and a homey feel that’s hard to resist. So gather those simple ingredients and bake your way to a new favorite today!
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Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tennessee Onions are a savory, cheesy baked side dish featuring thick-sliced sweet onions layered with a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses, seasoned with Italian herbs and baked to golden, bubbly perfection. This comforting recipe offers a delicious alternative to traditional onion rings, with a rich, cheesy crust and tender onions inside.
Ingredients
Onions
- 3 large sweet onions (Vidalia or yellow), sliced ½ inch thick
Seasonings & Butter
- 3 tbsp butter, cut into small pats
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a medium-sized baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Arrange Onions: Place the ½-inch thick onion slices in a single layer across the bottom of the buttered baking dish, ensuring even coverage for consistent cooking.
- Season Onions: Sprinkle the onion slices evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the natural sweetness and add a herbal depth of flavor. Dot the onions with small pats of butter for richness.
- Add Cheeses: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the onions first, then layer the provolone cheese slices on top. Finish by generously topping with grated Parmesan cheese for a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly, and the onions are tender.
- Optional Broil: For a crispier top layer, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and for easier serving. Serve warm as a delicious side dish alternative to traditional onion rings.
Notes
- If you prefer milder onions, use Vidalia onions; they also add natural sweetness.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder before baking.
- Use a combination of cheeses you prefer; cheddar can be substituted for provolone if desired.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure all seasonings and cheeses are certified gluten-free.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a hearty vegetable platter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: Tennessee onions, cheesy baked onions, baked onion side dish, onion recipes, Southern side dishes, cheesy onions, comfort food
