Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tennessee Onions are a Southern comfort side dish made with thick-cut sweet onions baked in a blanket of melted cheese, butter, and savory seasonings. They’re incredibly simple, yet rich and full of flavor—perfect alongside grilled meats, burgers, or served as a hearty vegetarian option. With minimal ingredients and maximum comfort, these onions are an instant favorite.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Vidalia or sweet yellow onions (sliced thick)unsalted buttergarlic powdersalt and pepperItalian seasoningcheddar cheese (shredded)mozzarella cheese (shredded)Parmesan cheese (grated)fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Peel and slice onions into ½-inch thick rings. Separate rings and layer them evenly in the baking dish.
Season onions with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Dot with sliced butter or drizzle melted butter evenly over the top.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the onions.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Uncover and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until onions are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 45–50 minutesTotal time: 55–60 minutes
Variations
Add a splash of cream for a richer, gratin-style version.
Include crispy bacon or ham for a smoky flavor boost.
Use pepper jack for a spicier twist.
Swap Italian seasoning for ranch mix or Cajun spices.
Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before final bake for crunch.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm and bubbly, or microwave individual portions.Freezing not recommended due to texture changes in onions and cheese.
FAQs
What onions are best?
Vidalia or other sweet onions are traditional for their mild, buttery flavor.
Can I use red onions?
Yes, but they will have a stronger, more pungent taste.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, as long as cheese and butter are vegetarian-friendly.
Do I have to use all three cheeses?
No, use your favorites or what you have on hand—just ensure good melting quality.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, assemble ahead and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and cheese substitutes.
What pairs well with this dish?
Great with BBQ, grilled meats, burgers, or as a side for casseroles.
Can I slice onions thinner?
Yes, but they’ll cook faster and be softer—thicker slices hold their shape better.
Is it spicy?
Not by default—add hot sauce or chili flakes if desired.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish and extend bake time slightly.
Conclusion
Tennessee Onions are the ultimate Southern-style comfort side—melty, cheesy, and full of sweet, tender onion flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and hands-off baking time, they’re easy to love and hard to resist. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something cozy, this dish delivers warm, cheesy satisfaction every time.
Print
Tennessee Onions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 3 cups
- Category: Condiment/Side
- Method: Stovetop Caramelization
- Cuisine: American/Southern-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tennessee Onions are sweet, caramelized onions infused with brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and savory spices — perfect as a condiment for burgers, pulled pork, sandwiches, or roasted meats.
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil.
- Add sliced onions, season with a pinch of salt, and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent (about 10–12 minutes).
- Sprinkle in brown sugar and stir to coat the onions evenly. Cook another 3–4 minutes until caramel begins to form.
- Pour in apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and black pepper (plus red pepper flakes if desired).
- Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking, stirring every few minutes, until onions are deeply golden and jammy (about 15–20 minutes).
- Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt, sugar, or vinegar as needed.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- For richer flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of beer or bourbon in step 4.
- These onions pair especially well with grilled meats, BBQ sandwiches, brie, or flatbreads.
- Leftover onions make a savory topping for pizza or baked potatoes.