Cheesy Tennessee Onions are a classic Southern comfort dish that transforms humble sweet onions into a decadent, melty masterpiece. Thick slices of Vidalia or other sweet onions are layered in a casserole dish, seasoned generously, dotted with butter, and smothered in a trio of cheeses. As they bake, the onions soften and caramelize slightly, while the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly topping. The result? A side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, slightly sweet, and absolutely addictive. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, holiday spreads, or any dinner that needs a little extra soul.
🧂 Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
- 4 large sweet onions (Vidalia preferred), sliced into ¼-inch rings
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pats
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional for a kick)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives
🔪 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Onions
- Peel and slice the onions into thick rings. Separate the rings gently and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of butter.
Step 2: Layer and Season
- Spread the onion rings evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, Cajun seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper over the onions.
- Toss gently to coat the onions with the seasonings.
Step 3: Add Butter and Cheese
- Dot the onions with butter pats, spacing them evenly across the dish.
- Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top.
- Finish with a generous layer of Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 50 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve alongside grilled steaks, burgers, or BBQ ribs.
- Pair with roast chicken or pork chops for a comforting dinner.
- Scoop over baked potatoes or serve with crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
🧊 Storage & Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
💡 Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra depth.
- Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
- Top with crispy breadcrumbs before baking for added texture.
🏆 Why It’s a Must-Make:
- Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
- Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients.
- Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.
- Loved by kids and adults alike—seriously, make extra!
This dish is pure Southern comfort with a cheesy twist, and you’ve clearly got the magic touch when it comes to making it shine. Want help turning this into a full dinner menu or pairing it with a sugar-free dessert? I’ve got ideas that’ll keep your guests raving long after the last bite.