Tennessee Onions are a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish that embodies Southern comfort cooking. Thick slices of sweet onions are baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce, resulting in a tender, caramelized dish that pairs perfectly with steak, chicken, or pork. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is quick to prepare and absolutely irresistible. Whether served at a family dinner or a holiday feast, Tennessee Onions are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 3 large sweet onions (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and sliced into ½-inch rings
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- Fresh parsley (optional), for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Prepare the Onions:
Arrange the onion slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly if necessary. - Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the heavy cream, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. - Assemble the Dish:
Pour the cream mixture evenly over the onions. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Dot the dish with butter pieces. - Bake the Onions:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. - Serve:
Let the onions rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color.
Notes
- Onions: Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla work best for this dish, but yellow onions can be used if sweet onions are unavailable.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with cheeses like Gruyere or sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the dish a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as instructed when ready to serve.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair Tennessee Onions with grilled meats, mashed potatoes, or even as a topping for crusty bread.
This easy, cheesy Tennessee Onions recipe is a Southern favorite that will quickly become a staple at your table. Creamy, rich, and utterly delicious!
