Tennessee Onions – A Cheesy Southern Comfort Side Dish
Tennessee Onions may look humble, but one bite is all it takes to understand why this dish has earned a loyal following across Southern kitchens. Sweet onions baked low and slow until tender, then smothered in melty cheese and butter, create a side dish that feels indulgent, cozy, and deeply comforting. It’s simple food done right—the kind that disappears fast at potlucks, cookouts, and holiday tables.
This recipe celebrates onions in their best form. Baking transforms sharp raw onions into something mellow, slightly sweet, and almost silky. When paired with butter and cheese, they become rich without being heavy, savory without being overpowering. Tennessee Onions are often served alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or barbecue, but they’re just as satisfying spooned straight from the dish.
What makes this recipe so beloved is how effortless it is. No complicated steps, no fancy ingredients—just honest comfort food that tastes like it’s been passed down for generations. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a weeknight dinner feel special, Tennessee Onions are always a hit.
Ingredients:
- 4 large sweet onions (Vidalia preferred)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel the onions and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Arrange the onion slices evenly in the baking dish, separating rings slightly.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the onions.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the top.
- Combine the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, then sprinkle evenly over the onions.
- Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Tennessee Onions
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice onions and arrange in a greased baking dish.
- Drizzle with butter and season.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake covered, then uncovered until bubbly and golden.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Use sweet onions for the best flavor—Vidalia onions are ideal.
- Slice onions evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Covering the dish first prevents the cheese from browning too quickly.
- For extra richness, add a little cream between the onion layers.
Variations
- Add crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
- Use mozzarella or provolone instead of Monterey Jack.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs on top for crunch.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for subtle heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled steak, pork chops, or barbecue chicken.
- Pair with roasted turkey or ham for holiday meals.
- Spoon over baked potatoes for an indulgent topping.
- Serve with crusty bread to scoop up the cheesy onions.
Storage Information
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the onions may change.
FAQ
- Are Tennessee Onions spicy? No, sweet onions mellow beautifully when baked.
- Can I make this ahead? Yes—assemble up to a day ahead and bake before serving.
- Can I use yellow onions? Yes, but sweet onions give the best result.
History / Fun Facts
Tennessee Onions are a Southern classic that gained popularity through church suppers and family gatherings. The dish highlights the South’s love for simple, flavorful ingredients transformed through slow baking and generous use of butter and cheese
