Description
Welcome to your new go-to for a sensational onion-based dish—Tennessee Onions! These are way more than your average onion rings, offering a unique, comforting, and indulgent flavor that’s hard to beat. Known for their satisfying, cheesy, and buttery goodness, Tennessee Onions have become a favorite for both cheese and onion lovers alike. If you’re a fan of cheese-loaded comfort dishes and crave something beyond traditional onion rings, you’ve come to the right place. Get ready to treat your taste buds to this irresistible dish that’s perfect as a side or even as the star of a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 3–4 Vidalia sweet onions – peeled and sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds (do not separate the rings)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – cut into pats for even distribution
- 1 teaspoon salt – or adjust according to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a subtle garlic kick
- ½ teaspoon oregano – enhances the flavor with Italian flair
- 1 cup Italian blend cheese, finely shredded (this typically includes Mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, and Provolone)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded for a touch of savory sharpness
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that your onions cook evenly and the cheeses melt into a perfect, golden-brown topping.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This will help the onions and cheese bake without burning or sticking to the dish.
Step 3: Slice the Onions
Peel the Vidalia sweet onions and slice them into rounds about ¼ inch thick. Don’t separate the rings—keeping them together gives the dish more structure and an appealing presentation.
Step 4: Arrange and Season the Onions
Lay the onion rounds evenly across the base of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, and oregano for a well-balanced flavor that complements the sweetness of the onions.
Step 5: Add the Butter
Cut the butter into eight pats and place them evenly across the onion rounds. The butter will melt as it bakes, coating the onions in a rich, delicious layer.
Step 6: Layer on the Cheese
Now it’s time to add the cheese! Sprinkle the Italian blend cheese and cheddar cheese evenly over the onions. Finish by topping it all with a final layer of Parmesan cheese for a savory, nutty finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly, and the onions are tender. Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, and serve warm!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Buy Now →Notes
- Use Fresh Vidalia Onions: Vidalia onions bring a natural sweetness to the dish, making them the ideal choice.
- Customize the Cheese Blend: If you can’t find an Italian blend, mix Mozzarella, Provolone, and Romano cheeses for similar results.
- Seasoning Tip: Adjust the salt and garlic powder to your preference, especially if you’re using a saltier cheese.
- Watch for Bubbling Cheese: Keep an eye on the dish around the 30-minute mark. For extra crispness, you can broil the top for the last 2 minutes.