Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side Dish Better Than Onion Rings

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Tennessee Onions are what happens when the humble onion is transformed into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. Imagine thick onion slices baked until tender, wrapped in bubbling, golden cheese, and finished with just the right amount of savory seasoning. It’s not just a side dish—it’s the showstopper your table didn’t know it needed.

This recipe captures the heart of Southern comfort food: simple ingredients, rich flavor, and a texture so satisfying you’ll forget all about fries or rings. Whether you’re serving them alongside grilled meats or enjoying them as the main event with crusty bread, Tennessee Onions are the kind of dish that disappears fast.

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What Kind of Onion Works Best for Tennessee Onions?

Sweet Vidalia or yellow onions are the classic choice here. Their natural sugars caramelize beautifully in the oven, bringing a mellow, slightly sweet balance to the boldness of the cheese. You can use white onions too if you’re looking for a slightly sharper bite, but skip red onions—they tend to lose their vibrant color and can taste too strong once baked.

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Ingredients for the Tennessee Onions

• Sweet Onions – The base of this dish. You’ll want thick slices that hold up well during baking.
• Butter – A few pats help soften the onions and enrich the flavor.
• Italian Seasoning – Adds herbal depth and a bit of spice.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning each layer just right.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Brings that stretchy, gooey factor.
• Provolone Cheese – Adds creamy meltiness and a mild sharpness.
• Parmesan Cheese – Gives a salty, nutty bite that crisps up perfectly on top.

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How To Make the Tennessee Onions

Step 1: Slice the Onions

Peel your sweet onions and cut them into thick slices—about ½ inch thick. Keep the rings intact and lay them flat so they form a stable base for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a casserole dish or 9×13-inch pan. Arrange the onion slices in a single layer. It’s okay if they touch but avoid stacking them.

Step 3: Season and Butter

Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning over the onions. Place a few small pats of butter across the slices so each one gets a rich, buttery touch as it bakes.

Step 4: Layer on the Cheese

Start with mozzarella for its melty base, then add slices of provolone for creamy depth. Finish with a generous layer of grated Parmesan over the top for that perfect golden crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. The cheese should be bubbling and starting to brown around the edges. For extra crisp on top, you can broil for the last 2 minutes—just keep a close eye.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the onions rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly and keeps everything intact when you scoop them out.

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Serving and Storing Tennessee Onions

Tennessee Onions are best served piping hot, straight from the oven. They pair incredibly well with grilled meats, BBQ chicken, or even as a vegetarian centerpiece next to crusty bread or rice. The melty cheese and tender onions make them feel indulgent and hearty enough to carry a meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to revive their melty texture and golden top. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the cheese crisp.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How thick should I slice the onions?

About ½ inch thick is perfect. Thicker slices hold up better during baking and deliver that satisfying bite.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère would all be tasty options. Just make sure to use a mix of melty and flavorful cheeses.

Do I have to use butter?

Butter adds richness, but you can swap in olive oil if you prefer a lighter version.

Can I prep Tennessee Onions ahead of time?

Yes! You can slice and season the onions and assemble the dish (minus baking) a few hours ahead. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Can I make this dish spicy?

For a kick, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes or use a spicy cheese like pepper jack.

What can I serve these with?

They go great with grilled steak, pulled pork, burgers, or even as a side to a baked potato bar.

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Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If these cheesy Tennessee Onions have you reaching for seconds, you’ll love trying some of these other comfort-driven creations:

• Cheesy Cauliflower Patties for a low-carb, golden-crusted veggie bite.
• Roasted Potatoes and Carrots with earthy seasoning and crispy edges.
• Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip if you’re looking for a cool and creamy appetizer to contrast the heat.
• Spicy Sailor’s Dip for a bold, smoky addition to your spread.
• Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes for a hearty one-pot meal that pairs beautifully with cheesy onions.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board for side dishes or Southern comfort meals—it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to revisit.

Tried it? Let me know how it turned out! Did you stick with the cheese trio or make your own blend? Share your tweaks and tips in the comments. I love seeing how everyone makes these recipes their own.

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