Tennessee Onions – Classic Southern Onion Casserole

Introduction

The Tennessee Onions casserole is a true Southern gem that turns humble onions into a flavorful, cheesy, and creamy side dish. With its layers of sweet Vidalia onions, melted cheese, butter, and savory herbs, this dish brings rich, comforting flavors to your table.

Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday dinners, Tennessee Onions can be enjoyed as a side dish or even as a topping for burgers, steaks, or grilled chicken. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your most requested dishes at every event.

If you love hearty Southern comfort food, you might also enjoy pairing Tennessee Onions with recipes like Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings or serving it alongside a light Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad.

Why You’ll Love Tennessee Onions

Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh Vidalia onions.
Incredible Flavor: Sweet onions paired with cheese and herbs for a bold, comforting taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks or family meals.
Versatile Dish: Works as both a side dish and a flavorful topping.

Ingredients

Cooking spray
2½ lb sweet Vidalia onions, sliced crosswise into ¼-inch thick rings and separated
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried parsley flakes
1 tsp garlic salt
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dry mustard
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
¼ cup salted butter, cut into small cubes
4 oz mild Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
4 oz smoked Gouda cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)

Tip: If Vidalia onions are unavailable, substitute with other sweet onions like Walla Walla or Texas Sweet.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Season the Onions

In a large bowl, toss the onion rings with thyme, parsley, garlic salt, oregano, mustard, and cayenne pepper.
Separate the rings to ensure even cooking and seasoning.

Step 3: Arrange in Baking Dish

Spread the seasoned onions evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Add Butter and Cheese

Scatter cubes of butter over the onions.
Sprinkle shredded Cheddar and smoked Gouda evenly on top for a creamy, gooey layer.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes until the onions are tender and bubbling.

Step 6: Bake Uncovered

Remove the foil and continue baking for 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the Tennessee Onions cool slightly before serving.
Serve hot as a flavorful side or topping for grilled meats and sandwiches.

Flavor Profile

The magic of Tennessee Onions comes from the sweet Vidalia onions. They caramelize slightly as they bake, blending perfectly with the buttery, cheesy sauce. The result is a dish that’s slightly tangy, creamy, and savory, with a hint of heat from the cayenne pepper.

Tips for Perfect Tennessee Onions

Even Slices: Keep onion slices uniform (¼ inch thick) for consistent cooking.
Separate Rings: Ensure onions are separated so they don’t clump together.
Cheese Variations: Try mozzarella or provolone if you don’t have Gouda.
Spice Control: Adjust cayenne pepper to your taste preference.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or extra cayenne for more heat.
Three-Cheese Blend: Include mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Veggie Mix: Add sliced zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful twist.

Serving Suggestions

As a Side Dish: Ideal for barbecues, holiday feasts, or family dinners.
On Burgers: Spoon Tennessee Onions over burgers for extra flavor.
With Meats: Perfect with grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops.
In Sandwiches: Use as a cheesy filling for grilled cheese or paninis.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F until fully heated.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10

Tools Needed

Large mixing bowl
13×9-inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
Sharp knife

Final Thoughts

The Tennessee Onions recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create bold, comforting flavors. With sweet Vidalia onions, melty cheese, and a touch of spice, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

Serve Tennessee Onions as a side at your next barbecue or holiday dinner, and don’t be surprised when guests ask for seconds. For more Southern-inspired comfort food, check out trusted guides on Allrecipes or pair with a bowl of Basic Vegetable Soup.

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