Introduction

Tennessee Onions are a deliciously cheesy baked side dish featuring sweet onions layered with three types of cheese and seasoned with Italian herbs. Perfectly tender and golden, they make a flavorful alternative to onion rings that’s easy to prepare for any meal.

The image shows a close-up of two pieces of food with multiple thin layers, golden brown on the top with melted creamy cheese dripping down the sides. The texture of the layers looks soft but slightly crispy on the edges with some small browned bits scattered on the surface. The light shines on the glossy melted cheese that pools slightly between the layers, making it look rich and delicious. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Sweet onions (Vidalia or yellow), sliced ½ inch thick
Butter, cut into small pats
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Provolone cheese, sliced
Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly butter a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Arrange the sliced onions in a single layer inside the prepared dish.
Step 3: Season the onions evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then distribute small pats of butter over the top.
Step 4: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the onions, then layer the sliced provolone cheese on top. Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Step 6 (optional): For an extra crispy top, broil the dish for 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Tips & Variations

Use sweet Vidalia onions for a milder, sweeter flavor or yellow onions for a stronger taste.
Try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat twist.
Swap provolone for Swiss cheese if you prefer a nuttier flavor.
Serve alongside grilled meats or as a comforting vegetarian side dish.

Storage

Store leftover Tennessee Onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the cheese from becoming rubbery.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a stack of thin, golden layers resembling a croissant's flaky texture, topped with glossy melted butter that drips over the edges. The layers are crisp and richly browned on top, with a soft, creamy interior visible through a small gap between the layers. The stack rests on a white plate, set against a white marbled surface. Golden crumbs and small droplets of butter add texture and a rich look to the scene, inviting warmth and fresh baking vibes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare Tennessee Onions ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a few hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven for even cooking.

What can I serve with Tennessee Onions?

This cheesy side pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted meats, like steak or chicken, and also complements vegetarian meals such as pasta or grain bowls.

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

Print Recipe

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4.6 from 79 reviews

Tennessee Onions are a deliciously cheesy baked side dish featuring thickly sliced sweet onions layered with butter, Italian seasoning, and a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses. Baked until golden and bubbly, this comforting dish offers a flavorful alternative to traditional onion rings and makes a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Author: Lena
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Onion and Seasoning

Sweet onions (Vidalia or yellow), sliced ½ inch thick – 4 large
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
Salt – ½ teaspoon
Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon

Dairy

Butter, cut into small pats – 3 tablespoons
Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1 cup
Provolone cheese, sliced – 6 slices
Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup

Instructions

Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a medium-sized baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Arrange onion slices: Place the thickly sliced onion rings in a single, even layer within the baking dish to ensure even cooking.
Season and butter the onions: Sprinkle the onion slices evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dot the top generously with small pats of butter to infuse richness.
Add cheeses: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the onions, then layer the provolone cheese slices on top. Finish with a generous topping of grated Parmesan cheese for a sharp, nutty flavor.
Bake until bubbly: Place the baking dish uncovered into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Optional broil for crispiness: For an extra golden and crispy cheese topping, broil the dish for an additional 2 minutes—watch carefully to avoid burning.
Rest and serve: Let the Tennessee Onions rest for about 5 minutes after baking to allow flavors to settle before serving warm as a cheesy side dish.

Notes

Use Vidalia onions or other sweet onions for the best flavor and sweetness.
Make sure to slice the onions at least ½ inch thick to hold their shape during baking.
Feel free to adjust the cheese amounts or types based on preference—cheddar or fontina can be tasty alternatives.
Serve this dish with grilled meats or as a hearty side for barbecue meals.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven to retain crispness.

Keywords: Tennessee onions, baked onions, cheesy onions, side dish, easy baked onions, comfort food, onion recipe