The Cheesy, Baked Southern Side You Didn’t Know You Needed
If you’re craving something melty, rich, and deeply savory, look no further than Tennessee Onions. This simple Southern casserole layers sweet onions with a generous helping of cheese, butter, and seasonings, all baked until bubbling and golden. It’s pure comfort food—and a brilliant way to turn humble onions into the star of the table.
I love this dish because it’s incredibly easy to throw together, made with pantry staples, and pairs perfectly with everything from burgers and BBQ to steak or roasted chicken. It’s budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and oh-so-satisfying.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: What are Tennessee Onions, exactly?
It’s a baked dish made with thick-cut sweet onions (like Vidalia), butter, seasonings, and melted cheese—kind of like French onion soup meets a casserole.
Q: What kind of onions should I use?
Vidalia onions are traditional (sweet and Southern!), but Walla Walla, Maui, or any sweet yellow onions will work beautifully.
Q: Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! You can slice the onions and layer everything in your baking dish, then cover and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
Q: What cheese works best?
I like a blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella for flavor and melt. Feel free to use whatever melty cheeses you have on hand.
Q: What do you serve with Tennessee Onions?
They’re great with grilled meats, baked potatoes, burgers, ribs, pork chops, or even as a topping for steak.
What You Need to Make Tennessee Onions
- 3 large sweet onions (Vidalia preferred), sliced into ½-inch rings
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
How to Make Tennessee Onions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole.
Step 2: Layer the Onions
- Place sliced onions in a single, overlapping layer in the dish.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 3: Add Butter and Cheese
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the onions.
- Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot!
Tips for the Best Tennessee Onions
✔ Use sweet onions for the best flavor—they mellow beautifully when baked.
✔ Slice thick so they don’t over-soften during baking.
✔ Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
✔ Customize your cheese mix—try Gruyère, pepper jack, or provolone for a twist.
✔ Add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top if you like a crispy finish.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “These onions are addicting! I served them with BBQ ribs and the combo was chef’s kiss.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “Simple ingredients, huge flavor. I’ve made this twice already—my new favorite side dish.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “Who knew onions could be this delicious? That cheesy top is heavenly.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “Made them for a cookout and everyone raved. Definitely doubling it next time!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “Comfort food perfection. The sweet onions and melty cheese combo is unreal.”
Printable Recipe
Tennessee Onions
These Tennessee Onions are thick-cut sweet onions baked in butter and topped with bubbling cheese—an easy, old-school Southern side dish full of flavor!
Ingredients
- 3 large sweet onions (Vidalia preferred), sliced into ½-inch rings
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole.
Step 2: Layer the Onions
- Place sliced onions in a single, overlapping layer in the dish.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 3: Add Butter and Cheese
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the onions.
- Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot!
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If these Tennessee Onions added some ooey-gooey comfort to your meal, I’d love for you to share the recipe! Pin it, post it, or send it to a fellow home cook who needs a new side dish favorite. Don’t forget to tag #funcraftykitchen so I can drool over your cheesy creations!
