Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side Dish Better Than Onion Rings
Tennessee Onions are the ultimate baked side dish when you’re craving something cheesy, savory, and comforting. Unlike traditional onion rings that rely on deep frying, this version uses the oven to gently caramelize sweet onions beneath layers of melted cheese and buttery seasoning. The result is a bubbling, golden masterpiece that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether served next to grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a dip with crusty bread, this Southern-inspired dish is always a crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for gatherings, family dinners, and everything in between.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Ingredients
- 3–4 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla), sliced into ¼ to ½-inch thick rings
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, for heat
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
- Peel and slice the sweet onions into rings, ¼–½ inch thick. Separate the rings and layer them evenly in the baking dish.
- Season the onions with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add red pepper flakes if using.
- Distribute the butter cubes evenly across the seasoned onions. They will melt and help soften the onions while baking.
- Sprinkle the cheeses—cheddar and Monterey Jack—generously over the entire surface, ensuring all onions are covered.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the cheese is fully melted and beginning to brown.
- For extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove from oven and let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Use sweet onions for best flavor; they mellow and caramelize as they bake.
You may substitute cheeses with other melty varieties like mozzarella or Colby Jack.
For extra richness, add a layer of cooked turkey bacon or chicken ham before baking.
Slice leftovers into portions before refrigerating or freezing for easier reheating.
Dish can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving.