Tennessee Onions (Better than Onion rings)

Welcome to my food blog! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s a true game-changer for onion lovers: Tennessee Onions. These cheesy, baked onions are even better than traditional onion rings. Made with sweet Vidalia onions and a blend of flavorful cheeses, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tennessee Onions are a fantastic side dish or appetizer that will quickly become a family favorite. Unlike fried onion rings, these onions are baked to perfection with a melty, cheesy topping that adds a savory richness to the sweet Vidalia onions. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 3-4 Vidalia sweet onions
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust according to preference)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1 cup Italian blend cheese, finely shredded
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, finely shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded

Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Slice the Onions: Clean and peel the Vidalia sweet onions. Slice them into rounds approximately ¼ inch thick. Do not separate the rounds into individual onion rings.
4. Arrange the Onions: Spread the onion rounds evenly across the base of the prepared baking dish.
5. Season the Onions: Season the onion rounds with salt, garlic powder, and oregano.
6. Add Butter: Cut the butter into roughly eight even portions or pats. Distribute these butter pats evenly across the seasoned onion rounds in the baking dish.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the Italian blend cheese and cheddar cheese evenly over the onion rounds. Finish with a final topping of shredded Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the cheese is browned and bubbling.
9. Serve: For optimal taste, serve the dish promptly while it remains warm.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Knife and cutting board
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Measuring spoons

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the onions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help retain their crispiness.

Pairing Suggestions

Tennessee Onions pair wonderfully with grilled meats, burgers, or even as a standalone appetizer. For a refreshing drink pairing, consider serving them with a cold beer or a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of onion? A: While Vidalia onions are recommended for their sweetness, you can use other sweet onions like Walla Walla or Maui onions.

Q: Is there a way to make this dish healthier? A: To reduce the calorie content, you can use a reduced-fat cheese blend and less butter. Alternatively, use a light spray of olive oil instead of butter.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to the dish? A: Absolutely! Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme after baking can add a fresh touch. You can also add a layer of thinly sliced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.

Call to Action

I hope you enjoy making and savoring these Tennessee Onions as much as I do! If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!