Tennessee Onions are a Southern comfort food classic—simple, savory, and packed with flavor. This dish features thick slices of sweet onions baked under layers of melted cheese, butter, and savory seasonings until bubbling and golden. It’s a rich, cheesy side dish that perfectly complements grilled meats, casseroles, or holiday spreads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tennessee Onions are unbelievably easy to prepare and require just a handful of pantry ingredients. The natural sweetness of the onions pairs beautifully with the salty, melty cheese and buttery goodness. Whether you serve it as a side dish, a topping for burgers, or even a warm dip with crusty bread, this recipe is always a hit. It’s crowd-pleasing, affordable, and full of classic Southern flavor.

ingredients

Tennessee Onions Recipe 10 Tennessee Onions are a Southern comfort food classic—simple, savory, and packed with flavor. This dish features thick slices of sweet onions baked under layers of melted cheese, butter, and savory seasonings until bubbling and golden. It’s a rich, cheesy side dish that perfectly complements grilled meats, casseroles, or holiday spreads.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sweet onions (such as Vidalia or yellow onions)
Butter
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Italian seasoning or dried thyme
Salt
Black pepper
Mozzarella cheese
Cheddar cheese
Monterey Jack cheese
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Peel and slice the onions into thick rings (about ½-inch thick).
Arrange the onion slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, slightly overlapping if necessary.
Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the onions.
Dot the onions with sliced or cubed butter across the top.
Layer shredded cheeses evenly over the seasoned onions, covering completely.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Add heat: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Add bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon on top adds smoky flavor and crunch.
Make it creamy: Add a few dollops of sour cream or cream cheese before baking for extra richness.
Low-carb topper: Use this dish as a cheesy topping for grilled chicken, steak, or burgers.
Switch up the cheese: Gouda, provolone, or fontina can be used for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the onions and cheese may lose texture when thawed.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot and bubbly.

FAQs

What are the best onions to use for this recipe?

Sweet onions like Vidalia or yellow onions are ideal for their mild, naturally sweet flavor.

Can I slice the onions thinner?

You can, but thicker slices hold up better during baking and provide a satisfying texture.

Do I need to cook the onions first?

No, they soften perfectly while baking in the oven under the cheese and butter.

What kind of cheese melts best for this recipe?

A mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and Monterey Jack offers a perfect balance of melt and flavor.

Can I make Tennessee Onions ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance, then bake when ready to serve.

Are Tennessee Onions spicy?

Not by default, but you can add spice with hot cheese, jalapeños, or chili flakes.

Can I use red onions?

Yes, red onions offer a slightly different flavor and more vibrant color, but are equally delicious.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly cheese.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Absolutely. A sprinkle of seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers adds a nice crunch.

What goes well with Tennessee Onions?

They pair well with grilled meats, barbecue, burgers, baked potatoes, or holiday roasts.

Conclusion

Tennessee Onions are proof that simple ingredients can come together to create something unforgettable. With their tender texture, cheesy topping, and savory seasoning, they’re a versatile side dish that brings Southern flair to any table. Whether for a casual cookout or a festive family meal, this easy baked onion casserole is sure to steal the spotlight.

Tennessee Onions Recipe