why make this recipe

Tennessee Onions are a delightful side dish that brings a sweet and savory flavor to any meal. They are simple to prepare and make great use of Vidalia onions, known for their mild sweetness. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even just a cozy dinner at home. It combines the rich taste of melted cheeses with tender onions, creating a comforting and delicious experience.

how to make Tennessee Onions

Ingredients:

3-4 Vidalia sweet onions
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp oregano
1 cup Italian blend cheese, finely shredded
1 cup cheddar cheese, finely shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Slice the Vidalia onions into ¼ inch thick rounds.
Spread the sliced onions evenly in the baking dish.
Season the onions with salt, garlic powder, and oregano.
Place pats of butter over the onions.
Sprinkle the Italian blend cheese, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, until the cheese is browned and bubbly.
Serve warm and enjoy!

how to serve Tennessee Onions

Tennessee Onions can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or with a fresh salad. They also work well at dinner parties and can be a great addition to a buffet spread. Serve them straight from the oven while they are still warm and cheesy for maximum flavor!

how to store Tennessee Onions

To store any leftovers of Tennessee Onions, let them cool completely and transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the oven until warmed through or microwave in short intervals until hot.

tips to make Tennessee Onions

Make sure to slice the onions evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
You can adjust the amount of cheese according to your preference; just be careful not to overwhelm the onion flavor.
For added depth, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.

variation (if any)

Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. You can also swap out the cheeses for your favorites or use a spicy cheese blend to change things up.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular onions instead of Vidalia onions?
Yes, you can use regular onions, but they may have a sharper flavor. Vidalia onions give a sweeter taste, which is ideal for this dish.

2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can slice the onions and layer the ingredients in the baking dish a day ahead. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator, then bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your cheese blend does not contain any gluten. Always check the labels of any pre-packaged cheese.