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If you’re looking for a show-stopping side dish that’s rich, savory, and utterly comforting, these Tennessee Onions are a must-try! Sweet onions are baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a buttery, crunchy topping for a dish that’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or family dinners. It’s simple to make but packed with flavor—guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: Just layer, bake, and enjoy!
- Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or weeknight dinners.
- Versatile: Pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a standalone comfort dish.
- Customizable: Add your favorite cheeses or toppings for a personal touch.
Ingredients
- 3 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia or Walla Walla), sliced into ¼-inch thick rings
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan works great)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional, for a crunchy topping)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the Onions
Peel the onions and slice them into rings about ¼-inch thick. Separate the rings and arrange them in the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly.
3. Layer the Ingredients
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the onion rings.
- Pour the heavy cream over the onions, making sure it covers them well.
- Scatter the butter cubes over the top of the onions.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the entire dish, ensuring the onions are fully covered.
4. Add the Crumb Topping (Optional)
For a crunchy, buttery topping, sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the cheese.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the onions are tender, the cheese is bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Choose Sweet Onions: Vidalia or Walla Walla onions are ideal for their mild, sweet flavor.
- Don’t Overlap Too Much: Arrange the onion rings in a single layer with slight overlap for even cooking.
- Use Room Temperature Cream: This helps the dish bake more evenly.
- Customize the Cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack, Gouda, or smoked cheddar for unique flavors.
Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe is super versatile! Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Add Bacon: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the top before baking for a smoky twist.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Herbaceous Touch: Mix in fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an herby flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the Ritz crackers or use a vegetarian-friendly alternative for the topping.
Serving Suggestions
These Tennessee Onions are the ultimate side dish! Here are some ways to enjoy them:
- With Grilled Meats: Serve alongside steak, ribs, or grilled chicken.
- BBQ Side: Perfect for potlucks, cookouts, or summer gatherings.
- Comfort Food Pairing: Enjoy with roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, or green beans.
- Holiday Favorite: Add this dish to your Thanksgiving or Christmas menu for a cheesy, crowd-pleasing side.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, but sweet onions are recommended for their mild flavor. Yellow or white onions can be used for a stronger taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish (without baking) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze Tennessee Onions?
While you can freeze them, the texture of the onions and cheese may change slightly upon reheating.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
These Tennessee Onions are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with sweet, tender onions. They’re easy to make, require minimal prep, and are always a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re serving them at a BBQ, holiday dinner, or weeknight meal, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Let’s Cook Together!
I’d love to hear how your Tennessee Onions turn out! Share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media with #LivelyDish. Happy cooking! 🧅✨