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The mighty onion. It’s incorporated in nearly every savory dish that’s made in my kitchen and, if I’m honest, I almost always add more than the recipe calls for. Raw, sauteed, grilled, or baked, I cannot get enough of them. So when I came across this recipe where onions were finally the star of the show, I knew I had to give it a try. Allow me to introduce you to the fabulous Tennessee Onion Bake.
While I’m not sure exactly where the dish gets its name, I like to imagine that it’s a staple at summer BBQs and holiday get-togethers in the Volunteer State. What meal isn’t better with a healthy side of super cheesy onions?
Serve them on top of burgers or steak, beside pork chops, or add them to the Thanksgiving side dish lineup. There’s no wrong time for an easy dish as tasty as this one!
While this recipe only calls for a handful of ingredients and is about as simple as slicing and layering, it delivers a serious punch as far as flavor goes. You’ll start by slicing the sweet onions (we used Vidalia, which I’d highly recommend if they’re in season!) into rings and spreading them out in a prepared baking dish. From there, it’s all about the cheese! In this recipe, we used a mix of Italian blend and cheddar, but there’s really no way to go wrong with your cheese choice here. Asiago, Swiss, or even Gouda could be fun ones to try out for a different flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of cheesy, savory dishes, you’re going to fall head over heels for Tennessee Onions. This dish transforms the humble onion into a rich, flavorful side that’s sure to impress. It’s incredibly easy to make and pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 baking dish
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 3-4 sweet onions, we used Vidalia
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Turning the onion sideways, slice into ¼ inch rounds and separate the rings.
- Spread the onion rings in the baking dish and sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, and oregano.
- Slice the butter into approximately 8 pats and place them evenly across the dish.
- Sprinkle the Italian blend and cheddar cheese over the onions, then add the Parmesan on top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cheese is starting to bubble and brown.
- Serve while still hot!
Tips for Success
- For best results, use Vidalia onions if they’re in season. Their sweetness complements the cheese perfectly.
- Ensure your onion slices are even to promote uniform cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect flavor combination.
Additional Tips or Variations
Try adding some crispy bacon bits on top for an extra layer of flavor. You can also mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 7g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
What can I serve with Tennessee Onions?
They pair wonderfully with grilled meats like steak or chicken, or you can serve them as a side at your next BBQ.
Conclusion
Ready to bring a taste of Tennessee to your table with these delightful onions? They’re so simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them sooner. Give them a go at your next meal, and don’t forget to share your experience with us!
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