Tennessee Onions – A Southern Comfort Classic

Few dishes prove that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor quite like Tennessee Onions. This beloved Southern side dish is made with thick-sliced sweet onions, plenty of melted cheese, and butter—baked together until tender, bubbly, and irresistibly golden.

Despite the name, Tennessee Onions aren’t complicated or fancy. They’re rustic, comforting, and deeply satisfying. The onions soften into a mild, almost sweet base while the cheese forms a rich, gooey blanket on top. Every bite is savory, buttery, and perfect alongside grilled meats, holiday dinners, or weeknight comfort meals.

This recipe has become a staple at potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings because it’s easy to make and always disappears fast.

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Why You’ll Love Tennessee Onions

• Minimal ingredients
• Big, comforting flavor
• Easy prep and bake
• Crowd-pleasing side dish
• Naturally low-carb and gluten-free

If you love onions and cheese, this dish is pure magic.

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What Makes Tennessee Onions Special

Unlike caramelized onions that require long cooking times, Tennessee Onions bake quickly and gently. The oven transforms sweet onions into soft, mellow layers while the cheese melts into every crevice. Butter enhances richness, while simple seasonings keep the focus on the onions themselves.

It’s a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy—and incredibly versatile.

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Ingredients

• 3 large sweet onions (Vidalia or yellow), sliced ½-inch thick
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Layer the Onions
   Arrange onion slices evenly in the baking dish, separating rings slightly.
3. Season
   Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the onions.
4. Add Cheese and Butter
   Sprinkle cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly on top. Dot with butter pieces.
5. Bake
   Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
6. Serve
   Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish if desired.

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Tips for the Best Tennessee Onions

• Use sweet onions: Vidalia onions work best
• Slice evenly: Ensures uniform cooking
• Cover first: Helps onions soften without browning too quickly
• Finish uncovered: For a golden cheesy top

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Easy Variations

• Extra Cheesy: Add mozzarella or provolone
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños
• Herby: Add thyme or rosemary
• Crunchy Top: Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs for texture

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What to Serve with Tennessee Onions

This Southern favorite pairs perfectly with:

• Grilled steak or chicken
• Pork chops or barbecue
• Holiday ham
• Meatloaf
• Roasted vegetables

It works just as well for casual dinners as it does for special occasions.

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Make-Ahead & Storage

• Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 12 hours ahead and refrigerate
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers up to 3 days
• Reheating: Warm in oven for best texture

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A Southern Side Dish Everyone Loves

Tennessee Onions are proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you get a dish that’s warm, melty, and deeply satisfying.

Once you try them, they’ll quickly earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easy side dish that delivers big flavor, Tennessee Onions are the answer. Cheesy, buttery, and tender, they’re a Southern classic for a reason.

Simple. Comforting. Irresistible.