Tennessee Onions (Better than Onion Rings)
Tennessee Onions are a cheesy baked onion dish featuring sweet Vidalia onions layered under a savory blend of Italian cheese, cheddar, and Parmesan, then baked until golden, bubbly, and irresistibly flavorful. Easier than onion rings and perfect for weeknight dinners, cookouts, or entertaining, this Tennessee onions recipe delivers Southern comfort with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 45–50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3–4 Vidalia sweet onions
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 cup Italian blend cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Peel and slice onions into ¼-inch rounds, keeping rings intact. Arrange evenly in the prepared dish.
- Season with salt, garlic powder, and oregano.
- Cut butter into small pats and scatter over the onions.
- Sprinkle Italian blend, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve hot while the cheese is melty and gooey.
Notes
- Use other sweet onions like Walla Walla or Maui if Vidalia isn’t available.
- Add red pepper flakes for a mild kick.
- Mix cream cheese into the shredded cheese for extra richness.
- Layer sliced tomato or bell pepper for added flavor and color.
- Top with fresh parsley or thyme after baking for a fresh finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
