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Tennessee Onions Recipe

4.7 from 143 reviews

This Tennessee Onions recipe features thickly sliced sweet onions seasoned with Italian seasoning, dry mustard, cayenne, and paprika, then baked with butter and a rich blend of sharp cheddar and gouda cheeses. The result is a flavorful, tender, and cheesy onion side dish perfect for complementing any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Onions and Seasonings

  • 3 pounds sweet onions
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Butter and Cheese

  • 4 tablespoons salted butter, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded gouda cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the onions evenly.
  2. Prepare Onions: Slice the sweet onions into thick slices about 1/4 inch thick to promote even cooking. Toss the sliced onions with Italian seasoning, dry mustard, cayenne, and paprika, ensuring they are well coated. Transfer the seasoned onions to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  3. Add Butter and Cheese: Evenly distribute the cubed salted butter across the onions. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar and gouda cheeses over the top to create a rich, cheesy layer.
  4. Initial Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to retain moisture and bake the onions for 30 minutes at 375°F, allowing them to soften and the flavors to meld.
  5. Final Bake: Remove the foil carefully and continue baking the onions for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the onions reach your desired tenderness and the cheese is fully melted and slightly browned on top.

Notes

  • Use sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla for the best natural sweetness.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to taste for a milder or spicier dish.
  • Covering with foil initially traps steam to help soften the onions without drying.
  • For extra crispiness, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be served as a flavorful vegetarian side.

Keywords: Tennessee Onions, baked onions, cheesy onions, sweet onions recipe, southern side dish