Description
Tennessee Onions is a savory baked side dish featuring thickly sliced sweet onions smothered in butter and a rich blend of Italian herbs and cheeses. This comforting casserole transforms simple onions into a golden, bubbly, and cheesy delight that rivals traditional onion rings with a creamy, melty twist.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet onions (Vidalia or yellow), sliced ½ inch thick
- 4 tablespoons butter, cut into small pats
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly butter a baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Arrange Onions: Place the ½-inch thick onion slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, ensuring even coverage for consistent cooking.
- Season and Butter: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly over the onions. Dot the top with small pats of butter to enhance richness and aid in caramelization.
- Add Cheeses: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the onions, then layer the provolone slices on top. Finish by topping with grated Parmesan cheese for a flavorful crust.
- Bake: Bake the dish uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling, and the onions are tender.
- Optional Broil: For an extra crispy and golden top, broil the dish for 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the baked onions to rest for 5 minutes before serving so the cheese sets slightly and the flavors meld.
Notes
- Use sweet onions like Vidalia or yellow for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste; a pinch of cayenne can add a spicy kick if desired.
- Broiling is optional but recommended for a crispier cheese topping.
- This dish pairs well as a side for grilled meats, burgers, or roasted chicken.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Southern
