Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions

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Golden, bubbling, and irresistibly aromatic—Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions are the Southern comfort food you never knew you needed. This humble dish transforms sweet, tender onions into a rich, cheesy marvel that melts in your mouth. Baked until the cheese forms a golden crust, each slice releases layers of savory goodness and a hit of buttery bliss. It’s the kind of side dish that steals the spotlight from the main course.

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in, these onions blend minimal ingredients with maximum flavor. Their charming presentation, like rosettes of caramelized layers nestled in cheese, elevates even a weeknight meal. Whether paired with grilled meats or served alongside a hearty casserole, this dish delivers heartwarming satisfaction with every forkful.

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Ingredients for this Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions Recipe

• 4 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla), peeled and thickly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Optional: a sprinkle of Parmesan or Gruyère for added flavor

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Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Onions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the onions into thick rounds, about ½ inch each. Carefully separate the slices into rings, keeping some larger rings intact for that signature rosette effect.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions Lightly

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion rings and sauté for 5-7 minutes, just until they begin to soften and develop a bit of color. Season with salt and pepper. You’re not looking to fully cook them—just a gentle kiss of heat to enhance their sweetness.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Grease a cast iron skillet or baking dish. Begin arranging the onion rings vertically or stacked loosely in spirals. Sprinkle the thyme evenly over the onions.

Step 4: Cheese It Generously

Mix the mozzarella and cheddar together. Stuff bits of the cheese blend between the rings and over the top of the onions for full coverage. Dot with butter pieces to boost richness.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Bake

Drizzle the heavy cream evenly across the onions and cheese. If you’re adding Parmesan or Gruyère, sprinkle it on now. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Step 6: Uncover and Brown

Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is bubbly and beautifully golden. The edges of the onion rosettes should be slightly crisp.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Let it rest for 5 minutes out of the oven before serving. This gives the cheese a chance to set slightly, making it easier to serve clean slices.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I slice the onions for this recipe?

Use a sharp knife to cut the onions into thick rings, about ½ inch thick. Keeping the rings somewhat intact helps them bake into a beautiful rosette pattern.

Can I use other types of onions?

Yes, but sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla are ideal for their natural sugar content, which caramelizes beautifully when baked.

What cheese substitutions work well?

While mozzarella and cheddar are classic, you can experiment with Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any cheese used doesn’t include additives with gluten.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Certainly! A sprinkle of seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can add a delightful crunch. Add them during the final 15-20 minutes of baking.

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