Tennessee Onions (Better Than Onion Rings!)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a game-changer. The natural sweetness of Vidalia (or other sweet) onions melds beautifully with melted cheese and butter, resulting in something creamy, flavorful, and irresistibly tender—perfect for holidays, BBQs, or anytime comfort food calls.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Texas sweet work best)

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Peel the onions and slice into rounds about ¼-inch thick, then gently separate them.

3. Arrange the onion rings evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.

4. Dot the onions with thin pats of butter.

5. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and thyme (if using), then spread this mixture evenly over the onions.

6. Sprinkle the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

7. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until golden, bubbling, and irresistibly cheesy. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end if desired.

8. Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8–10 servings. The total cook time is around 40–45 minutes, plus prep time of approximately 10–15 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a preheated oven at around 350°F until heated through—this helps the texture stay more like fresh-baked.

FAQs

1. What onions can I use if Vidalia onions are unavailable?

You can substitute other sweet onions such as Walla Walla or Maui—though Vidalia onions bring natural sweetness and are highly recommended.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead and bake right before serving. Just be mindful the onions may soften and lose some texture over time.

3. Can I make substitutions for mayo to lighten this recipe?

You could try Greek yogurt or a lighter mayo alternative, but this may alter the classic creamy richness.

4. Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

5. Can I add other ingredients for flavor?

Yes! Some versions include spices like dry mustard, oregano, or even a sprinkle of brown sugar for depth of flavor.

6. What dishes pair well with Tennessee Onions?

They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, steaks, burgers, roast dinners, or can even top pizzas and sandwiches.

7. Can I broil the top for extra browning?

Yes—after baking, broil for 1–2 minutes while watching carefully to avoid burning.

8. How to serve for gatherings?

Serve directly from the baking dish; it’s a great potluck-style side and keeps warm on a buffet.

9. What do these onions taste like?

Expect cheesy, buttery, sweet, and savory—like French onion soup reinvented as a casserole.

10. Can leftovers be crisped up again?

Yes—reheat in the oven or air fryer to revive the texture.

Conclusion

Tennessee Onions offer a delightful twist on traditional sides—boldly flavorful, effortlessly cheesy, and warming to the soul. Whether you’re looking to impress at a festive meal or simply upgrade your weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

Tennessee Onions (Better Than Onion Rings!)

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

A mouthwatering casserole that transforms sweet onions into a cheesy, buttery, and seasoned side dish—so addictive it might replace onion rings on your menu.

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8–10 servings

Ingredients

3 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Texas sweet)

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup mayonnaise

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel onions and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds; gently separate the rings.
3. Arrange onion rings evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Dot onions with thin pats of butter.
5. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and thyme (if using); spread evenly over onions.
6. Sprinkle cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
7. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until golden and bubbling. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end if desired.
8. Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

• Vidalia onions are best, but Walla Walla or Maui can be substituted.
• Can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving.
• Greek yogurt or light mayo can be used for a lighter version, though flavor will differ.
• Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.

• Author: Julia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 55mg