Nina Johnson
Imagine the comfort of golden-baked onions, tender and sweet, wrapped in bubbling cheese with crispy edges. That’s exactly what Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions bring to the table. This dish is a Southern classic that transforms humble ingredients into a mouthwatering, cozy indulgence. Whether served as a hearty side or the unexpected hero of your dinner spread, it delivers rustic charm and irresistible flavor.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of pantry staples that, together, create something extraordinary. These onions become beautifully caramelized in the oven, while the cheese melts into every crevice, pulling into gooey strands with every bite. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself craving even before it’s out of the oven.
What Kind of Onions Work Best for Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions?
Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla are perfect for this recipe. Their natural sugars enhance the caramelization process, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture with a gentle sweetness that balances the richness of the cheese. If sweet onions aren’t available, yellow onions are a great substitute.
Ingredients for the Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions
Sweet Onions – The star of the show. Choose large, round, and firm onions for the best structure and flavor.
Butter – Adds a rich depth and helps with the softening and caramelization process.
Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the sweetness of the onions.
Garlic Powder – Brings a subtle savory layer that complements the sweetness of the onions beautifully.
Thyme (fresh or dried) – Offers a herby note that elevates the dish with its earthy aroma.
Cheese (Mozzarella & Gruyère or Swiss) – The melting duo. Mozzarella gives it that stretchy pull, while Gruyère or Swiss adds a nutty richness.
Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkled on top for a sharp kick and irresistible golden crust.
Heavy Cream (optional) – A splash added before baking can create a slightly saucier base, making it even more indulgent.
How To Make the Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions
Step 1: Prep the Onions
Peel and slice the onions into thick rings, about ½ inch wide. Keeping the rings intact helps them roast evenly and hold their shape during baking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Layer and Season
Arrange the onion rings in a buttered cast iron skillet or baking dish, slightly overlapping. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of thyme. Dot with small pieces of butter across the top.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and Gruyère (or Swiss) over the onions. If using, drizzle a few tablespoons of heavy cream around the edges to create a creamier texture.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. The onions should be tender and the cheese melted, bubbling, and lightly golden.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan
Remove the dish and immediately sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving, so the cheese settles and flavors meld.
Serving and Storing Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions
Serve these cheesy onions piping hot as a savory side to roasted meats, grilled sausages, or even as a main with crusty bread and a crisp green salad. The melted cheese and tender onions pair well with a variety of proteins and seasonal vegetables.
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals. For best texture, avoid freezing as the onions and cheese may become watery upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cheese can I substitute if I don’t have Gruyère?
Swiss cheese is a great alternative for Gruyère. You can also use Fontina or even a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor twist.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble everything except the Parmesan topping, cover, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Add the Parmesan right before baking.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
Not at all. The cream adds richness, but the dish is just as tasty without it. You can use a splash of milk or omit it completely.
Can I add meat to make it a main course?
Yes! Crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even ground sausage can be layered between the onions before baking to turn it into a heartier meal.
How do I keep the cheese from burning?
If the top is browning too quickly, tent the dish loosely with foil halfway through baking to protect the cheese while the onions finish softening.
Can I use red onions instead?
You can, but keep in mind that red onions are sharper and slightly less sweet. They’ll also give a deeper color to the final dish.
Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6 1x
- Category: Side Dish
Description
A comforting Southern classic, these cheesy baked onions are sweet, savory, and layered with melted goodness. Perfect as a hearty side or standalone indulgence, this dish turns simple ingredients into an irresistibly rich bite of homestyle flavor.
Ingredients
3–4 large sweet onions (Vidalia or similar)
2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried or fresh thyme
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and slice onions into ½-inch thick rings.
- Butter a cast iron skillet or baking dish and arrange onion rings, slightly overlapping.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
- Distribute butter pieces evenly over the onions.
- Top with mozzarella and Gruyère cheese. Drizzle with heavy cream if using.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until onions are tender and cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with Parmesan, and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
