If you’ve never had the pleasure of indulging in Tennessee Onions, get ready for a culinary revelation that transforms humble sweet Vidalia onions into a gooey, flavorful masterpiece. This dish is all about layering tender, cheesy onion rings with a fragrant blend of spices and finishing it off with a bubbly, golden cheese crust. Tennessee Onions capture a perfect harmony of sweetness, savory spice, and melty cheese that will have you coming back for more, whether as a side or a star on your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Bringing Tennessee Onions to life is delightfully simple, thanks to a handful of everyday ingredients that each play a starring role. From the sweet base of Vidalia onions to the rich blend of cheeses and a carefully chosen seasoning mix, every item in this list adds depth, texture, or that irresistible aroma that sets this dish apart.

Cooking spray: Essential for greasing your baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

2 1/2 lb. sweet Vidalia onions (3 large or 4 medium), peeled: The star ingredient whose natural sweetness softens beautifully when baked.
1 tsp. dried parsley: Adds a gentle herbal note that brightens the overall flavor.

1 tsp. dry mustard: Brings subtle warmth and complexity to the seasoning blend.
1 tsp. garlic powder: Offers a savory background depth without overpowering the onions.

3/4 tsp. seasoned salt: Enhances all flavors while balancing sweetness and savoriness.
1/2 tsp. dried oregano: Infuses a mild Mediterranean earthiness to the dish.
1/2 tsp. kosher salt: Helps to elevate the natural sweetness of the onions.

1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle kick that livens up each bite.
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper: Complements the spices with a touch of pungency.
1 cup shredded mozzarella: Melts smoothly, creating a luscious, gooey texture.

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar: Provides a bold, tangy flavor that balances the sweeter elements.
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty finish and helps with browning.
4 tbsp. unsalted butter, cut into cubes: Ensures richness and moistens the onion layers as they bake.

Chopped fresh parsley, for serving: A fresh, colorful garnish that adds vibrancy and a hint of brightness.

How to Make Tennessee Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 13” x 9” baking dish with cooking spray. Then take each peeled Vidalia onion and slice it horizontally into rings about a quarter inch thick. Carefully separate the rings and restack them in the dish, starting with the largest rings at the bottom to recreate the onion’s natural shape. This meticulous stacking helps the onions cook evenly and look stunning when served.

Step 2: Mix the Seasonings and Cheese

In a small bowl, combine dried parsley, dry mustard, garlic powder, seasoned salt, dried oregano, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and freshly ground black pepper. This dynamic seasoning blend is what gives Tennessee Onions their signature flavor punch, balancing earthy, spicy, and savory notes. Next, toss together the shredded mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan in a medium bowl—this cheese trio will melt into an ooey-gooey topping you won’t want to miss.

Step 3: Season and Bake

Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the layered onions, then gently toss to ensure every ring is coated with flavor. Dot the top with cubes of unsalted butter, which will melt to keep your onions tender and luscious. Pour half a cup of water into the bottom of the pan to create steam during baking, and cover tightly with foil. Bake for 75 to 90 minutes until the onions are soft enough to pierce effortlessly with a fork—this slow baking brings out their natural sweetness and transforms their texture into pure comfort food.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Broil

Once the onions are tender, remove the foil and sprinkle the mixed cheeses evenly on top. Return to the oven to bake uncovered for another 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bubble. For that golden, slightly crispy cheese crust, switch your oven to broil and watch carefully as the cheese browns in just 1 to 2 minutes. This final step adds a rich, savory finish that makes Tennessee Onions truly irresistible.

How to Serve Tennessee Onions

Garnishes

Finish your Tennessee Onions with a sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley. Not only does it add a bright pop of color, but it also brings a mild, fresh flavor that complements the rich, cheesy baked onions perfectly. The parsley lightens each bite and makes the dish feel fresh and inviting.

Side Dishes

Tennessee Onions make a wonderful side for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a hearty steak. Their sweet and savory profile pairs beautifully with smoky or simply seasoned mains. Consider serving them alongside creamy mashed potatoes, cornbread, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded, crowd-pleasing meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving Tennessee Onions as a dip by baking the onions in a shallow dish and scooping out the tender rings with crusty bread or crackers. You can also break the layers apart for a deconstructed presentation as a warm, flavorful salad topper or a cheesy side loaded onto burgers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Tennessee Onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the dish even more delicious when reheated carefully. Just be sure to cover it well to avoid drying out the cheese topping.

Freezing

While Tennessee Onions are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of onions and cheese may slightly change after freezing but the flavors will remain comforting and rich.

Reheating

Reheat Tennessee Onions gently in a 325°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This slow reheating helps restore the cheese’s melty texture and keeps the onions tender. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the cheese rubbery and the onions watery.

FAQs

What kind of onions are best for Tennessee Onions?

Sweet Vidalia onions are the ideal choice because their natural sweetness and mild flavor balance the spices and cheese so well. Using other onions might change the dish’s overall sweetness and texture.

Can I make Tennessee Onions without cheese?

While cheese is a key component that creates the luscious topping, you could omit it for a lighter version. The onions and spices will still be flavorful but missing that ooey-gooey cheesy goodness that makes the dish so special.

How spicy are Tennessee Onions?

The cayenne pepper adds just a gentle kick that enhances but doesn’t overpower. If you prefer less heat, feel free to reduce or omit the cayenne without sacrificing the overall flavor profile.

Can this dish be made vegan?

To make a vegan version, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheeses that melt well. The spices and onions themselves are vegan, so the dish can easily be adapted.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Tennessee Onions keep well refrigerated and reheat beautifully, making them an excellent choice for prepping ahead for meals during the week.

Final Thoughts

Tennessee Onions are one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the South, brimming with comfort and flavor. Whether you’re introducing them to friends or indulging solo, they become an instant favorite that brightens any meal. Give this recipe a try—you’ll discover a new way to celebrate onions that’s nothing short of magical.