Tennessee Onions (Better than Onion Rings!)
Ah, the simple joy of comfort food! Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the aroma of something warm wafting through the air, and the anticipation of gathering around the table with loved ones. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that brings all those heartwarming feelings together: Tennessee Onions! Better than onion rings, these golden-brown, cheesy delights are not only rich and creamy but oh-so-satisfying. Perfect as a cozy side dish or scrumptious appetizer, this easy weeknight dinner will become a staple on your table in no time. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A quick, easy recipe perfect for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
- Melted cheese on tender, sweet onions creates a buttery, indulgent treat.
- Made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing, perfect for get-togethers.
- Great for customizing with your favorite ingredients or toppings.
What You’ll Need
To create these mouthwatering Tennessee Onions, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Let’s Make It Together
Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Follow these step-by-step instructions for Tennessee Onions (Better than Onion Rings!):
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), filling your kitchen with warmth and the promise of something wonderful.
- Grease a baking dish generously to ensure those heavenly onions slide out effortlessly.
- Spread the thinly sliced onions evenly across the bottom of the dish — they’ll become irresistibly tender as they bake.
- Pour the melted butter lovingly over the onions, coating them in that rich, golden goodness.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, adding layers of flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
- Top everything off with your shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses — the more, the merrier!
- Slide the dish into your oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown, filling your home with its delightful aroma.
- Serve warm as a side or appetizer and watch your loved ones bask in the cozy bliss of this dish!
Delicious Variations to Try
While the original Tennessee Onions recipe is already a treat, you can elevate this dish with some exciting variations:
- Zesty Spicy Twist: Add some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a delightful kick that will make your taste buds dance.
- Crispy Topping: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist that complements the sweetness of the onions.
- Gourmet Blend: Substitute some of your cheeses with tangy goat cheese or creamy feta for a unique flavor profile.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
Here are a few of my best kitchen secrets to ensure your Tennessee Onions turn out perfectly every time:
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can slice the onions the night before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready!
- Slicing Tips: Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even onion slices, ensuring they cook evenly and become irresistibly tender.
- Leftover Storage: If you have any leftovers (though I doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best taste.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses or use a dairy-free alternative for a lighter twist.
Nutrition Information per Serving
Want to keep track of your cozy treats? Here’s what you can expect in terms of calories and nutrition for each serving:
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish
- Calories: 325
- Carbs: 27g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 550mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about making these Tennessee Onions? Here are some common questions answered:
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! Prepare your ingredients a day in advance, and assemble right before baking.
- Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your favorite cheeses or add-ins.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- How long does it last? These delicious onions are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a few days as mentioned above.
Wrapping It Up
Tennessee Onions (Better than Onion Rings!) is a recipe that’s not just about feeding the belly; it’s about creating memories and delighting your senses. The way those sweet onions become tender while soaking up the melted buttery cheesiness makes my heart sing! I hope this dish brings warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your table. Save this Tennessee Onions recipe to your cozy side dishes board so it’s ready when you need a comforting treat! Enjoy, my friends!
Tennessee Onions
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup butter, melted Use unsalted for better control of saltiness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish generously.
- Spread the thinly sliced onions evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Pour the melted butter over the onions.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Top with shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve warm as a side or appetizer.
