Name: Tennessee Onions with Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 3 to 4 Vidalia sweet onions, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 8 pats; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend (mozzarella, provolone, romano, asiago, Parmesan); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Tennessee Onions with Cheese take the simple sweetness of Vidalia onions and transform them into a rich, cheesy side dish that’s both comforting and irresistibly flavorful. Layers of golden, bubbling cheese coat tender baked onions seasoned with garlic, oregano, and butter—this is no ordinary side dish. It’s creamy, savory, and full of down-home Southern flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe turns basic ingredients into a dish that always draws compliments. Here’s why I keep it in my rotation:

No frying required—just bake and enjoy
Sweet onions melt into buttery, cheesy goodness
Super easy to prep and bake in under an hour
Pairs with everything from grilled meats to holiday roasts
Can be a crowd-pleasing side or a vegetarian main

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 to 4 Vidalia sweet onions, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 8 pats
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend (mozzarella, provolone, romano, asiago, Parmesan)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

I preheat my oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray for easy cleanup.
I slice the Vidalia onions into 1/4-inch thick rounds, keeping the rings intact, and lay them flat across the dish in a single layer.
I season the onions evenly with salt, garlic powder, and oregano.
I dot the top with pats of butter, distributing them so they melt evenly as the onions bake.
I sprinkle the Italian blend cheese, then cheddar, and finally the Parmesan over the onions to create a thick, melty layer of flavor.
I bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until the onions are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
I let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving, which helps the cheese set slightly and makes it easier to serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: Approximately 290 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper for a spicier version.
Crumbled cooked bacon between layers turns this into a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish.
For a lighter version, I replace half the cheese with herbed breadcrumbs tossed in olive oil.
I’ve served this over rice or with a fresh green salad as a vegetarian main dish—it’s always a hit.

Storage/Reheating

Store: I cover leftovers and refrigerate them for up to 3 days.
Reheat: I warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in a 300°F oven until hot and bubbly.
Freeze: I don’t recommend freezing due to the texture changes in the onions and cheese.

FAQs

What type of onions should I use?

I always go with Vidalia onions for their natural sweetness, but Walla Walla, Maui, or Texas Sweet onions are great substitutes.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely. I mix and match based on what I have—mozzarella, Gruyère, provolone, or even fontina work beautifully.

How do I keep the onion slices from falling apart?

I slice the onions thick and keep the rings intact, which helps them hold their shape while baking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I prep everything up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Then I bake it fresh when I’m ready to serve.

What should I serve with Tennessee Onions?

These are perfect with grilled steak, burgers, roast chicken, or even as a vegetarian centerpiece alongside bread and salad.

Conclusion

Tennessee Onions with Cheese are comfort food at its finest—simple, savory, and deeply satisfying. I always get requests for seconds when I serve this, and the best part is how easy it is to make with just a few pantry staples. Whether I’m hosting a barbecue or planning a holiday meal, this cheesy baked onion dish always steals the spotlight.