Tennessee Onions (Better than Onion rings)

Welcome to my food blog! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s a true game-changer for onion lovers: Tennessee Onions. These cheesy, baked onions are even better than traditional onion rings. Made with sweet Vidalia onions and a blend of flavorful cheeses, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tennessee Onions are a fantastic side dish or appetizer that will quickly become a family favorite. Unlike fried onion rings, these onions are baked to perfection with a melty, cheesy topping that adds a savory richness to the sweet Vidalia onions. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 3-4 Vidalia sweet onions
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust according to preference)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1 cup Italian blend cheese, finely shredded
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, finely shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded

Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Slice the Onions: Clean and peel the Vidalia sweet onions. Slice them into rounds approximately ¼ inch thick. Do not separate the rounds into individual onion rings.
4. Arrange the Onions: Spread the onion rounds evenly across the base of the prepared baking dish.
5. Season the Onions: Season the onion rounds with salt, garlic powder, and oregano.
6. Add Butter: Cut the butter into roughly eight even portions or pats. Distribute these butter pats evenly across the seasoned onion rounds in the baking dish.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the Italian blend cheese and cheddar cheese evenly over the onion rounds. Finish with a final topping of shredded Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the cheese is browned and bubbling.
9. Serve: For optimal taste, serve the dish promptly while it remains warm.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Knife and cutting board
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Measuring spoons

Tips and Shortcuts

• Cheese Mix: If you can’t find Italian blend cheese, make your own by mixing equal parts of Mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, and Provolone.
• Butter Distribution: Ensure even distribution of butter pats to avoid dry spots in the dish.
• Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more garlic powder or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the onions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help retain their crispiness.

Pairing Suggestions

Tennessee Onions pair wonderfully with grilled meats, burgers, or even as a standalone appetizer. For a refreshing drink pairing, consider serving them with a cold beer or a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of onion? A: While Vidalia onions are recommended for their sweetness, you can use other sweet onions like Walla Walla or Maui onions.

Q: Is there a way to make this dish healthier? A: To reduce the calorie content, you can use a reduced-fat cheese blend and less butter. Alternatively, use a light spray of olive oil instead of butter.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to the dish? A: Absolutely! Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme after baking can add a fresh touch. You can also add a layer of thinly sliced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.

Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.

Call to Action

I hope you enjoy making and savoring these Tennessee Onions as much as I do! If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!

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