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Baked Tennessee Onions Recipe

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4 from 282 reviews

Baked Tennessee Onions is a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring layers of sweet Vidalia onions coated in a rich blend of spices, buttermilk, and a decadent mix of sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Baked to bubbly golden perfection with butter, this dish is perfect for pairing with smoked meats or serving as a standalone vegetarian treat.

Ingredients

Spices

  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¾ teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large Vidalia onions (about 3 pounds), peeled and cut into ¼ inch slices
  • ¼ cup buttermilk or heavy cream

Cheese and Butter

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes plus more for greasing the baking dish

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish generously and set it aside for later use.
  2. Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dry mustard powder, and cayenne pepper thoroughly.
  3. Prepare Onions: Place the sliced Vidalia onions in a large mixing bowl and add the buttermilk or heavy cream. Toss gently to coat the onion slices evenly with the cream. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the onions and toss again to distribute the spices uniformly.
  4. Layer the Ingredients: Spread about half of the spiced onions evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the onions. Repeat with the remaining onions and cheddar cheese. Finish by sprinkling the freshly grated parmesan on top, then dot with cubes of unsalted butter.
  5. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the onions to soften and the flavors to meld.
  6. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for an additional 30 minutes. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top, signaling the dish is cooked through and beautifully caramelized.
  7. Rest and Serve: Let the baked onions cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly minced parsley or chives if desired for added color and freshness.

Notes

  • If using white or yellow onions instead of Vidalia, add up to 2 teaspoons of brown sugar to the spice mixture to enhance sweetness.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting texture and flavor.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly for best results. Microwaving is acceptable for single portions but does not maintain the cheesy topping as well.

Find it online: https://deliciousyum.com/baked-tennessee-onions-recipe/