Tennessee Onions are a Southern classic that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of sweet onion goodness. This easy-to-make side dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just as a comforting addition to any meal. Baked to golden perfection, the sweet onions become soft and tender, enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce that’s irresistible. The best part? It’s as simple as layering, mixing, and baking—no fancy techniques required.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla), peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/4 inch thick)

• 1/2 cup butter (melted)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Layer onions: Place the sliced onions evenly in a baking dish.

3. Make the cheese sauce: In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

4. Assemble: Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the onions in the baking dish.

5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly and golden brown on top.

6. Serve: Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrients

(Per 1/6 of the dish – approximate values)

• Calories: 320

• Fat: 25g (12g saturated, 10g unsaturated)

• Sodium: 450mg

• Carbohydrates: 15g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 8g

• Protein: 8g

• Cholesterol: 45mg

Why Tennessee Onions are a Must-Try

Tennessee Onions are beloved for their comforting combination of flavors and textures. The sweet onions—Vidalia or Walla Walla are great choices—become tender as they bake, releasing their natural sweetness and softening in the creamy cheese sauce. The mixture of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the mayonnaise and sour cream lend creaminess and a slight tang that balances the dish.

The garlic powder, salt, and pepper provide just the right seasoning, making this side dish flavorful without being overpowering. It’s the kind of dish that’s hearty enough to stand alone but also pairs wonderfully with meats, salads, or other sides.

The Sweet Onions: Key to the Flavor

Onions are the star of this dish, so using the right kind is crucial. Vidalia onions, famous for their sweetness, are the perfect choice for Tennessee Onions. Their mild, sweet flavor becomes even more pronounced as they cook, softening and adding a natural sweetness to the dish that balances beautifully with the creamy, cheesy sauce.

If you can’t find Vidalia onions, Walla Walla onions are another great option, also known for their sweetness. The key is to use sweet onions—this will ensure the dish’s flavor is balanced and not overly pungent.

The Cheese Sauce: Creamy and Irresistible

The heart of Tennessee Onions is the creamy, cheesy sauce that envelops the tender onions. The combination of cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese gives the dish both a sharp flavor and a soft, melty texture. The cheddar adds a bit of tang and depth, while the mozzarella brings stretchiness and a mild creaminess.

Mayonnaise and sour cream work together to create a luscious base for the sauce. The mayonnaise adds richness, while the sour cream offers a slight tanginess that cuts through the richness of the cheese, preventing the dish from becoming too heavy.

The addition of garlic powder helps to bring out the savory depth of the onions and cheese, while the salt and black pepper round out the flavor without overpowering it. The result is a perfectly balanced, creamy, cheesy sauce that complements the sweet onions beautifully.

Simple and Quick to Prepare

Tennessee Onions are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a great option for both busy cooks and those looking for a simple yet indulgent side dish.

1. Layer the onions: Start by peeling and slicing the onions into thin rings (about 1/4 inch thick). Spread them evenly in a baking dish, ensuring they cover the bottom in a single layer.

2. Make the cheese sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.

3. Assemble the dish: Spread the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the onions, ensuring that the onions are well coated in the sauce.

4. Bake to perfection: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes at 350°F, until the cheese sauce is bubbly and golden brown on top. The onions will soften, and the sauce will thicken, creating a deliciously creamy and golden crust.

5. Rest and serve: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set and make it easier to scoop.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Tennessee Onions are incredibly versatile and make an excellent side dish for nearly any meal. Here are some ideas for pairing them:

• Grilled meats: Serve alongside grilled steaks, chicken, or pork chops for a hearty and comforting meal.

• Barbecues: They’re perfect for a barbecue or cookout, complementing smoky meats and tangy sides.

• Holiday dinners: Serve this dish at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering as a delicious and indulgent side.

• Potlucks and family gatherings: Because it’s easy to make and serves a crowd, Tennessee Onions are perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any get-together.

Customizing the Recipe

Tennessee Onions are highly customizable based on your tastes. Here are a few ideas to make this dish your own:

• Add herbs: Sprinkle some fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley on top before baking for extra flavor and color.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for some heat.

• Cheese variations: Mix up the cheese selection by adding a little Parmesan for extra flavor or using all mozzarella for a milder, gooier result.

• Add bacon: For a smoky flavor, mix in some crumbled cooked bacon with the onions before adding the cheese sauce.

A Dish That Will Be Loved by All

Whether you’re serving it at a big family dinner or enjoying it as a comforting side with a weeknight meal, Tennessee Onions are sure to be a hit. The creamy, cheesy sauce and sweet, tender onions come together in a dish that’s satisfying, comforting, and full of flavor. And with minimal prep and only a few ingredients, it’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

Conclusion

Tennessee Onions are the ultimate Southern comfort food that everyone will love. With their creamy, cheesy sauce and tender, caramelized onions, they’re the perfect addition to any meal. The best part is that they’re simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort for a dish that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, these onions are sure to impress!