Tennessee Onions

Tennessee onions is an old-fashioned onion casserole unlike any side dish you’ve had before. This dish transforms sweet Vidalia onions into a tender, flavorful side that is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a comforting touch. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, Tennessee onions will surely stand out on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The sweetness of Vidalia onions combined with spices creates a unique taste experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside meats or as a standalone vegetarian option at your next gathering.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Its creamy texture and golden top make it visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and simply bake when ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Tennessee onions dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking process and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking spray
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of the onions.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows for easy tossing of the ingredients without mess.
• Cooking spray: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze after baking.
• Aluminum foil: Using foil helps retain moisture during the initial baking phase for tender onions.

Ingredients

For the Onion Mixture

• Cooking spray
• 2 1/2 lb. sweet onions (about 3 large onions), sliced crosswise into 1/4-in.-thick slices and separated into rings
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• 1 tsp. dried parsley flakes
• 1 tsp. garlic salt
• 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp. dry mustard
• 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

For Topping

• 1/4 cup salted butter, cut into 1/4-in.-thick pieces
• 4 oz. mild Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)

How to Make Tennessee Onions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 13- x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Onions

• Place the sliced onions in a large mixing bowl.
• Sprinkle with dried thyme, parsley flakes, garlic salt, oregano, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper.
• Toss gently to coat all the onion rings evenly with spices.

Step 3: Arrange in Baking Dish

Arrange the seasoned onion mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Add Butter and Cheese

• Evenly distribute the pieces of salted butter over the top of the onions.
• Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese generously over the onion layer.

Step 5: Bake Until Tender

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven until the onions are soft and bubbly around the edges, about 40 minutes.

Step 6: Broil for Golden Top

Remove the foil from the baking dish. Continue baking at 350°F until the top is golden brown, approximately another 30 minutes.

Now you have a delicious serving of Tennessee onions ready to delight your guests! Enjoy this savory side dish that brings comfort to any meal.

How to Serve Tennessee Onions

Tennessee onions make a delightful addition to any meal and can be served in various ways. This rich and flavorful onion casserole pairs well with many dishes, making it a versatile side for gatherings or family dinners.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken for a balanced meal. The sweetness of the onions complements the savory flavors of the meat.
• Beef: A juicy steak pairs beautifully with Tennessee onions, adding a rich layer of flavor to your plate.

Accompany with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad enhances the richness of the casserole. Use a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad offer an excellent texture variation alongside the soft onions.

Include as Part of a Buffet

• Potato Bar: Set up a potato bar with baked potatoes and toppings. Tennessee onions can be a delicious topping option that guests will love.
• Pasta Station: Offer pasta with various sauces. The casserole can serve as an interesting side that adds depth to each dish.

How to Perfect Tennessee Onions

Achieving the perfect Tennessee onions requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Sweet Onions: Choose sweet Vidalia onions for their natural sweetness, which enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Layer Properly: Arrange the onion rings evenly in the baking dish to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your casserole during baking. Overcooking can lead to caramelization that may overpower other flavors.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Cheddar is traditional, try adding other cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for more complexity.
• Finishing Touches: For added crunch, consider sprinkling breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before the final bake.

Best Side Dishes for Tennessee Onions

Tennessee onions pair well with a variety of side dishes, creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Assorted seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add color and nutrition to your meal.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs complement the softness of the onion casserole beautifully.
3. Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread brings a hint of sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with vegetables offers a healthy contrast to Tennessee onions.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni and cheese brings comfort food vibes that harmonize wonderfully with onion flavors.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds freshness while providing essential nutrients without overpowering other tastes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tennessee onions, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch for.

• Not slicing onions evenly: If the onion slices are uneven, they will cook inconsistently. Make sure to slice them uniformly into 1/4-inch thick rings.
• Skipping the seasonings: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Always sprinkle thyme, parsley, garlic salt, oregano, mustard, and cayenne pepper generously over the onions before baking.
• Not covering while baking: Leaving the dish uncovered can lead to dry onions. Cover with aluminum foil during the first part of baking to keep moisture in.
• Overbaking after removing foil: Once you remove the foil, keep an eye on your casserole to prevent burning. Bake until just golden on top for a perfect finish.
• Using the wrong cheese: The type of cheese can alter the taste significantly. Stick to mild Cheddar or similar cheeses for a rich flavor without overpowering the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tennessee Onions

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Tennessee onions can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tennessee Onions

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place in a covered dish and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Tennessee Onions?

Tennessee onions are a flavorful onion casserole made primarily with sweet Vidalia onions and various seasonings. They make an excellent side dish that pairs well with many meals.

Can I use regular onions instead of Vidalia onions?

While Vidalia onions add sweetness, you can use any sweet onion variety for similar results. Just adjust seasonings if you use stronger types.

How do I customize my Tennessee Onions?

Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses based on your preference.

Are Tennessee Onions healthy?

Yes! This dish is primarily made of onions and has moderate amounts of cheese and butter. You can reduce butter or use healthier alternatives for a lighter version.

How long does it take to prepare Tennessee Onions?

The total preparation and cooking time is about 80 minutes, including both baking stages.

Final Thoughts

Tennessee onions offer a delightful blend of flavors that elevate any meal as a versatile side dish. This recipe allows for numerous customization options, making it easy to adapt according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Try out this old-fashioned casserole today!