Tennessee Onions Recipe | Cheesy Onion Casserole

PUBLISHED November 21, 2025· MODIFIED November 20, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1201 words. · About 7 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

Indulge in the savory sweetness of Southern cuisine with our Tennessee Onions recipe! If you’ve been yearning for a taste of the South, these caramelized Vidalia sweet onions will transport you to the heart of Tennessee with each delicious bite.

Why You’ll Love Them

Authentic Southern Taste. With a blend of sweet Vidalia onions and savory spices, these Tennessee Onions capture the essence of Southern comfort food.
Simple Ingredients. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Versatile. Serve these onions as a side dish, atop grilled meats, or as a flavorful addition to sandwiches and burgers.
Homemade Goodness. Experience the satisfaction of preparing a homemade dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

With the irresistible aroma of caramelized onions filling your kitchen, you’ll understand why Tennessee Onions are a beloved Southern classic.

What Are Tennessee Onions?

Tennessee onions are a savory and indulgent dish featuring caramelized onions topped with a rich cheese mixture.

They are named after the state of Tennessee but are enjoyed widely across the United States. The dish typically consists of sweet Vidalia onions or other sweet onion varieties that are caramelized until golden brown and tender.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients and their roles in making Tennessee Onions:

Vidalia Onions– These sweet onions are the star of the show.
Unsalted Butter- Serves as the cooking fat and adds richness and flavor to the onions as they caramelize.
Salt and Pepper- Enhances the natural sweetness of the Vidalia sweet onions and helps to draw out moisture, aiding in the caramelization process. It also balances the flavors in the dish.
Garlic Powder- Adds a savory depth of flavor to the Tennessee Onions. It infuses the dish with a subtle garlic essence without the need for fresh garlic, contributing to the overall aroma and taste.
Italian Seasoning– Enhances the flavor of the onions and balances the sweetness with savory.
Shredded Cheeses- Adds a sharp and tangy flavor to the Tennessee Onions. It also provides a creamy texture and enhances the overall richness of the dish.

How To Make Tennessee Onions

Preheat the oven. Heat your oven to 350°F.
Prepare the onions. Peel the onions and slice them into thick 1/2-inch rings. Separate the rings gently.
Layer the onions. Arrange the onion rings in a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them evenly across the bottom.
Season generously. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the onions. Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and Italian seasoning over the top.
Add the cheese. Layer the shredded cheeses evenly over the seasoned onions.
Bake. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Serve. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Tips And Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks for making delicious Tennessee onions:

Choose the Right Onions. Use Vidalia sweet onions or other sweet onion varieties for authentic Tennessee onions. Their natural sweetness enhances the flavor of the dish.
Slice Evenly. Slice the onions into uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. Thin slices will caramelize more quickly, while thicker slices may take longer to soften and brown.
Low and Slow Cooking. Caramelize the onions over low to medium heat to develop their natural sugars and achieve a deep golden brown color. Avoid cooking them too quickly, as this can result in uneven caramelization or burning.

Variations

Here are some tasty variations and twists you can try:

Spicy– Add a kick of heat by sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños over the caramelized onions before adding the cheese mixture. The spicy kick pairs well with the sweet onions and savory cheese.
Barbecue– Top the caramelized onions with barbecue sauce, shredded barbecue chicken or pork, and shredded cheese for a savory and satisfying barbecue-inspired variation.
Mushroom and Swiss- Saute sliced mushrooms with the onions until golden brown and tender. Layer the mushroom mixture over the caramelized onions and top with Swiss cheese for a rich and flavorful variation.

What To Serve With Tennessee Onions

Tennessee Onions are a versatile and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses and side dishes. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside them:

Grilled Meats– Tennessee Onions complement grilled meats such as steaks, chicken breasts, pork chops, or sausages. The sweet and savory flavors of the onions enhance the richness of grilled meats, creating a satisfying meal.
Burgers– Add them as a topping to burgers for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The caramelized onions provide sweetness and depth to the burger, making it a mouthwatering option for burger enthusiasts.
Barbecue– Serve this onion casserole alongside barbecue favorites like ribs, pulled pork, brisket, or smoked chicken. The sweet and savory profile of the onions pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of barbecue, creating a delicious contrast.
Sandwiches– Use them as a filling or topping for sandwiches and wraps. Whether it’s a steak sandwich, grilled cheese, or a chicken wrap, the caramelized onions add a burst of flavor and elevate the overall taste of the sandwich.

How Long Do They Last?

Cooked Tennessee Onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best flavor and texture, enjoy them within a few days of preparation.

Can You Freeze Them?

Tennessee onions can typically be stored in the freezer for up to 3 to 6 months without significant loss of quality. However, for the best taste and texture, try to consume them within a few months of freezing.

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