Arrange evenly in prepared baking dish Recipe

If you’re searching for a side dish that stops conversation and brings everyone back for seconds, this Tennessee Onions recipe is a must-try. The magic happens when you arrange evenly in prepared baking dish layers of sweet onions, herbs, butter, and two kinds of melty cheese—infusing every bite with Southern comfort and irresistible flavor!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Tennessee Onions is in its simplicity! Each ingredient plays a starring role, building layers of flavor and gooey texture. Here’s what you’ll need, and why you don’t want to skip a thing:

• Cooking Spray: Essential for ensuring your onions don’t stick, so every caramelized layer scoops out beautifully.
• Sweet Onions (about 2 1/2 lbs., or 3 large): Their mild flavor turns silky and sweet in the oven—Vidalia or Walla Walla are fantastic choices.
• Dried Thyme: Brings subtle, earthy notes that balance the natural sweetness of the onions.
• Dried Parsley Flakes: For a pop of color and fresh, herbal brightness in every bite.
• Garlic Salt: An easy way to infuse garlicky, savory seasoning without extra chopping.
• Dried Oregano: Delivers a gentle Mediterranean undertone that plays beautifully with the cheeses.
• Dry Mustard: Adds a gentle sharpness and depth, enhancing the cheesy richness.
• Cayenne Pepper: Just a pinch wakes up all the flavors—don’t worry, it isn’t spicy-hot, just lively!
• Salted Butter: Melts into every nook of the onions, adding richness and helping them caramelize to perfection.
• Mild Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully for a creamy, classic layer of cheddar goodness.
• Smoked Gouda Cheese: Its smoky undertones give the dish depth and a hint of Southern BBQ flair.

Variations

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to put your own spin on it! Whether you’re working with what’s in your fridge or tweaking for special diets, a few simple swaps can make Tennessee Onions uniquely yours.

• Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or sharp cheddar for a fun flavor twist.
• Add Protein: Toss in cooked bacon crumbles or diced ham for a heartier, main-dish version.
• Make it Vegetarian: Use plant-based butter and your favorite dairy-free cheeses for a crowd-friendly side.
• Herb Upgrade: Sprinkle in fresh thyme or rosemary for a vibrant, aromatic punch.

How to Make Arrange evenly in prepared baking dish

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Give your 13- x 9-inch baking dish a thorough coating of cooking spray, making sure to hit every corner. This might seem simple, but it’s the key for a flawless release and those deeply golden, bubbly edges!

Step 2: Season the Onions

In a large mixing bowl, combine your thick-sliced sweet onion rings. Sprinkle in the thyme, parsley, garlic salt, oregano, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper. Using clean hands or a big spoon, toss everything together gently but thoroughly, so each onion ring is coated in herbaceous, savory goodness that will bake into every layer.

Step 3: Arrange Evenly in Prepared Baking Dish

Here’s where the transformation happens: arrange evenly in prepared baking dish all your seasoned onion rings, layering them so they’re evenly distributed and nestle cozily together. This ensures every slice cooks perfectly and every portion has a little bit of everything.

Step 4: Add Butter & Cheese

Take those cold butter slices and arrange them evenly over the onions—don’t worry if it looks like a lot, the butter bastes the onions as it melts. Next, sprinkle your shredded Cheddar and smoked Gouda all over the top so the whole dish is cloaked in cheesy goodness before it hits the oven.

Step 5: Bake, Cover, and Then Uncover

Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 40 minutes—this starts steaming the onions until they’re perfectly tender, while locking in all those flavors. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and return to the oven for around 30 minutes more, letting the cheese get golden brown and the edges irresistibly bubbly. Arrange evenly in prepared baking dish ensures not only a gorgeous look, but a wonderfully even texture!

How to Serve Arrange evenly in prepared baking dish

Garnishes

Before bringing Tennessee Onions to the table, shower the bubbling cheese top with fresh parsley, chives, or a dusting of smoked paprika for a burst of color and an extra pop of flavor. These simple garnishes don’t just make it pretty—they elevate each forkful!

Side Dishes

This dish plays so well with classic mains: barbecue ribs, fried chicken, grilled pork chops, or even steak. I also love arranging it evenly in prepared baking dish alongside mashed potatoes, green beans, or a cool, crisp salad to balance those rich, indulgent flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a little extra flair, spoon the onions into individual baking crocks or ramekins, arranging each portion evenly in prepared baking dish style. Try topping with crunchy fried onions or crispy bacon just before serving for an irresistible finishing touch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Tennessee Onions reheat beautifully! Simply cover and store any leftovers right in the baking dish, or transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making this a perfect make-ahead side for busy weeknights.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze leftover portions, arrange evenly in prepared baking dish and cool completely before wrapping tightly or storing in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, about 20–25 minutes. For a quicker option, individual servings can be microwaved in short bursts, but oven reheating preserves the best texture and that irresistible cheesy top.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Go ahead—treat yourself and your loved ones to the comforting goodness of Tennessee Onions. When you arrange evenly in prepared baking dish and let those simple ingredients mingle and melt, you’ll discover just how unforgettable this Southern classic can be. I can’t wait for you to experience that irresistible, golden, cheesy bite!

Print