Description: A classic Southern side dish featuring sweet onions baked with butter, cheese, and a crisp breadcrumb topping. This comforting recipe is perfect for gatherings or a simple family meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia or Walla Walla), sliced into 1/4-inch rings
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that the onions soften perfectly and the topping becomes golden brown. While the oven is heating, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. The size of the dish is important because you want the onions to be in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Slice the Onions Carefully peel the sweet onions and slice them into rings about ¼ inch thick. Thicker slices may take longer to cook, while thinner slices can become too soft. Separate the rings as you slice, and discard any very small or oddly shaped pieces. You want to have uniform rings that will cook evenly in the baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese and Breadcrumb Mixture In a medium bowl, combine the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Mix these ingredients thoroughly so that the flavors are evenly distributed. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan provides a rich, savory taste, while the Panko breadcrumbs add a delightful crispness to the topping.
Step 4: Layer the Onions in the Baking Dish Arrange the sliced onion rings in a single layer in the greased baking dish. Make sure the rings are spread evenly across the bottom of the dish. If the onions are piled too high, they won’t cook evenly.
Step 5: Drizzle with Butter and Add the Cheese Topping Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the onion rings. The butter adds richness and helps the onions soften as they bake. Then, generously sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture over the onions, making sure to cover them completely. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Bake the Tennessee Onions Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on the dish towards the end of the baking time to ensure the topping doesn’t burn. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Garnish Once the Tennessee Onions are done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Why You Will Love This Recipe Tennessee Onions are incredibly comforting and flavorful, transforming simple ingredients into a dish that everyone will love. The sweetness of the onions perfectly complements the rich, cheesy topping and the crisp breadcrumbs add a delightful texture. This recipe is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a special side dish for a holiday meal or just want something cozy for a weeknight dinner, Tennessee Onions are a perfect choice. The combination of flavors and textures makes it an irresistible addition to any table, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled steaks, roasted chicken, pork chops, or barbecued ribs.
- Vegetarian Option: Pair with lentil loaf, mushroom Wellington, or a hearty vegetable stew.
- Holiday Meal: Include as part of your Thanksgiving or Christmas spread.
- Potlucks: Bring a dish of Tennessee Onions to your next potluck – they are always a hit!
- Sandwich or Burger Topping: Add a spoonful of Tennessee Onions to your favorite sandwich or burger for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips:
- Use Sweet Onions: For the best flavor, use sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla. These varieties have a mild, sweet taste that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
- Freshly Grated Cheese: Always use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the onion rings are arranged in a single layer in the baking dish. Overcrowding the pan can prevent the onions from cooking evenly and result in a soggy dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the onions after baking and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.
- Add Spice: For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Make Ahead: The onions can be sliced and arranged in the baking dish ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add the melted butter and cheese topping just before baking.
- Vary the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese. Smoked Gouda, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack are all delicious alternatives to cheddar.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Estimated, per serving. Varies based on specific ingredients and portion size.)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sodium: 400mg
Conclusion Tennessee Onions are more than just a side dish; they are a taste of Southern comfort. The combination of sweet onions, melted butter, sharp cheddar, and crispy breadcrumbs creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is easy to make, versatile, and sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of Tennessee Onions.
Questions and Answers about Tennessee Onions
Question 1: Can I make Tennessee Onions ahead of time? Answer: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. You can slice the onions and arrange them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate them until ready to bake. However, it’s best to add the melted butter and cheese topping just before baking to prevent the breadcrumbs from getting soggy. You can also fully bake the dish and reheat it later, but be aware that the breadcrumbs may lose some of their crispness.
Question 2: What are the best types of onions to use for this recipe? Answer: The best onions to use for Tennessee Onions are sweet onions, such as Vidalia or Walla Walla. These varieties have a mild, sweet flavor that caramelizes beautifully when baked. Yellow onions can also be used, but they have a stronger flavor than sweet onions. Avoid using red onions, as they have a more pungent taste that may not be as desirable in this dish.
Question 3: Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type of cheese? Answer: Yes, you can definitely substitute the cheddar cheese with another type of cheese. Smoked Gouda, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses can be used. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well and complements the sweetness of the onions.
Question 4: How can I make Tennessee Onions spicier? Answer: There are several ways to add spice to Tennessee Onions. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, or you can use a spicy cheese like pepper jack. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the onions before baking. For a more subtle heat, you can add a teaspoon of hot sauce to the melted butter before drizzling it over the onions.
Question 5: Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs for this recipe? Answer: Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many grocery stores now carry gluten-free breadcrumbs, or you can make your own by toasting gluten-free bread and then pulsing it in a food processor until it forms crumbs. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers or cereal as a substitute for breadcrumbs. Just make sure to check the ingredients list to ensure that all the components are gluten-free.
