Savor Southern Charm with Tennessee Onions! This recipe combines sweet Vidalia onions, a rich blend of Italian, cheddar, and parmesan cheeses, seasoned with garlic, oregano, and butter for a delectable side dish. Ready in 40 minutes, it’s a simple yet sumptuous addition to any meal.
Growing up in the heart of Tennessee, Sunday dinners were a sacred tradition. My grandmother, a culinary wizard, would whip up her legendary ‘Tennessee Onions.’ The aroma of sweet Vidalias melding with melted cheese and herbs would waft through the house, drawing everyone to the table. As a child, I was mesmerized by how a few simple ingredients transformed into a dish so comforting, it felt like a warm hug. Years later, armed with her recipe and a dash of nostalgia, I recreate this magic in my kitchen, each bite taking me down memory lane.
Why You’ll Love The “Tennessee Onions” Recipe
This ‘Tennessee Onions’ recipe stands out with its:
- Simplicity: Easy to prepare with readily available ingredients.
- Flavor Fusion: The sweet Vidalia onions paired with a trio of cheeses create a harmonious blend of sweet and savory.
- Versatility: Perfect as a side dish or a standalone treat, fitting for various occasions.
- Southern Authenticity: A genuine taste of Southern hospitality and comfort.
- Quick Preparation: From kitchen to table in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients Notes for “Tennessee Onions”
Welcome to the flavors of the South! Here’s what makes this dish special:
- Vidalia Onions: Their natural sweetness is the star of the show.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness without overpowering the onions.
- Cheeses: The blend of Italian, cheddar, and parmesan cheese provides a creamy, gooey texture and a depth of flavor.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Garlic powder and oregano infuse a subtle, earthy aroma.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of “Tennessee Onions” Recipe
Embark on a Culinary Adventure!
- Preheat and Prep: Start by getting your oven ready and prepping your baking dish.
- Onion Prep: Slice those sweet Vidalias, and let their natural beauty shine through in those perfect rings.
- Layer and Season: Arrange the onions, sprinkle the seasonings, and let every ring get its share of flavor.
- Butter Up: Dotting with butter is like adding little pockets of joy.
- Cheese Galore: Layer those cheeses generously for that irresistible melt.
- Bake to Perfection: Watch as the oven works its magic, turning ingredients into a golden, bubbly delight.
- Serve Warm: Capture the essence of Southern comfort by serving it warm.
Storage Options for “Tennessee Onions”
Preserving the Goodness:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container; they’ll be good for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the onions and cheese may change.
- Reheating: A quick stint in the oven or microwave will bring back that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Variations and Substitutions for “Tennessee Onions”
Twist it Up!
- Different Onions: Try with other onion varieties for a change in flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Swap out the cheeses for your favorites.
- Herb Mix-up: Experiment with different herbs to find your perfect match.
- Vegan Options: Use plant-based cheeses and butter for a vegan version.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of chili flakes for some heat.
Remember, the kitchen is your playground – don’t be afraid to experiment and make this Tennessee treasure your own! 🌟
Tennessee Onions
Ingredients
- Vidalia Sweet Onions 3-4 units: Ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and peeled.
- Unsalted Butter 4 tablespoons: To be used in its solid form.
- Salt 1 teaspoon: Adjust according to personal preference.
- Garlic Powder 1 teaspoon: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
- Oregano ½ teaspoon: Provides a hint of earthy, aromatic flavor.
- Italian Blend Cheese 1 cup: Finely shredded for uniform melting.
- Cheddar Cheese 1 cup: Finely shredded to complement the Italian blend.
- Parmesan Cheese ½ cup: Finely shredded, to be used as the final cheese layer.
Instructions
- Oven Preheating: Initiate the process by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Concurrently, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by coating it evenly with a non-stick cooking spray.
- Onion Preparation: Post cleaning and peeling, position the Vidalia onions on their sides. Proceed to slice them into rounds of approximately ¼ inch thickness.
- Separation of Onion Rounds: Post slicing, each round should be delicately separated into individual rings.
- Arrangement and Seasoning of Onion Rings: Lay the separated onion rings flat within the pre-coated baking dish. Follow this by evenly distributing the salt, garlic powder, and oregano over them.
- Butter Application: Divide the unsalted butter into approximately eight equal parts or pats. These should then be evenly placed atop the seasoned onion rings.
- Cheese Layering: Commence by evenly sprinkling the Italian blend cheese, followed by the cheddar cheese over the onion rings. Conclude this step by topping it with the finely shredded parmesan cheese.
- Baking Process: Transfer the baking dish into the preheated oven. Allow it to bake for a duration of 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cheese on top begins to brown and bubble.
- Serving: It is recommended to serve the dish promptly while it is still warm to ensure the best flavor and texture.
