Ingredients
3 to 4 large Vidalia or sweet onions
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Peel the onions and slice them into thick rounds about 1 cm thick. Keep the rings as intact as possible.
Grease a baking dish with a little butter.
Arrange the onion slices in the dish in stacked layers or flat overlapping circles.
Seasoning
Sprinkle salt evenly over the onions.
Add garlic powder, paprika, oregano, and black pepper.
Dot the onions with small pieces of butter.
Cream and Cheese Layer
Pour the heavy cream slowly over the onions so it seeps between the layers.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Add mozzarella cheese over the cheddar.
Finish with Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.
Baking
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and continue baking for 15 to 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly and the onions are tender.
Finishing
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or burgers.
Can be served on toasted bread as a cheesy onion melt.
Great as a snack or appetizer.
Tips
Use sweet onions for best flavor.
For extra richness, add 2 tablespoons cream cheese between layers.
For crispy edges, broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end.
You can add cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions for variation.
Conclusion
Tennessee Onions are soft, creamy inside with a crispy, cheesy top. They are easier than onion rings, more flavorful, and perfect for family meals or gatherings. Simple ingredients create a rich and comforting dish that everyone loves.