If you’re searching for a side dish that brings everyone to the table, look no further than Tennessee Onions. This delightful recipe combines the sweet, caramelized goodness of onions with a blanket of gooey cheese, creating a texture and flavor that is simply irresistible. Perfectly savory and cheesy, this dish will elevate any meal, from family gatherings to cozy winter evenings. Did you know that onions, when cooked properly, develop a sweet, savory flavor profile that perfectly complements cheese? This dish is the ultimate comfort food that is as simple to prepare as it is delicious. It’s sure to become a family favorite just like my popular creamy garlic mashed potatoes recipe. Trust me; the compliments will be pouring in!
What is Tennessee Onions – The Ultimate Cheesy Side Dish?
So, what’s the story behind the name “Tennessee Onions”? It sounds like an old southern delicacy, perhaps first made to impress attending diners at a barbecue joint. Or is it just a clever play on words? Either way, this dish proves that the way to a man’s heart is indeed through his stomach! Imagine crisp, caramelized onions smothered in melty cheese—what’s not to love? Serving this cheesy delight will surely bring smiles to your loved ones. Ready to give it a try? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Tennessee Onions – The Ultimate Cheesy Side Dish
First and foremost, Tennessee Onions serve as a sensational side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken to herb-seasoned fish. Plus, making this dish at home is a budget-friendly choice—no need for pricey restaurant tabs! Just think of all the savings while indulging in a comforting meal. Top it off with your favorite spices and herbs for that added oomph. It’s like enjoying restaurant-quality indulgence right in the comfort of your home! So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into cooking this delightful dish!
How to Make Tennessee Onions – The Ultimate Cheesy Side Dish
Quick Overview
Tennessee Onions is an easy and satisfying dish that features perfectly sautéed onions smothered in cheese. It’s all about getting that lovely caramelization and layer of gooey goodness! With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, you’ll have a fantastic side dish ready in no time.
Key Ingredients for Tennessee Onions – The Ultimate Cheesy Side Dish
Here’s what you will need to create the perfect Tennessee Onions:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced (preferably yellow or sweet onions)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (for a creamier texture, you can substitute with half-and-half)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnishing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Onions: Begin by thinly slicing the onions. Look for a nice uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté the Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine butter and olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions and season them with salt. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.
- Add the Cream: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to coat the onions well. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Layer the Cheese: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the onion mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a crispy top, broil it for an extra 2-3 minutes, just until golden.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot!
Top Tips for Perfecting Tennessee Onions – The Ultimate Cheesy Side Dish
- Onion Selection: Use sweet onions for a milder flavor or yellow onions for more depth. If you prefer a bit of bite, you can mix in some red onions too!
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with Gruyère or mozzarella for different flavors.
- Herb Sprinkles: Consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme while sautéing for an aromatic twist.
- Timing: Make sure to give the onions time to caramelize properly for that delicious flavor. Patience is key!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (if!), store the cooled Tennessee Onions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, simply bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and inviting again. Avoid microwaving it, as this may alter the texture.
Now that you have the complete rundown on making Tennessee Onions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and dive into this cheesy delight that will surely be the star of your next meal! Enjoy!
Tennessee Onions
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced Preferably yellow or sweet onions.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Can experiment with different cheeses.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a creamier texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnishing Optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by thinly slicing the onions, ensuring uniform thickness for even cooking.
Cooking
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine butter and olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions and season them with salt. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to coat the onions well. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the onion mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Optionally, broil for an extra 2-3 minutes for a crispy top.
Serving
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot.
Leave a Reply