Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must are not just a baked side dish; they are a celebration of flavor and comfort. This Southern cheesy onion dish combines sweet onions with layers of rich cheese and spices, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal, these cheesy onions will surely be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must

This dish is a delightful twist on traditional onion rings and offers a unique blend of flavors. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:

Rich, cheesy flavor that satisfies cravings.
Easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
Versatile as a side dish or an appetizer.
Uses simple ingredients you likely have at home.
Perfect for gatherings—your friends and family will love it!
A great vegetarian option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Heavenly aroma while baking, filling your home with warmth.
Pairable with various main dishes, enhancing your meals.

This baked cheesy onions recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food!

Ingredients for Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must

Gather these items:

Sweet onions (like Vidalia or Walla Walla, or yellow onions)
Sharp cheddar cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
Butter (or olive oil for a non-dairy option)

How to Make Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Peel and slice the onions into thick rings, about 1/2 inch wide. Soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes if you want them to be extra sweet.
Step 3: In a bowl, combine shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika. Mix well until the cheeses are evenly coated with the seasonings.
Step 4: Take each onion ring and dip it into the cheese mixture, pressing the cheese onto the onion to ensure it sticks. Lay the coated rings on a greased baking sheet.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter (or olive oil). Stir until the breadcrumbs are well coated, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the cheese-coated onion rings.
Step 6: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the tops are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a delightful side dish.

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Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must

Keep these in mind:

For extra flavor, try adding some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
Make sure to coat the onions well with the cheese mixture for maximum cheesiness.
Using a mix of cheeses can elevate the taste; consider adding some Parmesan!
For a crispy topping, broil the onions for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must

These cheesy onions shine as:

A side dish alongside grilled meats or a main course.
A flavorful appetizer at parties, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
A comforting addition to any Southern-style meal.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This makes them a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy comfort food throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must?

The secret lies in using sweet onions and ensuring they are well coated with the cheese mixture. The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates a delightful cheesy pull that enhances the dish.

Can I make Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the onion rings and cheese mixture a day in advance. Just assemble and bake them when you’re ready to serve for a fresh, warm side dish!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must?

To avoid soggy onions, ensure they are sliced thickly and baked until golden brown. Also, don’t skip the soaking step; it enhances the sweetness of the onions.

Variations of Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must You Can Try

Here are some fun twists:

For a spicy kick, add jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
Use a combination of different cheeses such as Gouda or Fontina for a gourmet touch.
Try adding cooked bacon bits or ham for a heartier version.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the topping altogether.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection or learn how to make spaghetti with garlic and oil. You can also explore the nutritional benefits of onions for a healthier twist on your meals.

Cheesy Tennessee Onions Must: 7 Irresistible Comfort Bites

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Cheesy Tennessee Onions: A Must-Try Baked Side Dish!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Sweet onions (like Vidalia or Walla Walla, or yellow onions)
Sharp cheddar cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
Butter (or olive oil for a non-dairy option)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Peel and slice the onions into thick rings, about 1/2 inch wide. Soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes if you want them to be extra sweet.
In a bowl, combine shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika. Mix well until the cheeses are evenly coated with the seasonings.
Take each onion ring and dip it into the cheese mixture, pressing the cheese onto the onion to ensure it sticks. Lay the coated rings on a greased baking sheet.
In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter (or olive oil). Stir until the breadcrumbs are well coated, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the cheese-coated onion rings.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the tops are golden brown and crispy.
Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a delightful side dish.