Tennessee Onions (Better than onion rings)

Here is a simple, cheesy take on fried onion rings that bakes in the oven.

introduction

Tennessee Onions (Better than onion rings) are baked, soft onion layers covered in cheese and simple spices. They cook in the oven, use sweet onions, and come out rich and gooey. You can serve them as a side dish or a snack. For a sweet dip idea try butterscotch sauce if you like a sweet twist with savory food.

why make this recipe

• It is easy and fast.
• No deep frying needed.
• Many cheeses give a great melt and crisp top.
• It is a good side for burgers, BBQ, or a party table.

how to make Tennessee Onions (Better than onion rings)

Ingredients :

• 3 large sweet onions
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese
• 1 cup Monterey jack cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the sweet onions into rings.
3. In a bowl, mix garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
4. Melt butter in a pan and sauté the onion rings until slightly caramelized.
5. Layer the sautéed onion rings in a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the mixed spices over the onions, then layer the cheeses on top (cheddar, Monterey jack, and Parmesan).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve warm as a delicious alternative to onion rings.

how to serve Tennessee Onions (Better than onion rings)

Serve warm right from the oven. They pair well with grilled meat, sandwiches, or as a party snack. For a sweet-salty pairing try a drizzle of salted caramel sauce for a bold contrast, or keep it classic with ketchup or ranch.

how to store Tennessee Onions (Better than onion rings)

• Cool to room temperature.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to keep the cheese melty. Avoid the microwave if you want crisp edges.

tips to make Tennessee Onions (Better than onion rings)

• Use large sweet onions for best flavor and size.
• Do not slice rings too thin; thicker rings hold cheese better.
• Caramelize the onions gently for 5–7 minutes to bring out sweetness.
• Use a mix of cheeses for a good melt and flavor balance.
• If the top browns too fast, cover loosely with foil and finish baking.

variation (if any)

• Add cooked bacon bits between layers for a smoky taste.
• Mix in a little smoked paprika or cayenne for heat.
• Use Gruyère or mozzarella instead of Monterey jack for different flavors.
• Make individual portions by baking rings in small ramekins.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Bake before serving.

Q: Can I use other onions?
A: Yes. Yellow or Vidalia onions work, but sweet onions give the best flavor.

Q: How do I reheat without losing texture?
A: Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes to keep cheese melty and edges crisp.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes, the basic recipe has no gluten. Check cheese labels if you need strict gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Use vegan butter and vegan cheeses. Texture and flavor will change but it will still work.

Conclusion

For the original idea and more tips, see the Tennessee Onions Recipe | The Kitchn.

Tennessee Onions

A cheesy and baked version of onion rings using sweet onions, spices, and a mix of delicious cheeses, perfect as a side dish or snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 3 large sweet onions Use large sweet onions for best flavor.
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter Melted for sautéing.

Cheese Mixture

• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese
• 1 cup Monterey jack cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the sweet onions into rings.
3. In a bowl, mix garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt.

Cooking

1. Melt butter in a pan and sauté the onion rings until slightly caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Layer the sautéed onion rings in a baking dish.
3. Sprinkle the mixed spices over the onions, then layer the cheeses on top (cheddar, Monterey jack, and Parmesan).
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

Serve warm right from the oven. Pairs well with grilled meat, sandwiches, or as a party snack. For a bold contrast, drizzle with salted caramel sauce or serve with ketchup or ranch.