Description
Tennessee Onions is a flavorful old-fashioned onion casserole featuring sweet onions baked with a blend of dried herbs, spices, butter, and a cheesy topping of Cheddar and smoked Gouda. This comforting side dish offers a unique twist with its layered seasonings and creamy cheese melt, perfect for enhancing any meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 2 1/2 lb. sweet onions (about 3 large onions), sliced crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices and separated into rings
- 1 tsp. dried thyme
- 1 tsp. dried parsley flakes
- 1 tsp. garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp. dry mustard
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup salted butter, cut into 1/4-inch-thick pieces
- 4 oz. mild Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
- 4 oz. smoked Gouda cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Onions and Seasonings: Slice the sweet onions crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick rings and separate them. In a large bowl, toss the onion rings with dried thyme, parsley flakes, garlic salt, dried oregano, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper to evenly coat the onions with the spices.
- Arrange Onions in Dish: Transfer the seasoned onions to the prepared baking dish, layering them evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Add Butter and Cheese, then Bake Covered: Distribute the pieces of salted butter evenly over the onions. Sprinkle the shredded mild Cheddar and smoked Gouda cheeses on top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven at 325°F for about 40 minutes, or until the onions are soft and the sides are bubbling.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C). Continue baking uncovered for an additional 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, ensuring a deliciously melted cheese crust.
Notes
- Use sweet onions such as Vidalia for the best flavor and natural sweetness in this casserole.
- Covering the casserole during the initial bake helps gently soften the onions and meld the flavors.
- The combination of Cheddar and smoked Gouda adds both sharpness and smokiness to the dish.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to taste if you prefer a milder or spicier flavor.
- This casserole pairs well with grilled meats, roasted poultry, or as a hearty vegetarian side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Southern
