Tennessee Onions Recipe

These Tennessee Onions are a cheesy, savory onion topping made with sweet Vidalia onions, fresh garlic, Worcestershire sauce, butter, and three cheeses. Baked or smoked until tender, bubbly, and golden, they're especially good piled onto smashburgers, grilled steaks, and sandwiches.

Course Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine American, Southern

Keyword comfort food, easy, party food, smoked

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Servings cups

Calories 323kcal

Author Bon Appeteach

Ingredients

4 to 5 large sweet onions preferably Vidalia, about 2½ to 3 lb
6 tablespoons butter melted
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
4 cloves fresh garlic very finely minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar
1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack
½ cup finely shredded Parmesan
Butter or cooking spray for the skillet

Instructions

Preheat: Preheat the oven or smoker to 350°F. Lightly grease a 12-inch cast iron skillet. A 9×13-inch baking dish or 3-quart casserole dish also works for an oven-baked version.
Slice the onions: Use a mandoline to slice the onions about ⅛ inch thick. Separate the slices into individual pieces.
Season the onions: Add the onions to a large bowl. Stir together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Pour over the onions and add the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss gently until the onions are evenly coated.
Mix the cheeses: Combine the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan in a bowl.
Layer the onions: Spread half of the onions evenly into the skillet. Sprinkle with half of the cheese mixture. Repeat with the remaining onions and cheese.
Bake or smoke: Cook uncovered at 350°F for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the onions are completely tender and the cheese is melted, bubbling, and deeply browned in spots.
Brown the top (optional): For an extra-browned cheese crust, broil in the oven for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely. On the smoker, increase the temperature to about 400°F for the final few minutes if additional browning is needed.
Rest: Let the onions rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the melted cheese to set slightly so the onions and cheese stay together when scooped onto burgers, steaks, or sandwiches.

Notes

Make ahead: The onions can be prepared ahead and reheated gently before serving.

Nutrition