There’s something special about comfort food that makes it a necessity in my kitchen, and one of my absolute favorites has to be Tennessee Onions. This dish takes humble yellow onions and transforms them into a decadent side that’s cheesy, creamy, and downright addictive. I first discovered this recipe at a potluck dinner, and I still remember the moment I took my first bite. The combination of flavors and textures blew my mind, and, yes, there may have been an embarrassing moment involving me trying to sneak in another portion when no one was looking! Who could resist?
What I adore about Tennessee Onions is their versatility. They’re perfect for any occasion—from casual barbecues to family gatherings or even a cozy weeknight dinner. You can serve them alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even just on their own, and trust me, they’ll steal the show every time. Let me walk you through making these delightful cheesy rings that are sure to become a staple in your home!
What’s in Tennessee Onions?
- Large yellow onions: These beauties are the stars of the dish! Their natural sweetness intensifies during baking, making them utterly delicious.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: I love a good sharp cheddar for that rich, tangy flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties for unique tastes!
- Sour cream: This adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the onions perfectly.
- Mayonnaise: Some may think this is an odd addition, but it adds richness and depth of flavor. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! I tend to use Hellmann’s.
- Crushed cornflakes: These crunchy morsels topped with butter create a golden, crispy coating over the cheesy onions.
- Melted butter: Always a good idea! It adds flavor and helps the cornflakes to brown beautifully.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These are essential for infusing the dish with that irresistible savory flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste! A little seasoning goes a long way.
- Fresh parsley: A pop of color and a splash of freshness for garnishing before serving!
Are Tennessee Onions Good for You?
Well, let’s just say they might not be the healthiest thing on your dinner table, but they are certainly made with love! The yellow onions are a great source of vitamins and antioxidants, but once you envelop them in sour cream and mayonnaise, this dish turns into more of a hearty indulgence. The cheddar cheese adds calcium, but let’s be real—this dish is on the richer side. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you could experiment with low-fat sour cream or yogurt, but where’s the fun in that? Eat in moderation and savor the flavor!
Ingredients List
- 4 large yellow onions, sliced into rings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Tennessee Onions?
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your kitchen is nice and toasty for the deliciousness about to unfold!
- In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until it is nicely blended.
- Add the sliced onions to the mixture, ensuring they are well coated. You might want to get in there with your hands—sometimes it’s just easier!
- Transfer the onion mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Make sure every ring gets its fair share!
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the onions. Seriously, the more cheese, the better!
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until combined. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture over the cheese layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the top is golden brown. Your kitchen is going to smell heavenly!
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and voilà!
Serving Suggestions for Tennessee Onions
- These onions pair perfectly with grilled meats like chicken, pork, or steak—anything that can soak up that cheesy goodness.
- For some extra spice, feel free to add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the onion mixture before baking!
- Consider serving them along with a refreshing salad to balance the richness of the dish. Yum!
So there you have it! Tennessee Onions are truly a delightful addition to any meal and an absolute crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of sharing it with friends and family. When you do, let me know how it turned out—I’d love to hear about your experiences in the kitchen! Happy cooking!
