I’ve always loved comfort food, especially dishes that bring together simple ingredients to create something extraordinary. Tennessee Onions are one of those recipes that instantly became a favorite in my kitchen. The first time I baked these onions with a generous layer of cheese, I was amazed at how a humble vegetable could transform into a rich, indulgent side dish. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness from the onions, savory notes from the seasonings, and gooey melted cheese that makes it irresistible.
You will love this recipe because it combines simplicity with decadence. Unlike traditional onion rings that require deep frying, Tennessee Onions are baked, which makes them lighter yet equally satisfying. The dish is wonderfully versatile; it works as a side for weeknight dinners, a special addition to holiday meals, or even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The flavors blend so beautifully that even picky eaters will find themselves reaching for seconds.
This recipe is also affordable. You don’t need exotic ingredients or expensive cheeses to create a dish that feels luxurious. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of effort, you can make a dish that rivals restaurant-quality sides. Plus, it’s easy to scale the recipe up or down depending on how many people you’re serving.
Here’s what you’ll need to make Tennessee Onions:
Ingredients:
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4 large sweet onions, sliced into thick rings
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend of your choice)
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
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4 slices chicken ham, diced
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1/4 cup beef broth
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Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
With these simple ingredients, you’re ready to create a dish that will impress everyone at the table. The combination of baked onions, cheese, and savory additions like turkey bacon and chicken ham elevates this side dish into something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, Tennessee Onions bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of indulgence to any meal.
How to Prepare Tennessee Onions
Preparing Tennessee Onions is surprisingly simple, yet the results are impressively delicious. This step-by-step guide will help you create a cheesy, baked side dish that is full of flavor, quick to make, and customizable to your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat. This ensures the onions bake evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
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Prepare the onions: Peel the sweet onions and slice them into thick rings, about 1/2 inch each. Keeping the rings thick helps them hold together during baking and provides a satisfying bite.
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Cook the turkey bacon and chicken ham: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey bacon until crisp. Remove from the pan, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces. Dice the chicken ham into small cubes and lightly sauté in the same skillet for extra flavor.
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Make the seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly. This mixture will be sprinkled over the onions to enhance their natural sweetness and provide a savory depth.
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Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil. Arrange the onion rings in a single layer. If necessary, overlap slightly, but avoid crowding them.
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Add the toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled turkey bacon and diced chicken ham evenly over the onion rings. Next, pour the beef broth lightly over the onions to keep them moist during baking.
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Add cheese and breadcrumbs: Combine shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs in a separate bowl. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the onion rings, ensuring each layer is covered. This will create a golden, crunchy topping.
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Bake the onions: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the onions are tender, the cheese is fully melted, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Check halfway through and rotate the dish if necessary for even baking.
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Garnish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that complements the cheesy onions beautifully.
Quick and Easy Tips:
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Use pre-cooked turkey bacon to save time.
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Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
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For added texture, sprinkle a small amount of crushed cornflakes over the top before baking.
Customizable Options:
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Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
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Adjust seasoning to taste; more paprika gives a smokier flavor, while extra garlic powder intensifies the savory notes.
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Make it spicier by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture.
This recipe is popular with many people because it offers the comfort of onion rings without the frying, and the cheesy, savory toppings elevate the dish to a new level. Baked to perfection, Tennessee Onions are rich, flavorful, and versatile enough to pair with any main course.
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Tennessee Onions – The Cheesy Baked Side Dish Better Than Onion Rings
Tennessee Onions are a cheesy, baked side dish that rivals traditional onion rings. Packed with flavor, this dish combines sweet onions, melted cheese, turkey bacon, and chicken ham to create a comforting, versatile, and crowd-pleasing recipe. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or as an appetizer, Tennessee Onions are simple to prepare yet indulgent enough to impress any guest.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet onions, sliced into thick rings
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend of your choice)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 slices chicken ham, diced
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and slice the sweet onions into 1/2-inch thick rings.
- Cook the turkey bacon in a skillet until crisp, drain, and crumble.
- Dice the chicken ham and lightly sauté in the same skillet.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil. Arrange onion rings in a single layer.
- Sprinkle the crumbled turkey bacon and diced chicken ham evenly over the onions.
- Pour the beef broth lightly over the onions.
- In a separate bowl, combine shredded cheese and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until onions are tender, cheese is melted, and breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Pre-cooked turkey bacon saves time.
Customize the cheese or add extra vegetables for variety.
Make it spicy by adding cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
FAQs
1. Can I make Tennessee Onions ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the onions, toppings, and seasoning mixture in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before baking. This saves time on busy days.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses works beautifully. Each choice slightly changes the flavor and texture.
3. Are Tennessee Onions suitable for vegetarians?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the turkey bacon and chicken ham. You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or a vegetarian bacon alternative for a similar savory flavor.
4. Can I freeze Tennessee Onions?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked dish for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
5. How do I know when the onions are done?
The onions are ready when they are tender, the cheese is melted, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. A fork should slide easily through the rings without resistance.
6. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning mixture for a subtle heat that complements the cheesy topping.