Tennessee Onions is an old-fashioned onion casserole that brings together the perfect blend of flavors and textures. This dish has become a cherished classic, known for its creamy and cheesy texture, making it a standout at family gatherings and potlucks. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a hearty side dish that complements any meal. In this article, we will dive deep into the recipe, providing detailed instructions and tips to ensure your Tennessee Onions turns out perfectly every time.
Overview of Tennessee Onions
- Description: Tennessee Onions is a comforting casserole featuring sweet Vidalia onions, rich cheeses, and aromatic herbs and spices. This dish offers a unique flavor profile that combines the sweetness of the onions with the creaminess of the cheese, creating a satisfying experience for your taste buds.
- Active Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 10
Essential Ingredients for Tennessee Onions
To prepare this delectable dish, you will need the following ingredients:
Onions
- 2 ½ lb. sweet onions (preferably Vidalia, sliced into 1/4-inch rings): The star of the dish, these onions are known for their natural sweetness and mild flavor. Vidalia onions, grown in Georgia, are particularly prized for their unique taste and tenderness.
Cheese
- 4 oz. mild Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup): This cheese adds a rich creaminess to the casserole and melts beautifully.
- 4 oz. smoked Gouda cheese, shredded (about 1 cup): The smoky flavor of Gouda enhances the overall taste, providing depth and a wonderful aroma.
Butter
- 1/4 cup salted butter, cut into 1/4-inch pieces: Butter helps create a luscious sauce that coats the onions, adding richness to the dish.
Herbs and Spices
- 1 tsp. dried thyme: This herb brings an earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the onions.
- 1 tsp. dried parsley flakes: Parsley adds a fresh touch and balances the richness of the dish.
- 1 tsp. garlic salt: This ingredient infuses the casserole with a savory depth.
- 1/2 tsp. dried oregano: Oregano provides a slightly peppery flavor that enhances the overall profile.
- 1/2 tsp. dry mustard: Adds a subtle tanginess that brightens the dish.
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper: This spice offers a hint of heat, elevating the flavors.
Additional Ingredients
- Cooking Spray: For coating the baking dish, ensuring the casserole doesn’t stick.
Step-by-Step Directions for Making Tennessee Onions
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Coat a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Season the Onions
In a large bowl, combine the sliced sweet onions with the dried thyme, parsley flakes, garlic salt, oregano, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper. Toss gently to coat the onion rings evenly with the seasoning. This step is crucial, as it ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor.
Arrange in Baking Dish
Transfer the seasoned onions into the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly. This allows for even cooking and ensures that all the onions get that delightful caramelization during baking.
Add Toppings
Now it’s time to add the finishing touches. Distribute the butter evenly over the onions. Then, sprinkle the mild Cheddar and smoked Gouda cheese generously on top. These cheeses will melt and create a gooey, irresistible layer that enhances the casserole’s richness.
Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 40 minutes or until the onions are soft and the sides are bubbly. This step allows the onions to tenderize perfectly while soaking in all the flavors from the seasonings and butter.
After the initial baking time, remove the foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. This final baking step creates a delightful contrast in texture, with a crunchy top layer that complements the tender onions underneath.
Flavor Profile of Tennessee Onions
The combination of sweet Vidalia onions, rich cheeses, and aromatic herbs creates a unique flavor experience. The casserole boasts a cheesy, tangy-sweet taste profile, with the sweet onions providing a gentle bite that is neither overpowering nor pungent. The addition of smoked Gouda adds a smoky dimension, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Making the Best Tennessee Onions
- Slice Onions Evenly: For consistent cooking, ensure that your onion rings are sliced evenly into 1/4-inch pieces. This helps all the onions cook at the same rate.
- Separate Onion Rings: When placing the onions in the baking dish, separate the rings to promote even cooking and browning.
- Substitutions: If Vidalia onions are unavailable, sweet onions such as Walla Walla or Texas Sweet make excellent substitutes without compromising on flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Tennessee Onions
Tennessee Onions can be enjoyed in multiple ways, making them a versatile addition to any meal:
- As a Side Dish: This casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, such as roasted meats, grilled chicken, or steak. Its creamy texture complements savory dishes perfectly.
- As a Condiment: Serve Tennessee Onions on burgers or grilled sandwiches to elevate your meal with a burst of flavor.
- In Between Bread: Use the casserole as a filling for a delicious grilled cheese sandwich, adding a unique twist to a classic favorite.
Tennessee Onions is more than just an onion casserole; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort to any dining experience. With its creamy texture, rich cheese, and sweet onion goodness, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether served as a side dish or a savory topping, Tennessee Onions is bound to impress your family and friends at your next gathering. Embrace this deliciously old-fashioned recipe and watch as it becomes a beloved favorite in your household!
