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Classic Tennessee Onions with Butter and Cheese

Classic Tennessee onions are baked with butter, garlic powder, oregano, and a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The onions turn tender beneath a melted, browned cheese topping.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
resting 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened and divided
  • 4 sweet onions large (about 3 pounds), peeled and cut into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

  1. Heat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of the butter.
  3. Arrange the onion rounds evenly in the baking dish.
  4. Sprinkle the onions with the garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Dot the onions with the remaining 7 tablespoons of butter.
  6. Sprinkle the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan evenly over the onions.
  7. Bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, until the onions are tender when pierced and the cheese is melted and browned at the edges.
  8. Let the onions rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For even baking, arrange the onion rounds in a single, even layer. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days; freezing is not recommended because the onions and cheese may change texture. For a dairy-free variation, use plant-based butter and dairy-free shredded cheeses.