Tennessee Onions – Better Than Onion Rings!

by

Sweet Vidalia onions baked with butter and garlic until tender and golden — a simple yet irresistible Southern side dish that’s even better than onion rings!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

  • Vidalia sweet onions – 3–4, sliced into thick rings

  • Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp

  • Salt – 1 tsp

  • Garlic powder – 1 tsp

Instructions

  1. Prep the onions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and slice Vidalia onions into thick rings. Arrange them in a lightly greased baking dish.

  2. Add butter & seasoning: Cut butter into small pieces and scatter over the onions. Sprinkle with salt and garlic powder.

  3. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until onions are tender and slightly caramelized.

  4. Serve: Enjoy hot as a side dish or topping for steaks, burgers, or grilled meats.

Quick Notes & Pro Tips

  • Use sweet onions: Vidalia onions work best for this recipe thanks to their natural sweetness.

  • Cheesy variation: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for extra richness.

  • Make it a full dish: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for a crispy finish.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish transforms simple onions into a buttery, savory-sweet side that’s hands-off and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or a Southern-inspired feast.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Cheesy Tennessee onions: Add a layer of cheddar or Swiss cheese before baking uncovered.

  • Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne before baking.

  • Serve with: Grilled steaks, chicken, or as a side to burgers.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular yellow onions?
A: Yes, but Vidalia onions provide the best sweetness for this recipe.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely — just use a larger baking dish and increase butter accordingly.

Personal Note

This recipe proves you don’t need a long ingredient list for big flavor. These onions are buttery, tender, and so addictive — you may never crave fried onion rings again!

Your turn!
Tried these Tennessee Onions? Leave a comment or tag me on social media — I’d love to hear how you served them!

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