If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort side dish—one that’s ridiculously simple yet wildly flavorful—Cheesy Tennessee Onions are about to be your new obsession. This recipe turns humble sweet onions into a bubbling, golden, savory masterpiece with just a handful of ingredients. It’s cheesy, melty, slightly sweet, and savory all at once. And it’s basically effortless. Pop it in the oven, and magic happens. This is one of those vintage southern recipes that I adore!

Cheesy Tennessee Onions on a casserole pan on wooden table

This one became an unexpected hit in our house. My husband took one bite and said, “Okay, I could eat just this and be happy.” It’s that good. And my kids? They picked out every last cheesy onion, like little scavengers, asking for more. It’s officially made its way into our repeat side dish lineup—especially for potlucks, BBQs, and Sunday dinners.

Baked Tennessee onions in a casserole pan with a spoon lifting some out

What Are Cheesy Tennessee Onions?

Cheesy Tennessee Onions are a Southern-inspired baked onion dish that layers thick-cut sweet onions with butter, a blend of cheeses, and savory seasonings. The result is melty, cheesy, almost French onion soup-vibes—but thicker, heartier, and fit for scooping beside steak, chicken, burgers, or just about anything else you’ve got going on.

They’re baked until bubbly and golden brown around the edges, with the natural sweetness of the onions balancing beautifully against the richness of the butter and cheese. It’s like scalloped potatoes… but with onions.

close up of Cheesy Tennessee Onions in a pan all baked up golden brown

When to Serve These Cheesy Tennessee Onions

Holiday Dinners – Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas… these onions are worthy of a place next to the turkey or ham.
Potluck & BBQ Favorite – These travel great and reheat beautifully. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Weeknight Dinner Upgrade – When you’re bored of the same sides, this is your solution.
Burger Nights – The cheesy, oniony goodness is perfect next to grilled meats.
Comfort Food Cravings – On those nights when you just want something hot, melty, and ridiculously satisfying.

overhead look of Cheesy Tennessee Onions in a pan on table with parsley and onions around the table

What to Serve With Cheesy Tennessee Onions

These dreamy onions are a versatile side dish that complements everything from grilled meats to holiday feasts. Here are some perfect pairings:

Grilled Steaks or Burgers: The cheesy onions add a savory-sweet punch next to smoky grilled mains.
Roast Chicken or Turkey: Serve these instead of traditional stuffing or potatoes for a new holiday twist.
BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork: Their tangy-sweet richness plays beautifully with smoky BBQ flavors.
Meatloaf or Pork Chops: Add a melty, decadent layer to your favorite homestyle dinners.
Baked Potatoes: Scoop some of the onions right on top—next-level comfort food!
Crusty Bread or Cornbread: Don’t let that golden cheese and onion juice go to waste.

Staub pan on table with Cheesy onion bake in a pan with onions and parsley around the table

Why You’ll Love These

Big flavor, minimal effort. Slice, layer, bake—done.
No flour or roux. This cheesy sauce thickens all on its own.
Versatile. Great with steak, chicken, pork chops, burgers, or even spooned over baked potatoes.
Budget-friendly. Onions, cheese, and butter—nothing fancy here, but so delicious.
Make-ahead friendly. Assemble and bake later!

ingredients for Cheesy Tennessee Onions in single serve containers on a table

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s what goes into this cheesy goodness:

Sweet Onions – Like Vidalia, yellow, or Walla Walla. Their natural sweetness deepens as they bake.
Butter – Melts into the onions and helps the cheese bubble and brown. Adds richness.
Cheddar Cheese – A classic sharp cheddar gives this dish a deep cheesy flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese – For melty, stretchy goodness.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds that salty umami and crispy top finish.
Garlic Powder – Just enough to bring out the flavor.
Salt & Pepper – Adjust to taste.

sliced onions in a casserole dish with seasonings on top

sliced onions and cheese sprinkled on top

Variations to Try

Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices for heat.
Add Bacon – Crumble crispy cooked bacon over the top before baking.
Use Gruyère or Fontina – Swap in for mozzarella for a slightly fancier twist.
Onion Variety – Try red onions for a bolder look, or mix red and yellow for contrast.
Creamy Version – Add a splash of heavy cream before baking for an ultra-rich sauce.

wooden spoon with baked onion and cheese on table

Troubleshooting Tips

Too Watery? Make sure to slice onions thick and don’t cover with foil—baking uncovered lets moisture evaporate.
Too Salty? Use unsalted butter and salt to taste at the end.
Cheese Not Browning? Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, but watch closely!
Burnt Edges? Make sure onions are in a single layer, and don’t overbake.

Cheesy Tennessee Onions on table with some parsley on top

Crowd Favorite at Every Gathering

Want a dish that vanishes before anything else on the table? This is it. Whether you’re headed to a potluck, church supper, or backyard BBQ, people will be asking “What IS this and can I get the recipe?” Cheesy Tennessee Onions might not sound like the star, but they are. They’re the sleeper hit that steals the show.

onion baked with cheese on top in a casserole dish

Storage and Serving Tips

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave in short bursts.
Serving Tip: These reheat like a dream and taste just as good the next day.
What to Serve With: They pair beautifully with grilled steak, roast chicken, BBQ ribs, or even burgers.

Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips

Make-Ahead:

Slice and layer your onions and cheese in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for busy holiday prep!

Freezing:

This dish freezes well! Wrap tightly with foil or use a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Cheesy Tennessee Onions being lifted out of a pan with a wooden spoon

Air Fryer Method (Small Batch Alternative)

If you’re making a smaller batch or want to avoid heating up the oven, the air fryer is a great option for Cheesy Tennessee Onions! The result is still melty, savory, and golden on top—just on a smaller scale.

Here’s how to do it:

Prep as usual: Layer your sliced sweet onions, cheese, and seasonings in a small, air fryer-safe baking dish or foil pan that fits your air fryer basket.
Add toppings: Pour the butter over the top and finish with your choice of shredded cheese and any additional seasoning.
Air fry: Cook at 350°F for 15–18 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Check halfway through to ensure nothing is browning too quickly.
Serve hot: Let sit for 3–5 minutes before serving so the cheesy layers set slightly.

Tip: If you’re cooking for one or two, this is the perfect way to enjoy this indulgent Southern side without making a full casserole.

Cheesy Tennessee Onions baked up till golden brown in pan

Leftovers That Deserve the Spotlight

If you somehow end up with leftovers (miracle!), here’s how to give them a new life:

Toss them with cooked pasta for a quick, cheesy onion pasta bake.
Use them as a burger topping for instant gourmet flair.
Spoon over eggs or toast for a decadent savory breakfast.
Stuff into a baked potato or wrap in a tortilla for a cheesy onion melt.

wooden spoon with baked cheesy onions on it

FAQ: Cheesy Tennessee Onions

Can I use red onions instead of sweet onions?
Yes! Red onions will give a slightly bolder flavor and a beautiful pop of color, but sweet onions are more traditional and yield a milder, caramelized taste.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but for best melt and flavor, I recommend shredding your own. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect melting.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe contains no flour or thickeners—just check your cheese and butter brands to confirm no additives.

Can I add meat to this dish?
Absolutely—bacon is a popular addition, but you could also sprinkle in diced ham or cooked sausage if you want to turn it into more of a main dish.

Why is it called “Tennessee Onions”?
It’s a popular Southern-style side dish, and while the origin isn’t fully clear, it’s often attributed to Tennessee’s love of comfort food classics that showcase simple ingredients with bold flavors.

How do I keep the onions from getting too soft?
Slice them at least ½ inch thick and don’t overbake. You want tender but not mushy.

Can I make this in advance for Thanksgiving?
Yes! Assemble the day before, cover tightly, and bake it the day of. It’s a great make-ahead holiday side.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Totally. Monterey Jack, Colby, Gruyère, or even a smoky gouda would all work well here.

Cheesy Tennessee Onions in a casserole dish sprinkled with parsley on top

From Side Dish to Main Course

This recipe is easy to bulk up! Just layer in a protein like shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked crumbled sausage, or leftover ham before baking and suddenly—boom—it’s a full meal in a pan. Add a side salad and you’re done.

close up of Oven baked cheesy onions in pan

Final Thoughts

There’s something nostalgic and heartwarming about a dish that doesn’t try too hard—but absolutely delivers. Cheesy Tennessee Onions are one of those recipes. Whether you’re bringing a side to a holiday dinner, cooking for a crowd, or just craving something cheesy and comforting on a weeknight, this recipe is a true Southern gem that’s sure to impress.

Once you make it once, you’ll wonder where it’s been all your life. And let’s be honest—any dish that turns onions into a cheesy, crave-worthy side is worth bookmarking.

Cheesy Tennessee Onions