Ingredients

Cooking spray

2 1/2 lb. sweet Vidalia onions (3 large or 4 medium), peeled

1 tsp. dried parsley

1 tsp. dry mustard

1 tsp. garlic powder

3/4 tsp. seasoned salt

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 cup shredded mozzarella

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar

1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan

4 tbsp. unsalted butter, cut into cubes

1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth

Finely chopped fresh parsley, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350°F. Lightly grease a 13” x 9” baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Place an onion on its side on a cutting board. Slice vertically into 1/4″-thick rounds. Separate the rounds into individual rings. Restack rings from largest to smallest, mimicking the onion’s original shape, in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with remaining onions to form 4 stacks total.

Step 3: In a small bowl, combine dried parsley, dry mustard, garlic powder, seasoned salt, oregano, kosher salt, cayenne, and black pepper. In a separate medium bowl, mix mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses.

Step 4: Sprinkle the onion stacks evenly with the seasoning mixture and gently toss to coat. Dot the onions with butter cubes. Pour vegetable broth into the bottom of the pan. Cover tightly with foil.

Step 5: Bake for 75 to 90 minutes, or until the onions are tender and easily pierced with a fork or cake tester. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the cheese mixture on top of the onions.

Step 6: Continue baking for 5 to 7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly around the edges.

Step 7: Turn the broiler on high. Broil the onions closely watching for 1 to 2 minutes, until the cheese is browned in spots. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use sweet Vidalia onions for the best natural sweetness, but mild yellow onions can work if necessary.

For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or add a pinch of smoked paprika.

Try substituting part of the vegetable broth with white wine for extra depth of flavor.

Mix in a handful of breadcrumbs with the cheese topping for added texture.

FAQs

Can I make Tennessee Onions ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the onions and seasoning steps ahead and refrigerate them covered for a few hours before baking. Just add the cheese and broil steps just before serving for best results.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Definitely. While mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan create a great balance of flavors, feel free to experiment with Gruyere, fontina, or Monterey Jack to suit your taste.