Tennessee Cheesy Onions

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter.
2. Add 1 tablespoon flour, whisking constantly to make a smooth roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes until it’s lightly golden.
3. Gradually add 1 cup of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Simmer the sauce for 3–5 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
5. Stir in 1 cup cheddar cheese, ½ cup Parmesan, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Onions and Cheese Sauce

Gently fold the caramelized onions into the cheese sauce, ensuring all the onions are coated with the rich, creamy mixture. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Bake for Extra Flavor (Optional)

For a golden, bubbly topping:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the cheesy onions into a baking dish.
3. Sprinkle a little extra cheddar or Parmesan on top.
4. Bake for 10–15 minutes until the top is lightly browned and bubbly.

Tip: This step is optional but adds a slightly crispy, gratin-like texture that makes the dish extra special.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from the oven, let it cool for 2–3 minutes, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm as a side dish with your favorite main courses.

Tips for Perfect Tennessee Cheesy Onions

• Onion choice: Yellow onions work best for caramelization, but sweet onions like Vidalia can add a delicate sweetness.
• Cheese variations: For a richer flavor, try mixing Gruyère or Fontina with cheddar.
• Make ahead: You can caramelize the onions a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just heat them and combine with the cheese sauce before serving.

Tennessee Cheesy Onions are the ultimate comfort side dish — creamy, cheesy, and sweet with a hint of savory depth. They’re perfect for family dinners, holiday spreads, or even a cozy solo meal with bread to scoop up every last bit.

If you want, I can also create a super quick 15-minute version of Tennessee Cheesy Onions that’s almost as creamy but doesn’t require long caramelization. This is perfect for busy days. Do you want me to make that?