Slow Cooker Tennessee Onions are a simple yet flavorful dish made with sweet onions, butter, and a blend of cheeses. Slowly cooked to perfection, these onions become tender and caramelized, with a rich, cheesy topping that makes them perfect as a side dish or even a topping for burgers or steaks. Let’s dive into this delicious Southern-inspired recipe!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia), sliced into 1/4-inch rings
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Onions
- Layer the Onions: Place the sliced onions in the slow cooker, layering them evenly.
- Add Seasoning: Pour the melted butter over the onions. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce, ensuring the onions are well coated.
Slow Cook the Onions
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the onions are tender and caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Add Cheese
- Add the Cheeses: Once the onions are tender, sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
- Melt the Cheese: Cover and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired. Serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Onion Choice: Sweet onions like Vidalia work best for this recipe due to their natural sweetness, but you can use any type of onion you have on hand.
- Butter: Make sure to use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level in the dish.
- Stir Occasionally: Stirring occasionally during cooking helps ensure even caramelization of the onions.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Herb-Flavored Onions: Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the onions for extra flavor.
- Bacon Addition: Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon before adding the cheese for a smoky twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dish: Serve these onions as a side dish with grilled meats, such as steak or chicken.
- Burger Topping: Spoon over burgers for a delicious, cheesy topping.
- Steak Garnish: Use these onions as a flavorful garnish for grilled or pan-seared steak.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the onions in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the slow cooker or on the stovetop until warmed through.
What Type of Cheese Works Best?
A combination of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan provides great flavor and texture, but feel free to use other cheese varieties like Gruyere or provolone.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I Use Red Onions Instead of Sweet Onions?
Yes, red onions can be used, but keep in mind that they will have a slightly sharper flavor compared to sweet onions.
How Can I Make the Onions Extra Caramelized?
For extra caramelization, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the moisture to evaporate.
Slow Cooker Tennessee Onions are a delicious, comforting side dish that’s easy to make and incredibly versatile. With tender, caramelized onions and a cheesy topping, this dish is perfect for any meal, from a family dinner to a backyard barbecue. Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of this Southern classic!
Happy Cooking!
