Caramelized Tennessee Onions Recipe
Introduction
Caramelized Tennessee Onions are a simple yet flavorful side dish that enhances any meal with their natural sweetness and tender texture. Roasted to perfection, these onions bring a rich, savory-sweet element that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients
- Fresh Tennessee onions
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: herbs and spices for added flavor
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: Peel and slice the Tennessee onions into thick rings.
- Step 3: Place the onion rings on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter.
- Step 4: Season with salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices of your choice.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the onions are caramelized and tender.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and serve hot as a delicious side dish or topping for your favorite recipes.
Tips & Variations
- For deeper flavor, add a sprinkle of brown sugar or balsamic vinegar before baking.
- Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbal twist.
- Use butter instead of olive oil for a richer taste.
- Serve caramelized onions over grilled meats, burgers, or salads to enhance your dishes.
Storage
Store leftover caramelized onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to retain their tenderness and flavor.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I caramelize other types of onions the same way?
Yes, this method works well with yellow, white, or sweet onions if Tennessee onions are not available.
How do I know when the onions are perfectly caramelized?
They should be golden brown with a slightly sweet aroma and tender to the touch, without being burnt.
PrintCaramelized Tennessee Onions Recipe
Delight in the rich, sweet flavor of Caramelized Tennessee Onions, a simple yet flavorful side dish made by roasting thick onion slices until perfectly tender and golden. These onions are enhanced with olive oil or butter and seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional herbs for a versatile addition to any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Southern
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Fresh Tennessee onions, 4 medium
- Olive oil or butter, 2 tablespoons
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
- Optional: dried herbs (thyme or rosemary), 1 teaspoon
- Optional: smoked paprika or garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the onions.
- Prepare Onions: Peel the Tennessee onions completely and slice them into thick rings, approximately 1/2 inch thick to ensure even caramelization.
- Arrange Onions: Lay the onion rings flat on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly.
- Add Oil and Seasonings: Drizzle the onion rings with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices over them for enhanced flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the onions for 20 to 25 minutes, turning once halfway through if desired, until they are tender and caramelized with golden edges.
- Serve: Remove the caramelized onions from the oven and serve them hot as a flavorful side dish or as a topping for meats, sandwiches, or salads.
Notes
- You can substitute regular yellow onions if Tennessee onions are unavailable.
- For a richer flavor, use butter instead of olive oil or a combination of both.
- Adding fresh herbs like thyme in the last five minutes of baking can enhance aroma.
- Keep an eye on the onions in the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- Leftover caramelized onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: caramelized onions, Tennessee onions, baked onions, side dish, roasted onions, sweet onions

