It just takes a few simple ingredients to make this cheesy, savory side dish.

This homestyle casserole spotlights Vidalia onions, which are only grown in and around Vidalia, Georgia.

Their sweetness is credited to the unique soil of the 20-county growing region that surrounds it.

Tennessee Onions in a dish from above with a large spoon

Simply Recipes / Photo by Morgan Hunt Glaze / Food Styling by Jennifer Wendorf / Prop Styling by Priscilla Montiel

Why do they call it Tennessee Onion Casserole?

Hence, the name!

Cooking the onions for a long time enhances their sweetness, perfectly contrasting the salty, melty cheese situation.

Tennessee Onions (Casserole) from above in a casserole dish with a spoon

Simply Recipes / Photo by Morgan Hunt Glaze / Food Styling by Jennifer Wendorf / Prop Styling by Priscilla Montiel

Even the butter in the bottom of the baking dish is nicely spiced and seasoned.

The sauce at the bottom of the pan is essentially buttery onion goodness, perfect for dunking.

Serve them as a side dish to just about any protein, like roasted chicken or pan-seared steak.

Is there anything better than buttered rice?

it’s possible for you to even pile them on top of a burger or sandwich.

Sprinkle with the salt, mustard, garlic powder, and paprika; toss gently to coat.

Arrange the onions evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Remove the foil and top with the remaining 1/2 cup havarti and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese.

Bake until the top is golden, about 30 minutes.

Sprinkle with parsley, if desired, and black pepper and serve.

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