If there’s one dish that captures the soul of Southern hospitality, it’s the legendary Tennessee Onion Dip. This baked dip takes humble onions and transforms them into something truly magical—creamy, cheesy, and bubbling with flavor. It’s the perfect appetizer for game day, family get-togethers, or whenever you need a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and impossible to resist.
Forget the cold dips made with seasoning packets—this one is warm, golden, and freshly baked with real ingredients. The sweet bite of Vidalia or yellow onions pairs beautifully with gooey cheese, tangy mayo, and a hint of spice. It’s a flavor bomb in every scoop.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet onions (like Vidalia), thinly sliced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish
- For serving: crackers, chips, or toasted baguette slices

Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. - Mix the Dip:
In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced onions, mayonnaise, cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly coated. - Bake:
Pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. - Garnish & Serve:
Let it rest for a few minutes, then sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley. Serve warm with your favorite dippers.
Tips & Variations:
- Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne if you like a little heat.
- Substitute half the mayo with sour cream for a tangier dip.
- You can prep this a day ahead and just bake before serving.
Tennessee Onion Dip is the kind of recipe that’s passed down through generations—simple, soulful, and full of flavor. One bite, and it’ll earn a permanent place at your table.