Ah, the aroma of Slow Cooker Tennessee Onions wafting through the house brings back cherished memories of Sunday dinners at Grandma’s. Her kitchen was a sanctuary where time slowed down, and the day’s worries seemed to melt away. This recipe captures that essence and transforms it into a convenient, modern dish that’s perfect for today’s busy lives.
Shopping List
- 4 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla)
- 1 stick of butter (unsalted)
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- 1 tsp of black pepper
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Slow Cooker Tennessee Onions
1. Prep Your Onions
- Slice the onions into thick rings. You want them to hold up during the slow cooking process.
- Separate the rings and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the stick of butter.
- Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Place a layer of onion rings at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour a bit of the sauce over the onions.
- Repeat the layering process until all the onions and sauce are used up.
4. Cook Low and Slow
- Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high for 3-4 hours, but slow and steady wins the race for the best caramelization.
5. Optional Cheesy Finish
- If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the onions about 15 minutes before serving. Cover and let it melt into gooey perfection.
FAQs
Q: Can I use any type of onion for this recipe? A: While you can use any onion, sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla are best for that rich, caramelized flavor.
Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead? A: Absolutely! Use the sauté function to caramelize the onions first, then switch to slow cook mode.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish? A: Sure, mushrooms and bell peppers make excellent additions. Add them in the last 2 hours of cooking for best results.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free? A: Yes, as long as you ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, the dish is naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
There you have it, folks! Slow Cooker Tennessee Onions are not just a dish; they’re a nostalgic journey back to simpler times. With this easy recipe, you can bring a slice of Southern comfort to your modern kitchen. So, grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen. Your taste buds will thank you!
