Caramelized Tennessee Onion Tortellini Recipe

Cook Time: 120 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 sweet onions, very thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 (20 ounce) package refrigerated tortellini
• 1 cup French onion dip
• 1/2 cup beef broth or water
• 1 1/2 cups shredded white Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Lightly grease a 3-quart baking dish. Add the sliced onions to the prepared dish and toss them with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and oregano. Dot with butter on top.

Place the dish in the preheated oven, stirring every 20 to 30 minutes. Bake until the onions are softened and caramelized, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

While the onions are baking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook for about 3 minutes, then drain well.

Once the onions are done, remove the dish from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 400F (200C). Stir in the French onion dip and mix until well combined. Add the cooked tortellini and broth, stirring again to combine. Top with the shredded Cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

Return the dish to the oven and bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly, about 25 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition	Amount per serving	% Daily Value
Calories	623	31%
Total Fat	33g	42%
Saturated Fat	17g	86%
Cholesterol	110mg	37%
Sodium	1226mg	53%
Total Carbohydrate	58g	21%
Dietary Fiber	3g	12%
Total Sugars	8g
Protein	25g	49%
Vitamin C	8mg	9%
Calcium	501mg	39%
Iron	2mg	11%
Potassium	355mg	8%

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Caramelized Tennessee Onion Tortellini

The origins of Caramelized Tennessee Onion Tortellini reflect a unique fusion of Italian and Southern American culinary traditions. Tortellini, traditionally an Italian stuffed pasta, was combined with the rich, sweet flavors of Tennessee onions, which are known for their natural sugar content and mildness. This pairing likely emerged as Southern chefs sought to incorporate locally grown produce into classic Italian dishes, creating a comforting yet sophisticated meal that honors both culinary heritages.

Regional Characteristics

In Tennessee, onions are celebrated for their sweetness and versatility, particularly the Vidalia-style or locally grown yellow onions. When caramelized slowly, these onions achieve a deep, mellow flavor that complements the creamy, cheesy filling of tortellini. The use of Cajun seasoning and paprika introduces a subtle Southern spice profile, giving the dish a regional twist that differentiates it from the more restrained flavors of traditional Italian pasta casseroles.

What Sets It Apart from Similar Dishes

Unlike standard baked tortellini recipes that rely heavily on tomato-based sauces or simple cream sauces, Caramelized Tennessee Onion Tortellini emphasizes a rich, layered flavor created by the caramelization process. The combination of sweet onions, French onion dip, and dual cheeses produces a savory-sweet contrast rarely found in typical Italian-American pasta dishes. Additionally, the optional use of beef broth instead of water adds a depth of umami that elevates this dish above other baked tortellini recipes.

Where Its Typically Served

This dish is often enjoyed as a comforting dinner or a show-stopping side dish for family gatherings and holiday meals. Its combination of creamy texture and sweet-savory flavor makes it a favorite at potlucks, Southern-style feasts, and casual dinner parties. Restaurants in Tennessee that focus on farm-to-table cuisine or Southern-inspired Italian fare may also feature this dish on their seasonal menus.

Interesting Facts

• Tennessee onions used in this recipe are sometimes slow-roasted for hours to achieve a deep caramelized sweetness that contrasts with the creamy cheese filling.
• The dish can be easily adapted with different tortellini fillings, such as spinach or mushroom, without losing its characteristic flavor.
• Chefs often add a touch of fresh parsley not only for color but also to balance the richness of the dish with a subtle herbal note.
• The combination of Cajun spices and classic French onion dip in a baked pasta dish is relatively rare, making this recipe a creative twist on comfort food traditions.
• This recipe demonstrates the Southern American practice of transforming simple, locally sourced ingredients into gourmet-style dishes with international influences.

FAQ about Caramelized Tennessee Onion Tortellini Recipe

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