This simple recipe pairs well with all sorts of dishes, from pasta to burgers!
Caramelized onions have long been my topping of choice for burgers and brats. It’s come to the point where I can’t grill anything without first whipping up a batch. Of course, caramelized onions aren’t just for patty melts. They’re great with sandwiches, quiches, mushrooms, pasta, and more. Plus, they’re super simple to make!
The combo of the butter and onion emits such a pleasing aroma—I’d totally buy a candle that smelled like this. I think it has to do with the butter, which naturally browns as the onions caramelize. But how does it taste? Well, I think you all know that onions aren’t known for their sweetness, at least not when eaten raw. Not so with caramelized onions. Their sweet, mellow flavor and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture are practically the antithesis of your average uncooked onion.
Are Caramelized Onions Healthy?
Onions themselves are high in vitamins C and B6, folate, and potassium. They also contain antioxidants and compounds like quercetin, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Caramelizing onions, however, involves butter and oil, which adds extra fat and calories.
To make this recipe suitable for vegans, simply use a plant-based butter.
Slow And Steady Wins The Race
I’ve probably said this in other posts, but it’s worth saying again: The key to perfect caramelizing is patience. Slow cooking over medium-low heat allows the onions to release their natural sugars and develop a rich, golden-brown color. Rushing the process by increasing the heat may lead to burning or uneven cooking. All you need to do is stir them occasionally so the onions cook evenly. It’s really that simple.
How To Make Ahead And Store
Caramelized onions are best fresh. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. I recommend reheating the onions in a pan with just a smidgen of butter.
Serving Suggestions
Caramelized onions are super versatile, and I use them in a variety of dishes, even pasta and Italian faves like chicken Marsala or Fettuccine Alfredo. Serve the onions as a burger topping, or mix them into our Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes for added flavor. They are also delicious in sandwiches, on pizzas, or as an accompaniment to a cheese and cracker plate!
If you love onions as much as I do, check out these other easy recipes, like Pickled Red Onions or Air-Fryer Onions!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 large yellow onions thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Melt butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter is foamy.
- Add the sliced onions and stir to coat with the butter and oil mixture. Sprinkle with salt.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 50 minutes to 1 hour. The onions should become deeply golden brown and very soft.
- If the onions begin to stick or burn, add a tablespoon of water to the skillet and stir to loosen the caramelized bits.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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