Learn my proven method for how to caramelize onions perfectly every time. Ideal for burgers, sandwiches and so much more, mastering this simple yet impressive skill will definitely elevate your cooking.
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If cooking caramelized onions is a skill you have yet to master, I hear ya.
I had been cooking for many years before I finally got it down. I always ended up with onions that were soft but not browned or I would have onions that were browned (or more likely, burned) yet still not even cooked through.
But once I finally got it right, it felt like an achievement! And now I want to save you the hassle of all of the trial and error that I had and skip to the desired results. You'll love this recipe because it is:
- Easier than you think! My step-by-step guide makes caramelizing onions straightforward and simple, even for beginners.
- Versatile. These slightly sweet and savory onions can be used in a wide range of dishes, from soups and salads to sandwiches and even in hummus. I've included plenty of suggestions below.
- Feel like a chef. Mastering the art of caramelizing onions is a cooking skill that will elevate and enhance the flavor of countless recipes.
The Ingredients
- Onions- Yellow, white or red onions can all be caramelized but typically I use yellow.
- Butter- Butter provides rich, deep flavor to the caramelized onions. However, you can substitute with olive oil, avocado oil or even bacon grease (the flavor is so good!).
- Sea Salt- Kosher or table salt can be used instead- adjust to taste.
- Black Pepper- Optional. A bit of pepper adds an additional layer of flavor to the onions.
The Method
1. Slice onions. Begin by peeling the onions and slicing them into thin, even slices (about ¼ inch thick).
2. Melt butter. Place a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely.
3. Add onions. Spread the onions out so they cover the bottom of the pan evenly, ensuring that at least half of them are in direct contact with the cooking surface. It's fine if they overlap a bit, but make sure you choose a large enough pan so that you can avoid piling them too thick or they will steam rather than caramelize.
4. Cook low and slow. Cook the onions uncovered over medium-low heat, stirring every 3-4 minutes (I recommend setting a timer), for 30-40 minutes until soft and deeply caramelized.
Note: Stirring more often than 3 minutes doesn't give them a chance to brown but I find that any more than 4 minutes increases the chance of burning. If they are quite brown after 4 minutes, you may need to reduce the heat slightly.
5. Enjoy!
Leftovers and Storage
To Store: Store leftover caramelized onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
To Reheat: Rewarm caramelized onions in a small pan or skillet over medium low heat with an extra teaspoon or so of butter (depending on how many you are reheating). You can also reheat in the microwave but I find the stovetop has the best texture- especially for previously frozen ones.
Ways to Use Caramelized Onions
- Topping for Burgers and Sandwiches- Add a layer of flavor to your burgers, sandwiches or wraps with a spoonful of caramelized onions.
- Pasta Dishes- Stir them into pasta for a savory flavor boost.
- Pizza- Use them as a topping for homemade pizza.
- Egg Dishes- Mix caramelized onions into scrambled eggs, omelets or a frittata.
- Hummus- Blend the onions into hummus for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Caramelized Onions
- Medium-Low Heat is Key- Always cook the onions over medium-low heat. This slow cooking allows the natural sugars to caramelize without burning. If they're browning too quickly, reduce the heat further.
- Stir Regularly but Not Too Often- Stir the onions every 3-4 minutes not less and not more. This gives the onions time to brown between stirs but not enough time to burn.
- Cook Uncovered- Leave the pan uncovered while cooking to allow the moisture to evaporate so that the onions caramelize rather than steam.
- Shallow Layer- Make sure your onions are spread out in a thin layer in the pan, with at least half of them touching the cooking surface at all times for even browning.
- Be Patient- Caramelizing onions is a slow process and takes at least 25 to 30 minutes. Resist the urge to rush it- your patience will pay off!
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Recipe Card
Caramelized Onions
Ingredients
- 3 medium yellow onions sliced (about 3 cups)
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt plus additional to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Peel the onions and slice them into thin, even slices (about ¼ inch thick).
- Place a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely.
- Spread the onions out evenly in the bottom of the pan. Cook the onions uncovered over medium-low heat, stirring every 3-4 minutes (I recommend using a timer), for 30-40 minutes until soft and deeply caramelized.*If the onions seem to be browning too quickly between stirs, turn the heat down a bit.
- Enjoy!
Marie says
These turned out perfectly! I’ve tried making them in the past but always ended up with onions that were either steamed or burnt so thank you for this.