How to Caramelize Onions

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An image showing golden-brown caramelized onions.

5 from 7 votes

Caramelized Onions are a sweet and savory staple which can be used in countless recipes for burgers, steaks, chicken, dip, and so much more! Thinly sliced onions are sautéed in oil and butter over medium-low heat for 40-50 minutes, until golden-brown and rich in flavor.

Prep Time5

Cook Time45

Total Time50

Course: Appetizer, Dinner, lunch

Cuisine: American

Servings: servings

Author: London Brazil

Ingredients

2 lbs. sweet onions about 4-5 small onions
2 tbsp. olive oil
1 tbsp. butter
½ tsp. salt to taste
sugar optional*
water optional*

Instructions

Thinly cut onions into ¼-inch slices.
Add olive oil and onions to a large stainless steel skillet over medium-low heat.
Cook onions for 40-50 minutes, stirring every 3-5 minutes.*
* (In the beginning you can wait a little bit longer between stirs. Towards the end you will want to keep a close eye on the onions, to prevent burning.)
After about 30 minutes, the onions will start to become a light yellow color. Add butter and stir to combine.
You’ll know the onions are done cooking when they reach a caramel color and have a natural sweetness to them.
Serve caramelized onions with your favorite filet mignon, baked chicken, or recipe of choice.

Video

Notes

Meal Prep and Storage

To Prep-Ahead: Onions can be pre-sliced and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.
To Store: Leftovers may be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.
To Freeze: Leftovers may be stored in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag for up to 3 months - an ice cube tray or muffin tin can also be used to make individual portions before freezing.
To Reheat: Depending on storage method and intended use, when frozen it is recommended to put the onions in the fridge to thaw at least an hour ahead of use. The onions can be reheated over low heat in a skillet, or in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through.

Nutrition