Best Caramelized Onions Recipe

Transform ordinary onions into a decadent side dish or flavorful topping! This recipe guides you through the slow caramelization process, resulting in intensely sweet, deeply colored onions with a rich, complex flavor. Perfect for burgers, steaks, pizzas, or enjoyed on their own.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 80 mins
Calories 346.6 kcal
Protein 6g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Best Caramelized Onions

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Best Caramelized Onions

  • 2 pounds yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Red Wine Vinegar
  • Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper

How to Make Best Caramelized Onions

  1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add 2 pounds of thinly sliced yellow onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 10-15 minutes).
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove the lid, increase the heat to medium-low, and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the onions begin to brown (about 10-15 minutes).
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for another 10 minutes.
  6. Repeat steps 3 and 5 once more.
  7. Add 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
  8. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the vinegar has evaporated (about 5 minutes).
  9. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

7 g

Sugar

58g

Fat

73g

Carbs

11g