How to Caramelize Onions

5 from 3 votes

Learn how to make caramelized onions with my simple technique and step-by-step tutorial using onions and oil - perfect on burgers or pizza!

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Let me teach you how to caramelize onions. They are that silky, sweet, and savory ingredient that amps up deliciousness in dishes like bistro burgers and bbq chicken pizza. All you need are onions, oil, and some time in the kitchen.

Caramelizing onions on a cast iron skillet with wooden skillet

Onions are not just a tasty garnish on the side of a plate! They add nutritional value – with small amounts of vitamins A, C, B vitamins, calcium, iron, potassium, and antioxidants which may help fight cancer.

Ingredients to make caramelized onions

  1. Onions: Most caramelized onions use white or yellow onions. The sweet varieties – like Vidalla – caramelize easily because of their higher sugar content, but purple onions (the onion in BBQ pizza) are good, too.
  2. Oil: Opinions are split on this. Some swear by a neutral oil like canola which allows the onion taste to come through. Others use olive oil, and some mix olive oil and butter. The upshot: use what you like.
  3. Sugar: This is an optional short cut. Adding a sprinkle of sugar (brown or white) once the onions are soft can speed up the browning process. Note, the onions will be good but not reach full caramelization.
  4. Balsamic vinegar: In addition, a splash of balsamic vinegar (or wine,) to deglaze the pan at the end of the cooking process maximizes flavor and color because the browned bits stuck to the pan are incorporated into the onions. Vinegar’s tartness also balances out the sweet flavor of the onions.
3 halves onions in a large white bowl

How to caramelize onions

  • First, julienne each peeled and halved onion.
Slicing half an onion on cutting board
  • Separate the slices.
Large bowl of sliced onions
  1. Heat a large, wide pan with low sides on medium-high heat. (A cast-iron skillet is ideal and if you have a choice, avoid nonstick pans that do not foster the flavorful build-up of those flavorful browned bits.) Add the oil to the pan. When there is a wisp of smoke, carefully – to avoid the hot oil splattering – add in the onions.
  2. Stir periodically, for 10 minutes, allowing them to color. Let the pan regain heat before stirring again.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to cook, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat to low and continue to cook until evenly caramelized about 15 more minutes.
4 images to show how the onions start and what they look like at each stage

Tips for making the best caramelized onions

  1. Definitely, use a wide skillet not a saucepan: This gives more surface area for the onions to spread out and allows the water in them to evaporate – a key to browning.
  2. Always, watch the heat: You don’t want the onions to get too brown too fast or become crispy. Make micro-adjustments in your flame or burner setting as necessary.
  3. Remember, water is your friend: Water evaporation is part of the caramelization process but as the onions start to cook down – and they cook down A LOT – a splash of water can help prevent burning.
  4. And your wooden spoon is a friend, too: A vigorous stir can keep things moving if the onions are browning too fast.
  5. Allow the onions to cool in the pan if possible. This creates a steam that helps release the goodies stuck to the bottom and also help achieve a better color in the end.

Recipes with caramelized onions

Caramelized onions in a white bowl

Frequently asked questions

How long do caramelized onions keep in the refrigerator.

In a tightly sealed container, these are good for five days.

Can I freeze these onions?

Definitely! Some people even use the ice cube tray method to have small bites of caramelized goodness always on hand. They will keep for up to six months.

I notice you do not use salt in this recipe. Is it okay to add salt?

Yes, some people like to add a teaspoon of salt at the beginning. Some like to salt at the end. I prefer my onions straight up.

Wooden spoon scooping caramelized onions

For more cooking resources:

Is there anyone who doesn’t like caramelized onions? On burgers, as a relish beside grilled meat, or piled on pizza they add restaurant-quality zing to any home meal.

If you’ve found this cooking resource for How to Caramelize Onions helpful or if you’ve tried any recipe on FeelGoodFoodie, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave me a comment below! I would love to hear about your experience with this technique. And if you snapped some shots of it, share it with me on Instagram so I can repost on my stories!

How to Caramelize Onions

Learn how to make caramelized onions with my simple technique and step-by-step tutorial using onions and oil – perfect on burgers or pizza!
5 from 3 votes
Servings 3 servings
Calories 209
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 yellow onions peeled and halved
  • 4 tablespoons oil vegetable or canola

Instructions

  • Julienne slice each onion half and separate the slices.
  • Heat a large pan with low sides on medium high heat. Add the oil in the pan, and when there is a wisp of smoke, carefully add the onions to the pan.
  • Stir periodically, for 10 minutes, allowing them to color and let the pan regain heat before stirring again
  • Reduce heat to medium low and continue to cook, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes.
  • Reduce heat to low and continue to cook until evenly caramelized, about 15 more minutes.
  • Turn off the heat and spread the onions out in the pan and allow to cool. They should be a rich brown and soft, but not mushy.

Notes

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will last up to four days in the fridge.
Photo Credit: Erin Jensen

Nutrition

Calories: 209kcal, Carbohydrates: 10g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 19g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 4mg, Potassium: 161mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 5g, Vitamin C: 8mg, Calcium: 25mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.

Cuisine American
Course: Ingredient, Side

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