How To Caramelize Onions

Caramelized onions are a powerful, affordable way to add great flavor to soups, burgers, mashed potatoes, pizza, grits, sandwiches, grilled meats, and more. Simply follow our step-by-step instructions.

Start Slideshow

1 of 5

Step 1: Add Onions

Heat 2 Tbsp. olive oil in a skillet, and add 4 lb. (about 12 cups) chopped or sliced sweet onions such as Vidalia, Texas 1015, Maui, or Oso Sweet. Sugar may be added to speed caramelization. A teaspoon of chopped fresh herbs or 1/2 tsp. dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary lend nice flavor.

2 of 5

Step 2: Cook

Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions begin to turn golden and liquid has evaporated (about 20 minutes). (Increase heat slightly if liquid doesn’t begin to evaporate.)

3 of 5

Step 3: Cook Until Golden-Brown

Continue to cook about 20 more minutes until onions develop a deep golden-brown color. Expect some onions to stick to the pan; in fact, allow it.

4 of 5

Caramelized Onions Recipes

Caramelized Sweet Onions (full recipe)
Sweet Onion 'n' Fruit Salad (pictured)
Caramelized Onion-and-Gorgonzola Mashed Potatoes
Caramelized Onion Flatbread
Caramelized Onion Dip
Caramelized Onion-and-Goat Cheese Bread
Pepper Burgers with Caramelized Onions

Replay gallery

1 of 5

Step 1: Add Onions

1 of 5

2 of 5

Step 2: Cook

2 of 5

3 of 5

Step 3: Cook Until Golden-Brown

3 of 5

4 of 5

Caramelized Onions Recipes

4 of 5

Up Next

Everything in This Slideshow

Account

More

How To Caramelize Onions

1 of 5

Step 1: Add Onions

1 of 5

2 of 5

Step 2: Cook

2 of 5

3 of 5

Step 3: Cook Until Golden-Brown

3 of 5

4 of 5

Caramelized Onions Recipes

4 of 5

Share the Gallery

Up Next

Share the Gallery