Name: Caramelized Onions for Burgers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2½ tbsp 35g unsalted butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 large yellow onions (about 1 lb, 450g, thinly sliced); ¼ tsp salt; 2 tbsp 30ml water, white wine, or beer (for deglazing)

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Want to elevate your burger game? Caramelized Onions for Burgers transform ordinary onions into a sweet, golden topping with rich, savory flavor. This savory onion topping is simple to make with just a few ingredients, perfect for burgers, sandwiches, or more. Try this golden caramelized onions recipe for a gourmet touch at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Just onions, butter, oil, and salt—likely already in your pantry.
Gourmet Flavor: Sweet, savory onions rival your favorite burger joint.
Perfect Pairing: Enhances beef, turkey, or veggie burgers with ease.
Make-Ahead: Prep days in advance for quick burger nights.
Versatile: Great on burgers, steaks, or even pizza.

Ingredients for Caramelized Onions for Burgers

Here’s what you’ll need for this savory onion topping (serves 4–6):

For the Onions:

2½ tbsp (35g) unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
2 large yellow onions (about 1 lb, 450g), thinly sliced
¼ tsp salt
2 tbsp (30ml) water, white wine, or beer (for deglazing)

Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spatula
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons

Ingredient Tips

Onions: Yellow onions balance sweetness; Vidalia or Walla Walla add extra sweetness.
Butter: Swap with extra olive oil for a dairy-free golden caramelized onions recipe.
Deglazing Liquid: Water is neutral; wine or beer adds depth to this savory onion topping.
Oil: Use neutral oils like vegetable or canola if olive oil isn’t available.
Salt: A pinch enhances flavor; adjust to taste.

Directions for Caramelized Onions for Burgers

Let’s make this savory Caramelized Onions for Burgers topping!

Melt Butter and Oil

In a large skillet, I melt 2½ tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-low heat until smooth, creating a rich base for this golden caramelized onions recipe.

Cook Onions

I add 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced, and sprinkle with ¼ tsp salt. I cook uncovered over low heat for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and soft, stirring more frequently in the last 15 minutes to prevent sticking, for this savory Caramelized Onions for Burgers topping.

Deglaze Skillet

In the final minutes, I add 2 tbsp water, white wine, or beer, scraping up browned bits with a wooden spatula for extra flavor. I stir until the liquid evaporates, leaving glossy onions for this savory onion topping.

Serve

I serve the hot Caramelized Onions for Burgers atop burgers, steaks, or other dishes, enjoying the sweet, savory flavor.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 5–10 minutes
Cook Time: 45–60 minutes
Total Time: 50–70 minutes
Servings: 4–6 (about ¼ cup per serving)
Calories: ~80–90 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 6g carbs, 1g protein, 7g fat, 1g fiber

Variations for Caramelized Onions for Burgers

Try these twists on this golden caramelized onions recipe:

Onion Swap: Use Vidalia for Sweet Caramelized Onions or red onions for a sharper flavor.
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with 3–4 tbsp olive oil for a vegan savory onion topping.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar during deglazing for tangy golden caramelized onions.
Herb Add-In: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary at the end for an herby savory onion topping.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy twist on this golden caramelized onions recipe.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with a grilled chicken sandwich for a savory contrast.
Serve over roasted pork for a hearty meal.
Enjoy with a craft beer for a casual pairing.

Storage

I store this savory onion topping in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. For freezing, I portion into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for up to 3 months. I thaw overnight and reheat in a skillet over low heat for 2–3 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until warm.

Serving Tips

Presentation: Pile this savory Caramelized Onions for Burgers topping high on burgers.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh thyme for a pop of color.
Pairing: Pair with grilled meats or crusty bread to complement the golden caramelized onions.
Portion Size: About ¼ cup per person as a topping.
Occasions: Ideal for burger nights, BBQs, or cozy dinners.

FAQs About Caramelized Onions for Burgers

Here are answers to some common questions about Caramelized Onions for Burgers:

What onions are best for this recipe?
Yellow onions offer balanced sweetness for this savory onion topping; Vidalia adds extra sweetness.

Can I speed up the caramelizing process?
Low heat is key for this golden caramelized onions recipe; high heat risks burning.

How do I store this savory onion topping?
Keep in the fridge for 7 days or freeze for 3 months for Caramelized Onions for Burgers.

What else can I use these golden caramelized onions for?
Try them on steaks, sandwiches, or pizza for a versatile savory onion topping.

Can I make this golden caramelized onions recipe vegan?
Yes, use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free Caramelized Onions for Burgers.

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Conclusion

Caramelized Onions for Burgers are a sweet, savory topping that elevates any dish with minimal effort. This golden caramelized onions recipe is a must-try. Make this savory onion topping, share with loved ones, and enjoy the gourmet flavors!

Caramelized Onions for Burgers

Caramelized Onions for Burgers are a sweet, savory topping that elevates any dish with minimal effort. This golden caramelized onions recipe is a must-try.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 10

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 90 kcal

Ingredients

2½ tbsp 35g unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
2 large yellow onions about 1 lb, 450g, thinly sliced
¼ tsp salt
2 tbsp 30ml water, white wine, or beer (for deglazing)