Are you a fan of sweet, sticky, and savory flavors all rolled into one? Look no further! Caramelized onions are a game-changer in the kitchen, adding depth and richness to any dish. From classic comfort foods to elegant appetizers, these 18 mouthwatering recipes showcase the versatility of caramelized onions.
Whether you’re a fan of bold and beefy stews or creamy risottos, these savory delights are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! Simply cook down some onions with a bit of sugar and patience, and you’ll be rewarded with a flavor that’s simply irresistible.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey through the world of caramelized onions, highlighting 18 delicious recipes that showcase their versatility. From sweet potato hash to blue cheese burgers, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the richness of caramelized onions with the creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Spread the caramelized onions over the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Crumble the goat cheese over the onions and sprinkle with thyme.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Balsamic Caramelized Onion Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions, balsamic glaze, and melted mozzarella. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough and place on a baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat with olive oil and garlic until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Spread balsamic glaze evenly over the pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with caramelized onions, mozzarella cheese, and thyme leaves.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy, savory, and aromatic Italian rice dish elevated by the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook onions for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
2. In a separate pot, bring broth to a simmer. Keep warm.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add garlic, mushrooms, and white wine (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add caramelized onions and stir to combine.
6. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring continuously, until liquid is fully absorbed.
7. Remove from heat. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Quiche
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Quiche Recipe
Summary: This quiche recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the creaminess of Gruyère cheese, perfect for brunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Caramelize onions by cooking them in olive oil over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Roll out pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Arrange caramelized onions over the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the onions.
7. Pour egg mixture over the cheese.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Caramelized Onion Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef with sweet caramelized onions, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot; bring stew to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; cook, covered, until beef is tender, about 2-3 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Caramelized Onion and Bacon Jam
Elevate your snacks and sandwiches with this rich and flavorful jam, perfect for caramel lovers and savory enthusiasts alike. This sweet and smoky spread is made by slowly cooking onions and bacon to bring out their natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Reduce heat to low and add the sliced onions to the same skillet. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Add the cooked bacon, olive oil, and brown sugar to the skillet with the onions. Stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Spinach Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, flavorful dip that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the earthiness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onion slices over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, and lemon juice. Mix well.
4. Add the caramelized onions to the spinach mixture and stir until combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the dip to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Cheddar Soup
This rich and creamy soup is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Sweet caramelized onions and sharp cheddar cheese come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Fig Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory flatbread recipe, featuring caramelized onions and fig jam.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made or homemade flatbread (such as pita or ciabatta)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Brush flatbread with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Top flatbread with caramelized onions, fig jam, and fresh thyme leaves (if using).
5. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until crust is crispy and toppings are heated through.
Cooking Time: 40-52 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Sweet Potato Hash
A sweet and savory twist on traditional hash, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the deep caramel flavor of onions.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly. Then, chop into bite-sized pieces and add to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Blue Cheese Burger
This indulgent burger combines the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions with the pungent tang of blue cheese, all on a juicy beef patty.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 oz ground beef
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form ground beef into 4 patties and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. While burgers cook, caramelize onions in a skillet over low heat:
– Add olive oil and butter; sauté onions for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown.
5. Assemble burgers by spreading caramelized onions on the bottom bun, followed by a beef patty, crumbled blue cheese, and any desired toppings.
6. Top with top bun.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory focaccia, featuring caramelized onions and the subtle flavor of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Top with caramelized onions (cook on low heat for 30-40 minutes until golden) and sprinkle thyme leaves evenly.
8. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating a crust.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Apple Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with the sweetness of caramelized onions and crisp apples, all wrapped up in a savory package. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith work well)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Add apples, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, season pork chops with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pork chop with a spoonful of the onion-apple mixture.
6. Place stuffed pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gouda Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with caramelized onions and creamy Gouda. This combination may sound unexpected, but the sweet and savory flavors will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups grated Gouda cheese
– 2 tablespoons whole wheat bread, cut into 1-inch thick slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, toast the bread slices.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter on each toasted slice, followed by a layer of caramelized onions and Gouda cheese.
5. Grill the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Herb Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with the sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the minced garlic and stir to combine.
5. Stir in the caramelized onions and chopped parsley.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Roasted Garlic Pasta
This rich and flavorful pasta dish combines sweet caramelized onions with pungent roasted garlic, creating a match made in heaven. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a special occasion dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4-5 cloves of garlic, separated and peeled
– 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sliced onions with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, toss garlic cloves with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and fragrant.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine roasted onions and garlic in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in remaining 2 tbsp olive oil. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the onion-garlic mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-55 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Brie Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination. Caramelized onions add a depth of flavor, while creamy brie cheese provides a rich and indulgent touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch slices
– 8 ounces brie cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Spread a layer of softened brie cheese on each toasted baguette slice.
5. Top with a spoonful of caramelized onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Lentil Salad
This salad combines the natural sweetness of caramelized onions with the earthy flavor of lentils, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups cooked lentils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark brown and caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, caramelized onions, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 savory caramelized onion recipes! From sweet and savory tarts to hearty stews and soups, these mouthwatering dishes showcase the versatility of caramelized onions. Try pairing them with creamy goat cheese in a tart or with rich gruyère in a quiche. Or, add some smoky flavor with bacon jam or roasted garlic pasta. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, there’s something here for everyone. Explore these recipes and discover the magic of caramelized onions!
