Caramelizing onions is a culinary art that requires patience and persistence — but is decidedly worth your while. The truth is that while many of us have the desire to create an amazing meal, we often don’t have the hours it can require. That’s why we’re apt to streamline the process with quick shortcuts — such as using garlic powder instead of mincing garlic bulbs or relying on bouillon rather than the tedious marathon of simmering homemade stock.
Typically, these shortcuts deliver results just as effective as their laborious counterparts. So when you see recipes with caramelized onions, you might be tempted to skip right over that step.
But, don’t! Instead, take the extra time and see for yourself the amazing result you’ll achieve as caramelized onions elevate even the simplest dishes into something impressive.
How to Caramelize Onions
While the following recipes with caramelized onions will offer some additional ways to make caramelized onion quick as part of the dish, it’s worth learning the basic technique so you can easily transform a boring onion into an exciting complement to burgers, sandwiches, soups and stews, just to name a few. Caramelized onions are also great for adding depth to dips and dressings and sumptuousness to spreads and sauces.
To caramelize onions, start by thinly slicing the onion of your choice (yellow or Spanish onions tend to be the most versatile) and heating a couple of tablespoons of oil or butter in a large, heavy skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onions to the skillet in a single layer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 to 20 minutes or until they're softened and translucent.
Next, reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring every 10 to 15 minutes, for another 30 to 40 minutes or until the onions are deep golden brown and caramelized. Be patient, as the slow cooking process is key to allowing the flavors to deepen and transform.
Finally, remove the pan from the heat and let them cool slightly before using. Caramelized onions also freeze well so while you’re at it, whip up an extra batch to keep on hand for the next time you want to enhance the taste of virtually any dish.
Recipes with Caramelized Onions
SWEET APPLEWOOD TURKEY SANDWICH WITH CARAMELIZED ONIONS
Turkey sandwiches are a timeless favorite, with the versatility of turkey pairing perfectly with a wide range of flavors and textures. Here you’ll elevate deli turkey slices with the sweet, deep flavor of caramelized onions infused with French's® Creamy Sweet Applewood Mustard Spread. (You’ll add a dollop of this bold condiment to the rustic bread as well to make the bacon shine.) Then make the sandwich your own by adding your preferred type of cheese and healthy veggies like crisp lettuce, succulent tomatoes and even crunchy cukes.
SPICY MAPLE ONION BURGER
This burger idea comes from our friends at IHOP—who know their way around maple syrup. In this recipe, it bursts out of its breakfast bubble through a concoction that turns up the heat on the sweet staple with McCormick Crushed Red Pepper, McCormick Gourmet Ancho Chile Pepper, McCormick Chili Powder, McCormick Paprika and Zatarain's Cayenne Pepper. Who needs to rely on standard-issue condiments like ketchup and mustard when you can embrace this zesty kick for your burger?
EASY FRENCH ONION SOUP
Indulge in the traditional flavors of France with this effortless version that yields a quick, easy and delicious take on this hearty soup. The star of the show? Those caramelized onions you learned to make above, supplemented with a packet of McCormick Au Jus Gravy Seasoning Mix. Voila! A main or side dish that's special enough for entertaining.
CREAMY FRENCH ONION ONE PAN PASTA
Looking for a creative twist on the classic French onion soup above? Try this recipe that reimagines the iconic French specialty as a skillet dish with tender penne pasta and a savory broth. You’ll brown the caramelized onions right in the skillet for easy prep (and cleanup!). The addition of heavy cream and Gruyere cheese adds a luxurious touch, while McCormick Whole Thyme Leaves and McCormick Freeze-Dried Chives bring a subtle, slightly earthy note.
KENTUCKY BOURBON ONION DIP
We had you at "bourbon," didn’t we? This sophisticated sauce starts with a package of McCormick Onion Gravy Seasoning Mix spiked with one-quarter cup of oaky bourbon and then jazzed up with caramelized onions. A mixture of mayo and sour cream contributes to the velvety texture. Serve it with your choice of dippers — from crackers, chips or veggies as an hors d’ouevre to chicken strips for a main.
Loving caramelized onions?
Here are more recipes featuring delicious caramelized onion:
