Fast Caramelized Onions
Fast Caramelized Onions is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 50 calories per serving. Recipe by Joshua Weissman Recipes on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 35 min
Cost: $1.18 total, $0.30 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 large Yellow Onion (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (use a neutral oil if preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (prefer kosher or sea salt)
- 1 pinch Granulated Sugar (just a pinch to boost caramelization)
- 1 tablespoon Water (for deglazing; can use broth for extra flavor)
Instructions
Slice the onions
Trim the root and stem ends, peel the onions, and slice them thinly (about 1‑2 mm) for even caramelization.
Time: PT5M
Heat the pan
Place the saucepan over medium‑high heat and add the olive oil (or butter). Let the oil shimmer but not smoke.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: Medium‑high
Add onions and seasoning
Add the sliced onions, sprinkle the salt and a pinch of sugar, and stir to coat evenly.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: Medium‑high
Initial browning
Let the onions cook, stirring frequently. After a few minutes they will start to brown and may stick to the bottom.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: Medium‑high
Deglaze with water
When the onions begin to brown aggressively (almost burning), splash in 1 Tbsp of water, stirring quickly to loosen the browned bits.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: Medium‑high
Repeat burn‑deglaze cycles
Continue cooking, allowing the onions to brown, then deglaze with another splash of water as needed. Repeat this cycle for 8‑10 minutes total until the onions are deep amber and sweet.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: Medium‑high
Finish and serve
Remove the pan from heat, give the onions a final stir, and transfer to a serving bowl. Use immediately or store as directed.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 50
- Protein
- 1 g
- Carbohydrates
- 10 g
- Fat
- 2 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Vegan (if oil only), Gluten‑Free
Allergens: Dairy (if butter is used)
Last updated: April 19, 2026






