Caramelized Onion Butter

This Caramelized Onion Butter is a must-have for your holiday table! It's an easy compound butter made with slow-cooked caramelized onions, butter, and fresh thyme. Perfect for steak butter, crusty bread, baked potatoes, grilled chicken, and roasted vegetables.

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Ingredients
For onions
large yellow onion1
butter1tbsp
olive oil1tbsp- salt1pinch
For butter
unsalted butter1/2cup- kosher salt1/2tsp
black pepper1/4tsp
fresh thyme1tsp
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Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
63.8kcal (3.19%)
Protein
0.1g (0.12%)
Carbs
0.0g
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
2.3g
Unhealthy Fat
4.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Caramelized Onion Butter
How to Make Caramelized Onion Butter
- Step 1
Mash caramelized onions into softened butter with salt, pepper, and thyme until smooth.
How to Caramelize Onions
- Step 1
Heat butter and oil in a wide pan over medium-low until melted.
- Step 2
Add onions, stir to coat, and spread evenly.
- Step 3
Cook slowly for 15–20 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until soft and translucent.
- Step 4
Add salt and lower heat slightly. Continue cooking for 30–45 minutes, letting onions sit between stirs for deep caramelization. Deglaze with 1–2 tbsp water as needed to prevent sticking.
- Step 5
Onions are done when deep amber, jammy, and sweet. Taste and adjust salt; add pepper at the end if desired.
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Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
63.8kcal (3.19%)
Protein
0.1g (0.12%)
Carbs
0.0g
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
2.3g
Unhealthy Fat
4.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Deglaze the pan with a small amount of water to prevent onions from sticking and burning.
Use fresh thyme for the best flavor in the butter.
Let the onions caramelize slowly for the richest taste.
FAQS
Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, you can use white or red onions, but yellow onions are ideal for their sweetness when caramelized.
How long can I store the Caramelized Onion Butter?
You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I freeze the butter?
Yes, you can freeze the butter for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
What dishes pair well with Caramelized Onion Butter?
It pairs well with steak, crusty bread, baked potatoes, grilled chicken, and roasted vegetables.
Can I make this butter vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use olive oil for caramelizing the onions.
Carly's Cookbook
(@carlyscookbook)
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