Description
This Caramelized Onion Beef Liver recipe combines tender slices of beef liver with deeply caramelized onions, garlic, thyme, and a savory pan sauce. It’s a rich, comforting dish that brings out the best in liver, ideal for those seeking traditional flavors with a gourmet feel. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery noodles, or fresh greens.
Ingredients
1 pound beef liver, sliced ½ inch thick
2 to 3 large yellow onions, sliced into rings
3 tablespoons butter (divided)
2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup all-purpose flour (optional, for dredging)
⅓ cup beef broth (optional, for deglazing)
Instructions
1. Soak the liver in milk or lemon water for 30–60 minutes to remove bitterness. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized. Remove from pan.
3. Season the liver with salt and pepper. If desired, dredge each slice in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Heat the remaining butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the liver for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still tender inside. Do not overcrowd the pan.
5. Deglaze the skillet with beef broth, scraping up the flavorful bits. Return the onions and liver to the skillet. Stir gently and cook together for another 2–3 minutes to heat through.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
Do not overcook the liver — just 2–3 minutes per side keeps it tender.
True caramelized onions take time, so be patient for the best flavor.
Deglazing with broth adds a quick pan sauce that boosts flavor and moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 310mg
Keywords: Beef liver, caramelized onions, iron-rich, skillet dinner, old-fashioned recipe