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Classic Beef Liver with Caramelized Onions Recipe

Classic Beef Liver with Caramelized Onions Recipe


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4.8 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent classic beef liver with caramelized onions brings rustic French countryside comfort to your dinner table. Delicate organ meat paired with sweet golden onions creates a hearty, protein-packed meal rich with traditional flavors you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (454 grams) beef liver, thinly sliced
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Cooking Fats:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the beef liver by thoroughly dabbing it with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture, ensuring a better sear and texture.
  2. Season both sides of the liver generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, aromatic garlic powder, and smoky paprika for enhanced flavor profile.
  3. In a large skillet, melt olive oil and butter over medium heat, creating a rich cooking medium for the onions.
  4. Add sliced onions to the skillet, cooking slowly for 10-15 minutes while stirring intermittently until they transform into a golden, caramelized state with deep, sweet undertones.
  5. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the caramelized onions to intensify their flavor, then transfer to a separate plate and keep warm.
  6. Return the same skillet to medium-high heat, adding remaining olive oil and butter to create a sizzling cooking surface.
  7. Carefully place liver slices in a single layer, allowing each piece to cook for 2-3 minutes per side until exterior develops a beautiful brown crust while maintaining a pink, tender interior.
  8. Remove liver from heat and let it rest momentarily to redistribute internal juices and maintain optimal tenderness.
  9. Plate the liver and generously crown with the luxurious caramelized onions.
  10. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant, herbaceous touch and visual appeal.

Notes

  • Select fresh, high-quality beef liver from a trusted butcher to ensure the best flavor and texture.
  • Pat the liver completely dry to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear without steaming the meat.
  • Marinate the liver in milk for 30 minutes before cooking to reduce the strong metallic taste and tenderize the meat.
  • Use a cast-iron skillet for the most even heat distribution and beautiful caramelization on both the onions and liver.
  • Slice the liver thinly and uniformly to guarantee consistent cooking and prevent tough, chewy sections.
  • Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice to balance the rich, intense flavor of the liver.
  • For a low-carb option, serve with roasted cauliflower or zucchini instead of starchy sides.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 75 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 300 mg