Quick Onions and liver recipe Recipe

I used to avoid organ meats at the butcher counter because I remembered them being tough and overly strong. That all changed when I discovered that my simple Onions and liver recipe could result in a dish that is surprisingly tender and mild.

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The secret lies in not overcooking the meat and pairing it with plenty of sweet, golden rings of onion. This classic meal is incredibly nutrient-dense and comes together in just one skillet for a hassle-free weeknight dinner.

Why This Onions and liver recipe is a Keeper

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Why This Onions and liver recipe is a Keeper

 

This dish proves that simple ingredients often yield the most satisfying results when prepared with care. I find that the natural sweetness of caramelized onions cuts right through the richness of the beef for a perfect flavor balance.

You can have this entire nutritious meal on the table in about thirty minutes, making it faster than ordering takeout. I appreciate how budget-friendly this cut of meat is while still delivering a high-quality, protein-packed dinner.

One of the best things about this method is that it creates a lovely fond on the bottom of the pan that adds depth to every bite. I always feel good serving this to my family because it is packed with iron and vitamins without sacrificing taste.

If you enjoyed this hearty main dish, I highly recommend trying my Ultimate Creamy Chicken Broccoli Soup Recipe for another cozy option. Fans of savory flavors will also love the bold spices in my Savory Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Onions and liver recipe

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Ingredients You'll Need for Onions and liver recipe

 

Here are the pantry staples and fresh items required for this dish:

  • Yellow onion: Thinly sliced and separated into rings to create a sweet topping.
  • Olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and sear the meat; you can divide the amount as needed.
  • Beef liver: Ideally use calf’s liver for the most tender texture and mildest flavor.
  • Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth that complements the strong flavor of the meat.
  • Smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the crust.
  • Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the meat before it hits the hot pan.
  • Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat to balance the sweetness of the onions.

My Method for Perfect Onions and liver recipe

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My Method for Perfect Onions and liver recipe

 

Let’s get cooking with this straightforward process:

  1. Start by preparing the meat to ensure it cooks evenly and stays tender. I arrange the liver slices on a large cutting board or plate and thoroughly blot them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Then, I sprinkle them generously on both sides with the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Next, I focus on building the flavor base with the vegetables. I heat half of the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add the onion rings. I cook them, stirring frequently, for about seven to eight minutes until they are soft and golden brown, adjusting the heat if they start to burn.
  3. Once the onions are caramelized, I remove them with a slotted spoon to a separate plate and cover them with foil to keep warm. I carefully wipe the hot skillet clean with paper towels to remove any burnt bits, then add the remaining olive oil and lower the heat to medium.
  4. Now it is time to cook the meat quickly to preserve its texture. I add the liver slices to the pan, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, and cook them for just three minutes per side. I am careful not to overcook them, as they should remain slightly pink in the center to stay tender rather than turning grainy.
  5. Finally, I assemble the dish immediately while everything is still hot. I arrange the cooked liver slices on serving plates and pile the reserved warm onions generously on top.

Pro Tips for Onions and liver recipe

The most critical rule I follow is to avoid overcooking the meat at all costs. I aim for a medium-rare doneness because cooking it past this point turns the texture tough, grainy, and unpleasant.

If you can only find mature beef liver instead of calf’s liver, I suggest soaking it in milk for thirty minutes before cooking. This simple step helps pull out the strong metallic flavor that some people find off-putting.

I always make sure my skillet is wiped clean between cooking the onions and the liver. This prevents the residue from the onions from burning and creating a bitter taste on the seared meat.

How to Serve This Onions and liver recipe

I love balancing the richness of this main course with a light, fresh vegetable side dish. A crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some simple steamed green beans works beautifully to cut through the savory flavors.

Mashed potatoes are another classic pairing that I turn to when I want a truly hearty meal. The creamy texture of the potatoes soaks up any juices from the meat and onions for a satisfying bite.

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Onions and liver recipe

Liver and Onions Recipe


  • Author: Amelia Bryan
  • Total Time: 30 min
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A simple and tender liver and onions recipe that transforms beef liver into a savory, delicious meal with sweet caramelized onions.


Ingredients

  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 pound beef liver, thinly sliced (calf’s liver preferred)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt

Instructions

  1. Arrange the liver slices on a cutting board and blot them thoroughly dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add the onion rings, and cook for about 7-8 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Remove the onions to a plate and cover with foil; carefully wipe the skillet clean with paper towels and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  4. Add the liver slices to the pan (in batches if needed) and cook for roughly 3 minutes per side, ensuring they do not overcook.
  5. Remove the liver from the pan, place on serving plates, and top immediately with the warm sautéed onions.

Notes

Soak mature liver in milk for 30 minutes before cooking to reduce metallic taste. Do not overcook.

  • Prep Time: 12 min
  • Resting Time:
  • Cook Time: 18 min
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 225
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 219 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: Onions and liver recipe, easy liver recipe, beef liver, healthy dinner

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