PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Food and Entertaining
Recipes
Fruits and Vegetables
Onions
How to Cook Pearl Onions 6 Recipe Ratings Reviewed by Jennifer Levasseur
Last Updated: January 30, 2026 References
Caramelizing the Onions
|
Braising the Onions
|
Roasting the Onions
|
Ingredients
|
Video
|
Tips
|
Things You'll Need
|Show more|Show less ARTICLE VIDEO X
This article was reviewed by Jennifer Levasseur. Chef Jennifer Levasseur is a Personal Chef and the Owner of The Happy Cuisiniere based in Breckenridge, Colorado. She has over 12 years of culinary experience and specializes in Mountain and Contemporary Rustic cuisine. Moreover, she can craft dishes and modify menus to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and dairy-free diets. In addition to a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Management from the University of Houston, Chef Jennifer holds Associate’s degrees in Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts from Houston Community College. This article has been viewed 41,330 times.
Pearl onions, also called baby onions, are popular for side dishes because of their sweet, buttery flavor. Since they’re different from regular onions, you might not know how to prepare them if you want to try them for yourself. Luckily, there are lots of easy recipes to follow and make delicious pearl onions. The main prep work you have to do is peeling the onions before cooking them. Then pick a recipe and get started!
Ingredients
Caramelizing the Onions
14-15 oz. (397-425 g) of pearl onions
1 tbsp (14 g) of butter
2 tbsp (25 g) of sugar
1/3 cup (79 ml) of balsamic vinegar
Yields 6 servings
Braising the Onions
1 lb (0.45 kg) of onions
Butter
1 tsp (5.9 g) of sugar
Chicken or vegetable stock
Yields 4 servings
Roasting the Onions
20 oz (568 g) of onions
1/4 cup (237 ml) of balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp (30 ml) of olive oil
2 tbsp (25 g) of thyme
2 tbsp (25 g) dried basil
1 tsp (5.9 g) of salt
1 tsp (5.9 g) of black pepper
1 tsp (5.9 g) of paprika
1 tsp (5.9 g) of rosemary
Yields 4 servings
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 3:
Caramelizing the Onions
1 Melt 1 tbsp (14 g) of butter in a nonstick pan. Scoop 1 tbsp (14 g) of butter into a nonstick saucepan. Place the saucepan on a burner and heat the butter over MEDIUM until it melts.[1]XResearch source
Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option. However, the onions won’t brown and caramelize as well without butter.
2 Saute the onions in the butter for 20 minutes. Add 14-15 oz. (397-425 g) of onions to the pan. Stir the onions every few minutes so they brown evenly and don't stick to the pan. They should turn a nice golden-brown color after 20 minutes or so.[2]XResearch source
You can use frozen or fresh onions for this recipe. If you use fresh ones, remember to peel them first.
Advertisement
3 Add 2 tbsp (25 g) of sugar to the onions and saute for 2 minutes. Measure out 2 tbsp (25 g) of sugar and stir it into the onions. Cook the onions for another 2 minutes to caramelize them. The sugar helps them caramelize and gives them a nice flavor and coating.[3]XResearch source
For a slightly different flavor, try brown sugar instead.[4]XResearch source
Stir in 1/3 cup (79 ml) of balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavor.[5]XResearch source
Try experimenting with other flavors like rosemary, thyme, or white wine.[6]XResearch source
4 Cover the pan and simmer the onions for 25 minutes. Secure the lid and reduce the heat to low so the onions can simmer and soak up the delicious flavors.[7]XResearch source Check on the onions every few minutes to make sure they aren't burning.
Don’t let the onions dry out. If there's no moisture left, add 1 tbsp (15 ml) of water at a time, as needed.
5 Add butter, salt, and pepper before serving the onions. To enhance the caramelized flavor, try stirring in 1/2 tbsp (7 g) of butter, 3/4 tsp (4.5 g) of black pepper, and 1/4 tsp (1.4 g) of salt. Then, serve them and enjoy![8]XResearch source
Top the onions with parsley to give the dish some color and extra taste.
Caramelized onions pair well with chicken or fish dishes. They're also great to snack on all by themselves!
If you have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for 3-5 days.
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 3:
Braising the Onions
1 Saute the onions first if you want them to have a brown exterior. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Then, pour in 1 lb (0.45 kg) of onions. Stir the onions occasionally as they cook so they brown evenly on all sides.[9]XResearch source
Add 1 tsp (5.9 g) of sugar when the onions turn brown for extra flavor.
2 Cover the onions with chicken stock and add seasonings. Pour in enough chicken stock to cover the onions completely. Then, sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste.[10]XResearch source
Experiment with seasonings like red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, or garlic powder.
Use water or vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
If you didn’t brown the onions first, start with this step.
3 Cover the pan and simmer the onions for 25 minutes. Secure the lid on the pan and lower the heat. Leave the onions to simmer and soak up those delicious flavors. You don't have to stir the onions as they simmer.[11]XResearch source
Check the pan every few minutes and lower the heat if the stock is boiling.
The onions will absorb most of the stock as they simmer.
4 Turn the heat up to boil off any excess liquid before serving the onions. If any liquid remains after 25 minutes, turn the heat up to HIGH and bring it to a boil. Keep boiling the liquid until it evaporates. Then, you’re ready to serve![12]XResearch source
Braised onions pair well with beef dishes like steak or roast beef.
Put leftover onions in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. Enjoy them within 3-5 days.
Advertisement Method 3 Method 3 of 3:
Roasting the Onions
1 Preheat the oven to 450 °F (232 °C). Ovens takes a few minute to heat up completely, so go ahead and preheat it. You can do the prep work while it’s heating up.[13]XResearch source
2 Mix the onions, oil, and seasonings together in a bowl. First, add 1-2 tbsp (15 ml) of olive oil. For seasonings, you have lots of choices. Try adding thyme, dried basil, salt, black pepper, paprika, rosemary, or 1/4 cup (237 ml) of balsamic vinegar. Toss everything together with your hands or stir it well.[14]XResearch source
You can use fresh or frozen onions for this recipe. If you use frozen ones, defrost and drain them first.
For a heartier dish, cut up a few potatoes into quarters and toss them in with the onions.
3 Transfer the onions to a greased cookie sheet. Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray to lubricate it. Then, pour the onions onto the pan and spread them out in a single layer so they cook evenly.[15]XResearch source
4 Bake the onions for 25-30 minutes. After 25 minutes, check the onions with a fork to see if they're tender. If they still feel firm, bake them for another 5 minutes and check again. When the onions are tender, take them out of the oven and let them cool off a bit before you serve them.[16]XResearch source
Top the onions with more salt and pepper if you'd like.
This is a great side dish and pairs well with meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes.
Pack up any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for 3-5 days.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search Add New Question Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Read Video Transcript
Things You'll Need
Caramelizing the Onions
Frying pan
Spoon or spatula
Braising the Onions
Frying pan
Spoon or spatula
Roasting the Onions
Baking sheet
Cooking spray
Spoon
Bowl
Tips
If you don’t want to go through the trouble of peeling the onions first, you can use a pack of frozen onions instead. These come already peeled. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
You can always improvise with recipes as well. If you prefer other seasonings or spices, feel free to add them. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How toMake Caramelized OnionsHow toCaramelize GarlicHow toCook Baby CarrotsHow toCook ShallotsHow toCook Sweet PotatoesHow toCook LiverHow to Cook Brussels Sprouts on the Stove, in the Oven & MoreHow toCook CarrotsHow toSeason PeasHow toThin CaramelHow toRoast ParsnipsHow toCook ParsnipsHow toRoast Baby PotatoesHow toCook Liver and Onions Advertisement
Reviewed by: Jennifer Levasseur Personal Chef This article was reviewed by Jennifer Levasseur. Chef Jennifer Levasseur is a Personal Chef and the Owner of The Happy Cuisiniere based in Breckenridge, Colorado. She has over 12 years of culinary experience and specializes in Mountain and Contemporary Rustic cuisine. Moreover, she can craft dishes and modify menus to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and dairy-free diets. In addition to a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Management from the University of Houston, Chef Jennifer holds Associate’s degrees in Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts from Houston Community College. This article has been viewed 41,330 times. 6 votes - 100% Co-authors: 6Updated: January 30, 2026 Views: 41,330 Categories: OnionsArticle SummaryX
To caramelize pearl onions, start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Saute the onions in the pan for 20 minutes, stirring them every few minutes so they cook evenly. Then, stir 2 tablespoons of sugar, which will help the onions caramelize and give them a nice flavor. Cover the pan and simmer over low heat for 25 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of water at a time if the onions start to dry out. Finally, stir in 1/2 tablespoon of butter and some salt and pepper before serving. To learn how to braise and roast pearl onions, keep reading!Did this summary help you?YesNo
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 41,330 times.
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Reviewed by: Jennifer Levasseur Personal Chef Co-authors: 6Updated: January 30, 2026 Views: 41,330100% of voters found this recipe helpful. 6 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote
Quizzes & Games
What Pasta Shape Am I QuizTake QuizGuess the Food QuizTake QuizWhat Food Am I QuizTake QuizWhat Should I Eat for Dinner QuizTake QuizWhat Should I Bake QuizTake QuizWhat's the Best Meal Kit for Me QuizTake Quiz
What Emojis Mean Sex?100+ Flirty Things to Say to a Girl & Boost Her Self-EsteemType A B C D Personality TestKissing Tips: The wikiHow Guide to the Perfect KissHow toTell That Your Crush Likes You BackCat Sleeping Positions: 22 Common Poses Explained
Watch Articles
How toCalculate the Volume of a PyramidThe Best Way to Exfoliate Your Scalp (Plus, What to Use)How toSave Money as a KidHow toPolish Aluminum2 Easy Renter-Friendly Options to Hang Your Window TreatmentsHow to Insert Slide Numbers in PowerPoint
Trending Articles
Are You Unc? Discover How Old Your Vibe IsWhat's My Hottest Feature QuizGen Beta Slang Quiz24 Different Types of Bras ExplainedHow to Play the Concentrate Game (For A Little Scare!)What Does Your Rice Purity Score Really Mean?
Quizzes & Games
Pizza CalculatorWhat Veggie Am I QuizTake QuizWhat Crystal Do I Need QuizTake QuizHow Southern Am I QuizTake QuizRandom Recipe GeneratorGenerateGuess Where I Grew Up Based On Food QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Food and Entertaining
Recipes
Fruits and Vegetables
Onions
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Home
About wikiHow
Experts
Jobs
Contact Us
Site Map
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell or Share My Info
Not Selling Info
Contribute
Follow Us
×
wikiHow Tech Help Pro:
Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve
How toCaramelize Garlic 
How toCook Shallots 
How toCook Liver 
How to Cook Brussels Sprouts on the Stove, in the Oven & More 
How toSeason Peas 
How toRoast Baby Potatoes 
Advertisement 
Reviewed by: Jennifer Levasseur Personal Chef This article was reviewed by Jennifer Levasseur. Chef Jennifer Levasseur is a Personal Chef and the Owner of The Happy Cuisiniere based in Breckenridge, Colorado. She has over 12 years of culinary experience and specializes in Mountain and Contemporary Rustic cuisine. Moreover, she can craft dishes and modify menus to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and dairy-free diets. In addition to a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Management from the University of Houston, Chef Jennifer holds Associate’s degrees in Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts from Houston Community College. This article has been viewed 41,330 times. 6 votes - 100% Co-authors: 6 Updated: January 30, 2026 Views: 41,330 Categories: Onions Article SummaryX
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Generate
Take Quiz 
542 
1 Melt 1 tbsp (14 g) of butter in a nonstick pan. Scoop 1 tbsp (14 g) of butter into a nonstick saucepan. Place the saucepan on a burner and heat the butter over MEDIUM until it melts.[1] 
2 Saute the onions in the butter for 20 minutes. Add 14-15 oz. (397-425 g) of onions to the pan. Stir the onions every few minutes so they brown evenly and don't stick to the pan. They should turn a nice golden-brown color after 20 minutes or so.[2] 
4 Cover the pan and simmer the onions for 25 minutes. Secure the lid and reduce the heat to low so the onions can simmer and soak up the delicious flavors.[7] Check on the onions every few minutes to make sure they aren't burning. 
3 Cover the pan and simmer the onions for 25 minutes. Secure the lid on the pan and lower the heat. Leave the onions to simmer and soak up those delicious flavors. You don't have to stir the onions as they simmer.[11] 
1 Preheat the oven to 450 °F (232 °C). Ovens takes a few minute to heat up completely, so go ahead and preheat it. You can do the prep work while it’s heating up.[13] 
4 Bake the onions for 25-30 minutes. After 25 minutes, check the onions with a fork to see if they're tender. If they still feel firm, bake them for another 5 minutes and check again. When the onions are tender, take them out of the oven and let them cool off a bit before you serve them.[16]