The Absolute Best Liver and Onions recipe is a timeless classic that brings a rich and hearty dish to your dinner table. Thinly sliced beef liver is seared to perfection alongside golden caramelized onions, creating a meal that’s packed with flavor and nostalgia. This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare and perfect for a warm, comforting dinner. Whether you’re looking to explore a traditional take on this dish or need an easy way to get more iron into your diet, this recipe checks all the boxes. Dive in and give it a shot—it might even become a new favorite at your house!
Table of content
- About The Recipe
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- How to Make the Recipe(Step-by-Step)
- Expert Tips for Success
- Variations and Customizations
- Nutritional Information
- Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Recipe Card
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Comments & Reviews
- Social Sharing Options
About The Absolute Best Liver and Onions Recipe
Let’s talk about liver and onions—a dish that’s been a staple in kitchens for generations. There’s something so heartwarming about cooking a recipe that feels like it’s got history baked into it. This Absolute Best Liver and Onions recipe can transport you right back to grandma’s dining table—except now you’re the one doing the cooking. What makes this dish so special? For one, it’s ridiculously rich in flavor thanks to thinly sliced liver cooked just right and those sweet, golden onions that melt in your mouth.This recipe has its roots in timeless comfort food traditions. It’s often considered a nostalgic dish—a little old-fashioned but still very much loved. It was especially popular back when people focused on getting their nutrients from every part of the animal. And guess what? They were on to something because liver is a powerhouse of goodness, rich in iron, protein, and vitamins. Plus, when paired with those caramelized onions, it becomes flat-out irresistible.
For many, liver and onions might sound intimidating, but trust me, it’s easier to make than you’d think. At BellRecipes, we’re all about simplifying these iconic recipes so they can fit effortlessly into your busy weeknight routine. Ready to dive into a dinner that’s both nutritious and full of old-school charm? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, comforting flavors that feel like a warm hug for your taste buds.
- Easy-to-follow recipe perfect for beginner or seasoned cooks.
- Loaded with iron and essential nutrients for a healthy twist on comfort food.
- Caramelized onions add a natural sweetness that complements the savory liver.
- An excellent way to embrace traditional, homestyle cooking.
- Budget-friendly ingredients and quick prep time.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- 1 lb of beef liver, thinly sliced – You can also try chicken or lamb liver if beef isn’t your thing.
- 2 large onions, sliced thin – Yellow onions work great, but white or sweet onions are good substitutes.
- Flour for dredging – If gluten-free, swap it for almond or coconut flour.
- Salt and pepper to taste – A little seasoning goes a long way!
- Butter or cooking oil – Olive oil works well as a butter alternative.
- Optional herbs like parsley for garnish.
How to Make the Recipe (Step-by-Step)
- Prep the liver: Rinse the liver under cold water, pat it dry with a paper towel, and slice it thinly.
- Season and coat: Sprinkle the liver slices with salt and pepper, then lightly coat them with flour.
- Cook the onions: Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sauté the thinly sliced onions until they turn golden brown and caramelized. Set aside.
- Cook the liver: Using the same skillet, add more butter/oil if needed and cook the liver slices over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. They should be browned on the outside and tender inside.
- Combine: Add the onions back into the skillet with the liver. Let everything heat through for about 2 minutes while the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Plate up the liver and onions, sprinkle with optional parsley, and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Success
Soak the liver in milk for 20-30 minutes before cooking if you want to tame its strong flavor.
Don’t overcook the liver—it becomes tough and chewy if left on the heat for too long.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heating.
Add a splash of beef broth or white wine while cooking for an added depth of flavor.
Pair it with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Variations and Customizations
Want to experiment with this recipe? Try using chicken liver for a milder flavor or add garlic to the onions for an extra savory kick. You could also mix in balsamic vinegar during caramelization to give the onions a subtle tang. If you’re on a low-carb diet, skip the flour and dredge the liver in almond flour or just season it directly with salt and pepper.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious! On average, one serving of liver and onions provides about 240 calories, with around 20g of protein and 14g of fats, making it a great choice if you’re looking to add a protein-packed dish to your diet. It’s also rich in iron, Vitamin A, and B vitamins, which help with immunity, eyesight, and energy levels. If you’re watching your cholesterol, you may want to enjoy this dish in moderation and balance it out with lighter meals throughout the week.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll last for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the liver, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between. If you want to freeze it, you can, but keep in mind the texture might change a bit once thawed. Freeze in single-serving portions for easier reheating later.
Recipe Card of Absolute Best Liver and Onions
Ingredients list
- 2 pounds sliced beef liver
- 1.5 cups milk or as needed
- 0.25 cup butter divided
- 2 large Vidalia onions sliced into rings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour or as needed
- salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and have them ready for this delicious cooking adventure.
- Gently rinse the liver slices under cold water and then pat dry with paper towels. Place in a shallow dish and fill with enough milk to cover them entirely. Let it soak while you prepare the onions, or leave aside longer if time allows. This step will help remove any bitter notes.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the onion rings and cook, stirring in butter until they're tender and soft, for about 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer the onions to a bowl and set the skillet aside.
- Place flour on a plate, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Drain the milk from the liver slices and coat them in the flour mixture thoroughly.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and increase the heat to medium-high. Fry the coated liver slices, letting each side get a light brown color, for approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Return the onions to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook until the onions are heated through and your liver is slightly pink inside, or even longer depending on your preference. Serve with gusto and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Recipe Video
Notes
Nutrition
All Your Questions About This Recipe
Can I use chicken liver instead of beef liver?
Yes, chicken liver works well and has a milder flavor. You can follow the same steps to prepare it.
Why is my liver tough and dry?
This usually happens if the liver is overcooked. Be sure to cook it for only 2-3 minutes per side for a tender texture.
Do I have to use milk to soak the liver?
You don’t have to, but soaking the liver in milk helps reduce its strong taste. You can also try lemon juice or buttermilk.
What are good side dishes for liver and onions?
Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a simple salad pair beautifully with this dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Of course! Use almond flour or skip the flour altogether for a gluten-free option.