Caramelized Onion and Bell Peppers Recipe – Flavorful Side Dish

Caramelized onions and bell peppers are a simple yet incredibly flavorful addition to any meal. Whether served as a side dish, used as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or fajitas, or incorporated into pasta and grain bowls, this dish brings a rich, sweet, and slightly smoky taste. Slowly cooking onions and bell peppers allows their natural sugars to develop, creating a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a deep, caramelized flavor.

This Caramelized Onion and Bell Peppers Recipe is easy to prepare and requires only a few ingredients, making it a perfect addition to both weeknight meals and special occasions. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from the prep work to the best ways to use this versatile dish.

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Nutrition & Instructions

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 1.5g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 250mg

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Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Active Time: 35 minutes

Resting Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Cuisine: American, Mediterranean

Course: Side Dish

Servings: 4

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Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

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Ingredients

• 2 large onions (yellow, white, or red), thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth of flavor)
• ½ tsp dried oregano or thyme (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for extra flavor)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and slicing the onions into thin strips. Cut the bell peppers in half, remove the seeds, and slice them into thin strips as well. If using garlic, mince it finely.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Place a large skillet over medium-low heat and add olive oil (or butter). Allow the oil to warm up for about 30 seconds before adding the onions.

Step 3: Start Cooking the Onions

Add the sliced onions to the pan and sprinkle with salt. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Let them cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring every few minutes. The onions will soften and gradually turn golden brown. If they start sticking, add a splash of water or a little extra oil.

Step 4: Add the Bell Peppers

Once the onions are caramelized, add the sliced bell peppers to the pan. Stir well to combine. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bell peppers are soft and slightly browned.

Step 5: Enhance the Flavor

To deepen the flavor, add black pepper, sugar (if using), balsamic vinegar, and herbs. Stir well and let cook for another 2-3 minutes. If using garlic, add it in the last 2 minutes of cooking to prevent burning.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove from heat and let the mixture rest for 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm as a side dish, topping, or filling for various meals.

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Serving Suggestions

Caramelized onion and bell peppers are incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways:

• As a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or hot dogs
• Mixed into scrambled eggs or omelets for breakfast
• Served over grilled chicken, steak, or fish
• Incorporated into pasta, tacos, or fajitas
• Added to grain bowls or salads for extra flavor

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Tips for Perfect Caramelization

1. Cook Low and Slow – Cooking over low to medium-low heat ensures the onions and peppers caramelize properly without burning.
2. Use a Good Pan – A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan works best for even heat distribution.
3. Add Sugar Sparingly – Onions and bell peppers naturally contain sugar, but a small pinch of sugar helps enhance the caramelization process.
4. Deglaze the Pan – Adding a splash of water, broth, or balsamic vinegar while cooking helps loosen browned bits and intensifies the flavor.
5. Stir Occasionally – Stirring too frequently can prevent proper caramelization, so let the ingredients sit for a minute or two before stirring.

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Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

You can freeze caramelized onions and bell peppers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat with a little oil for a few minutes.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.

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Final Thoughts

This Caramelized Onion and Bell Peppers Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, sweet, and savory flavors. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a versatile dish that enhances any meal. Whether you’re making a sandwich, tacos, or a simple side dish, these caramelized vegetables bring depth and deliciousness to your plate.

So, the next time you have a few onions and bell peppers in your kitchen, try this easy and flavorful recipe—you won’t regret it!