Learn tips for frying onions on a griddle for burgers, fajitas, and more. This simple method works in a cast iron skillet, on a Blackstone griddle, or a Traeger Flatrock grill.
Table of Contents
Scroll to the bottom for a printable recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 large yellow onion
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground pepper
- 1 tbsp butter
How to fry onions on a griddle
- Prep the onion: trim the root and stem ends, peel, and slice into ½” rounds or halve and cut into half-moons. Separate the slices into individual pieces so they contact the griddle evenly.
- Heat: preheat a portion of your griddle to medium. When it’s hot, add the olive oil and spread the onions in a single layer. Season with garlic salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Sauté: flip the onions regularly so they cook evenly. After about 5 minutes, add the butter to boost flavor and help tenderize the onions. Continue cooking 5–10 minutes more, flipping often, until they reach your desired color and softness. If you’re also cooking burgers or steak, lower the heat to medium-low so the onions cook gently in the background and don’t burn. Remove when done and serve.
Use these griddled onions on burgers, fajitas, sandwiches, or as a simple side.
Try these easy griddle recipes…
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How To Cook Griddled Ribeye Steaks -
How To Cook Sirloin Steak On Griddle
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Italian Marinade For Grilled Foods
See more griddle recipes for inspiration.
Pro tip: a reliable BBQ meat thermometer helps you cook proteins to the perfect temperature every time.
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If you have questions about this method, leave a comment and I’ll help troubleshoot timing, heat, or substitutions.
— Jenna
How to Fry Onions On a Griddle Recipe
Equipment
- Griddle or cast iron skillet
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 large yellow onion
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground pepper
- 1 tbsp butter (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the onion: trim, peel, and slice into ½” rounds or half-moons. Separate the pieces.
- Preheat a section of the griddle to medium. Add oil and spread the onions in a single layer. Season with garlic salt and pepper.
- Flip the onions regularly. After about 5 minutes, add butter if using. Continue to cook another 5–10 minutes, flipping often, until tender and browned to your liking. If cooking other items at the same time, lower heat to medium-low so the onions cook gently without burning. Remove and serve.
Notes
Adjust cooking time and heat based on griddle surface and thickness of slices. For caramelized onions, cook longer on lower heat until deep brown and sweet.
Nutrition
Per serving (approx): Calories 67 kcal | Carbohydrates 3 g | Protein 0.3 g | Fat 6 g | Sodium 314 mg | Fiber 1 g