Best Ever Grilled Onions

The aroma of sweet, caramelized onions sizzling on a grill is hard to resist. This recipe for Best Ever Grilled Onions takes just a few minutes to prepare and transforms simple ingredients into a delicious side that enhances any meal. The key to its success lies in the perfect grilling technique that intensifies the natural sweetness of the onions.

This recipe is perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners. They pair beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a flavorful vegetarian option. You can slice the onions a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator for easy grilling later.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The grilling process creates a smoky flavor that elevates the sweetness of the onions.
• Each slice holds its shape, making it easy to manage on the grill.
• The recipe is quick to prep, taking only about 15 minutes.
• It features minimal ingredients, allowing the onions to shine.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best grilled onions.

For the Onions

• 2 sweet onions, such as Walla Walla or Vidalia
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• kosher salt
• fresh ground pepper

Sweet onions are best for this recipe.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use red onions for a sharper flavor.
• Avocado oil can replace olive oil.
• Garlic powder works well if you want extra flavor.
• Use black pepper instead of fresh ground pepper.

How to Make It

Follow these steps to prepare delicious grilled onions.

Prepare the Onions

Hold the onion on a cutting board, with the root end facing sideways. About 3/4 of an inch in from the root, drive a wooden skewer through the center of the onion. Push the skewer all the way through, so that the flat end of the skewer is next to the onion and the pointy end is as far away from the onion as possible.

Slice the Onions

On one side of the skewer, slice the root end off of the onion. On the other side of the skewer, leaving about 3/4 inch of onion, slice the onion so that the skewer is going through the center of the slice.

Use a knife to cut the part of the skewer that is sticking out of the onion. Repeat until both onions have been sliced into even slices, about 3/4 inch thick. Trim the skewers so that there is not excess sticking out of the onion.

Season the Onions

Brush the slices on both sides with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.

Grill on Charcoal

Heat your charcoal grill to medium heat. Place the skewered onions on the grill, cooking for 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are tender and have grill marks.

Grill on Gas

Preheat your gas grill to medium heat. Place the skewered onions on the grill, cooking for 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are tender and have grill marks.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the texture changes after freezing.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes until warm.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the grill is at the right temperature to avoid burning.
• Use skewers of the same length for even cooking.
• Experiment with different types of wood chips for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled steak or chicken for a summer barbecue.
• Add to salads for a sweet, smoky crunch.
• Use as a topping for burgers or sandwiches.