Sauteed Apples and Onions
A classic German-American side dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory. Tender apples and caramelized onions are sautéed in butter, creating a delicious accompaniment for pork chops, sausages, or roasted chicken.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Melt the butter in a large skillet or pan over medium heat
- a.Add the sliced onions and a pinch of the salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until the onions are soft, translucent, and just beginning to turn golden at the edges.
- 2
Add the sliced apples and packed brown sugar to the skillet
- a.Stir well to coat everything evenly. Continue to cook for another 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape and the onions are nicely caramelized.
- 3
Season with the remaining salt and freshly ground black pepper
- a.Pour in the apple cider vinegar to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Cook for 1 more minute until the vinegar has mostly evaporated.
- 4
Remove the skillet from the heat
- a.If using, stir in the fresh thyme leaves. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a deeper, richer flavor, allow the onions to cook low and slow for up to 15-20 minutes before adding the apples to achieve true caramelization.
- 2Choose firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn that won't turn to mush when cooked.
- 3Slice apples and onions to a uniform thickness (about 1/4-inch) to ensure they cook evenly.
- 4This dish is excellent for meal prep. The flavors meld and become even better the next day. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Adapt it for your goals.
Savory Bacon
Cook 4 strips of chopped bacon in the skillet until crisp. Remove the bacon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Use the bacon fat instead of butter to cook the onions and apples. Crumble the cooked bacon over the top before serving.
Warm SpicesWarm Spices
Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice along with the brown sugar for a warmer, more aromatic flavor profile, perfect for autumn.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Instead of thyme, try 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh sage or rosemary for a more robust, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with pork or poultry.
A Touch of HeatA Touch of Heat
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper for a subtle background warmth that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Apples and onions are excellent sources of fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and can help you feel full and satisfied, supporting overall digestive wellness.
Source of Antioxidants
Onions contain quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight inflammation and protect cells from damage. Apples also provide various antioxidants that support overall health and cellular function.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving (about 3/4 cup) contains approximately 150-180 calories, depending on the size of the apples and onions used.