Classic Beef Liver and Onions Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb beef liver, sliced (about 1/4″ thick)
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2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
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1 cup milk (or buttermilk – optional, for soaking)
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2 tbsp flour (for light dredging)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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3 tbsp butter (or a mix of butter and oil)
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Optional: fresh thyme, garlic, or a splash of balsamic for a twist
Instructions:
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Soak the liver (optional but recommended)
Place liver slices in a bowl and cover with milk. Let sit for 30–60 minutes. This helps mellow out any strong, metallic taste and tenderizes the meat. -
Prep onions:
While liver soaks, slice onions and start sautéing them in 1–2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Cook slowly (15–20 minutes) until golden, soft, and slightly caramelized. Set aside. -
Dredge the liver:
Pat the liver dry and lightly dredge in seasoned flour (salt, pepper, maybe a little paprika). -
Cook the liver:
In the same pan (add more butter or oil if needed), cook the liver over medium-high heat, about 2–3 minutes per side. You want it browned outside but still slightly pink inside for the best texture. Overcooked liver gets tough fast! -
Combine & serve:
Add the onions back to the pan to warm everything through. You can deglaze the pan with a splash of broth, wine, or balsamic if you want a little sauce action.
Serve with:
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Mashed potatoes
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Rice or buttered noodles
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Steamed greens or peas
Want a Southern-style twist? Or maybe liver and onions with gravy? I can hook you up with those too.