Sausages with Caramelized Onions

Ingredients:

• 10–12 fresh sausages (pork, beef, chicken, or bratwurst – your choice)
• 3 large onions, sliced thick
• 3 tbsp olive oil (or butter for extra richness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 tsp brown sugar (helps onions caramelize)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a deeper flavor)
• ½ cup beer or chicken broth (optional, for extra juiciness)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven – Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking pan with foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare Onions – In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, salt, pepper, and brown sugar. Cook slowly for 10–15 minutes until onions soften and turn golden. Add balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
3. Arrange the Tray – Spread the caramelized onions evenly in the baking pan. Place sausages on top of the onions.
4. Add Liquid – Pour beer or broth into the pan to keep sausages moist.
5. Bake – Roast uncovered for 30–35 minutes, turning sausages halfway, until they are browned and cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 71°C).
6. Serve – Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Serve with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or roasted veggies.

Methods:

• Pan + Oven Combo – Sear sausages in a skillet before baking for extra crispy skin.
• Grill Method – Grill sausages until browned, then toss with caramelized onions.
• One-Pot Stove Method – Cook sausages in a deep skillet, remove, caramelize onions in the same pan, then simmer together with a splash of beer.

History:

This dish has deep European roots:

• Germany: Bratwurst with onions and beer is a pub classic.
• Italy: “Salsiccia con Cipolle” often includes peppers, wine, and herbs.
• UK/US: Bangers and onions are pub-style comfort food often paired with mashed potatoes.

Benefits:

• Protein-rich – Great for muscle and energy.
• Caramelized onions – Rich in antioxidants, natural sweetness, and digestive benefits.
• Customizable – Use lean chicken/turkey sausages for a lighter version.

Nutrition (per serving, 1 sausage + onions):

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 15–18g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbs: 10–12g
• Fiber: 2g

Perfect for:

• Family dinners 🍴
• BBQ parties 🍺
• Meal prep (reheats well!)
• Serving with mashed potatoes, rice, or even stuffing in a sandwich