Growing up, my parents loved serving liver, but as a kid, I wasn’t too thrilled about it. It wasn’t until I started cooking for myself that I gave this beef liver with onions and gravy recipe a fair shot.
To my surprise, with the right preparation and a few tweaks, it quickly became one of my favorite comfort meals.
If you’re on the fence about liver, trust me—this recipe is your chance to fall in love with it!
How To Make Beef Liver With Onions And Gravy At Home
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to whip up beef liver with onions and gravy in your kitchen:
Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: Southern-inspired
- Course: Main Dish
- Difficulty: Easy
- Yield: 4 servings
- Calories Per Serving: ~320
Ingredients List
You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients for this dish—just a few pantry staples and fresh items.
- 1 lb calf liver, sliced
- 1 cup milk (for soaking)
- 2 medium yellow onions, sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Creole seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Substitutes & Variations:
- Substitute calf liver with beef liver if preferred.
- Use chicken or vegetable broth for a milder gravy.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy for extra depth.
The Spice Hunter Cajun Creole Seasoning
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Prepare The Liver:
Start by soaking the sliced liver in milk for about 30 minutes. This step helps reduce the strong “liver taste,” making the dish more palatable.
2. Cook The Onions:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they’re caramelized—about 10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare The Liver:
Remove the liver from the milk, pat it dry with paper towels, and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning.
4. Cook The Liver:
Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the skillet. Sear the liver slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but still tender. Overcooking can make the liver tough, so be careful! Remove the liver from the skillet and set it aside.
5. Make The Gravy:
In the same skillet, sprinkle the flour and stir for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer until the gravy thickens.
6. Combine And Serve:
Return the onions and liver to the skillet, allowing everything to simmer together for a few minutes. The liver will soak up the rich flavors of the gravy. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
For a comforting dinner, pair this dish with:
- Mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.
- Buttered rice and roasted carrots.
- A crusty piece of bread to mop up the gravy.
Recipe Variations And Substitute Ideas
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or paprika for a spicy twist.
- Herby Flavor: Toss in fresh thyme or parsley for an aromatic boost.
- Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a keto-friendly version.
How To Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain the gravy’s consistency.
Is Beef Liver And Onions Good For You?
Beef liver and onions aren’t just tasty—they’re packed with nutrients your body needs. Let’s dive into the benefits of this comforting dish:
- Rich In Vitamins:
- Beef liver is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with Vitamin A, which supports eye health and immune function.
- It’s also high in B vitamins, including B12, which helps boost energy and support red blood cell production.
- High In Protein:
- This dish is an excellent source of lean protein, making it ideal for muscle growth and repair.
- Packed With Minerals:
- Beef liver contains iron, which combats fatigue and anemia, and zinc, essential for immune health.
- Low In Carbs:
- For those following low-carb or keto diets, this recipe fits perfectly into your meal plan.
While this dish is nutritious, moderation is key due to its high vitamin A content. Incorporate it into your meals occasionally for a balanced diet!
What Is The Best Way To Eat Beef Liver?
The best way to enjoy beef liver is to cook it until tender and serve it with a flavorful sauce or gravy. Pair it with mashed potatoes or steamed rice for the ultimate comfort meal.
What Makes Beef Liver Taste Better? Secrets To A Delicious Dish
Beef liver has a distinct taste, but there are simple tricks to make it more enjoyable:
- Choose Quality Liver:
- Opt for calf liver if possible—it’s tender and milder in flavor compared to regular beef liver.
- Proper Preparation:
- Always trim any visible membranes or veins before cooking for a smoother texture.
- Marinating the liver in a mix of lemon juice and spices can further enhance its taste.
- Cooking Method:
- Searing the liver on high heat locks in its juices and creates a delicious crust.
- Cooking the onions slowly until caramelized adds natural sweetness that balances the liver’s bold flavor.
- Gravy Perfection:
- A rich, velvety onion gravy is the ultimate complement to the liver. Add a touch of garlic, thyme, or even a splash of cream to elevate the gravy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Soak Liver In Milk Before Cooking?
Soaking liver in milk helps neutralize its strong flavor, resulting in a milder, more enjoyable taste.
Can I Freeze Cooked Beef Liver With Onions And Gravy?
Yes! Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the liver.
What Can I Use Instead Of Milk For Soaking The Liver?
Buttermilk or water with a splash of vinegar can work as alternatives.
How Do I Know When The Liver Is Cooked Properly?
The liver should be browned on the outside but slightly pink on the inside for the best texture.
Ready To Try This Recipe?
I’d love to hear how your Beef Liver With Onions And Gravy turns out! Let me know in the comments or share a picture of your dish. For more comforting recipes like this, explore my other classic favorites!
Beef Liver With Onions And Gravy: Step-By-Step Guide
Ingredients
- 1 lb calf liver sliced
- 1 cup milk for soaking
- 2 medium yellow onions sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Creole seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare The Liver:
- Start by soaking the sliced liver in milk for about 30 minutes. This step helps reduce the strong “liver taste,” making the dish more palatable.
Cook The Onions:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they’re caramelized—about 10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare The Liver:
- Remove the liver from the milk, pat it dry with paper towels, and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning.
Cook The Liver:
- Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the skillet. Sear the liver slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but still tender. Overcooking can make the liver tough, so be careful! Remove the liver from the skillet and set it aside.
Make The Gravy:
- In the same skillet, sprinkle the flour and stir for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer until the gravy thickens.
Combine And Serve:
- Return the onions and liver to the skillet, allowing everything to simmer together for a few minutes. The liver will soak up the rich flavors of the gravy. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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