Juicy, tender beef with deeply caramelized onions — simple ingredients, bold flavor, and pure protein power. This is a classic comfort dish made macro-friendly and perfect for anyone eating high-protein, low-carb, or clean.
This recipe focuses on proper technique, not shortcuts, so the beef stays tender and the onions turn sweet and golden instead of bitter.
⭐ Why This Recipe Works
- Very high protein, naturally low carb
- No breading, no fillers
- One skillet, minimal cleanup
- Rich, savory flavor without heavy sauces
- Perfect for meal prep or dinner plates
⏱️ Servings & Timing
- Servings: 3–4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: ~35 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
🥩 Protein Base
- 1½ lb lean beef steak, thinly sliced
(sirloin, flank steak, round steak, or skirt steak)
🧅 Onion Layer
- 2 large yellow or white onions, sliced into rings
🛢️ Cooking Fats
- 1½ tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon butter for finishing flavor
🧂 Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Optional: pinch chili flakes
🌿 Optional Flavor Boosters
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce or coconut aminos
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Slice steak against the grain into thin strips — this is key for tenderness.
Pat dry with paper towels.
Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Set aside while onions cook.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions (Important Step)
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
Add onions with a pinch of salt.
Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, 12–15 minutes, until:
- Soft
- Deep golden brown
- Naturally sweet
Remove onions from skillet and set aside.
👉 Don’t rush this step — caramelization builds the flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Increase heat to medium-high.
Add remaining oil.
Lay steak strips in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
Sear 1–2 minutes per side, just until browned.
Do not overcrowd — this prevents steaming.
Step 4: Combine & Finish
Return onions to skillet with steak.
Add Worcestershire and soy sauce if using.
Toss everything together for 1–2 minutes.
Optional: Add a small knob of butter for shine and richness.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions (High-Protein Friendly)
- With cauliflower mash
- Over sautéed zucchini or cabbage
- Alongside roasted broccoli or green beans
- On its own — it’s that satisfying
🥗 Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)
(Based on sirloin steak)
- Calories: ~360–420
- Protein: ~38–45 g
- Carbs: ~8–10 g (from onions)
- Fat: ~18–22 g
Excellent protein density without fillers.
🔁 Variations & Protein Upgrades
Extra Protein
- Add egg whites at the end and scramble lightly
- Serve with cottage cheese on the side
Leaner Option
- Use eye of round or top round steak
- Reduce oil to 1 tablespoon total
Flavor Swaps
- Add mushrooms with onions
- Finish with balsamic reduction
- Use garlic butter instead of oil
🧊 Storage & Meal Prep
- Fridge: 3–4 days in airtight container
- Reheat: Skillet preferred (keeps beef tender)
- Freezer: Yes — freeze without onions for best texture
