How Long to BBQ Onion? Time, Temp & Tips

Name: BBQ Onion
Cook time: 14 min
Yield: 2-4 servings
Cuisine: Australian
Ingredients: Onion; Salt; Black pepper; Olive oil

By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026

Colourful grilled vegetables on the barbecue

Photo by Askar Abayev on Pexels

Quick Answer

BBQ Onion for 5-7 min/side (thick slices) or 30-40 min indirect (whole) at 200-220°C (400-425°F). Internal temp: Soft and caramelised throughout. Rest for 5 minutes.

Onion BBQ Guide

Cut into 1.5cm thick rings (keep the skin on to hold slices together) and grill over direct heat. Or wrap whole onions in foil and cook over indirect heat until soft and sweet. Grilled onions are the classic BBQ sausage sizzle topping. Brown onions or red onions work best.

Cook Time

5-7 min/side (thick slices) or 30-40 min indirect (whole)

Temperature

200-220°C (400-425°F)

Internal Temp

Soft and caramelised throughout

Rest Time

5 minutes

How to BBQ Onion — Step by Step

Prep: Bring to room temperature. Season or marinate as desired.
Preheat: Get your BBQ to 200-220°C (400-425°F). Clean and oil the grate.
Cook: Grill for 5-7 min/side (thick slices) or 30-40 min indirect (whole).
Check: Use a meat thermometer — target Soft and caramelised throughout..
Rest: 5 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes

Slicing too thin — they fall apart and burn
Not keeping rings together — use a skewer through the side
Removing skin too early — it holds the layers together

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long to BBQ onion?

BBQ onion for 5-7 min/side (thick slices) or 30-40 min indirect (whole) at 200-220°C (400-425°F). Target internal temperature: Soft and caramelised throughout.

What temperature for onion on the BBQ?

Cook onion at 200-220°C (400-425°F). Internal temperature should reach Soft and caramelised throughout.

Related BBQ Guides

All Cooking Times Temperature Chart

Sources & References

Food Standards Australia New Zealand

Australian dietary guidelines and food safety for grilled produce.

Government

America's Test Kitchen (YouTube)

Tested techniques for grilling vegetables to perfection.

Video

AmazingRibs.com

Vegetable grilling guides with temperature and timing charts.

Reference

Guga Foods (YouTube)

Creative grilled vegetable experiments and flavour combinations.