Description
Caramelized Onion Pasta is a luscious, comforting dish featuring sweet, golden-brown onions slowly cooked to perfection and combined with tender pasta. Rich with buttery flavor, a hint of garlic, and a creamy Parmesan sauce, this Italian-inspired main course delivers ultimate comfort food satisfaction in every bite, perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Caramelized Onions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for richness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with salt and black pepper. Cook slowly for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn a deep golden brown and are beautifully caramelized. If needed, add 1/2 teaspoon sugar to help speed up the caramelization process.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Pasta: While the onions cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
- Combine Pasta with Onions: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Toss gently to combine all ingredients well.
- Create the Sauce: Pour in the reserved pasta water, then add the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream if using. Stir continuously until a silky, creamy sauce forms that evenly coats the pasta.
- Season and Serve: Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme or chopped parsley for a bright finish.
Notes
- For a more complex flavor, use a combination of yellow and red onions when caramelizing.
- To make this recipe vegan, omit butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese or substitute them with plant-based alternatives.
- Be patient with the caramelization process; low and slow heat yields the best flavor and texture.
- Reserved pasta water is key to transforming the cheese and cream into a smooth sauce that clings to each strand of pasta.
