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Caramelized Onion Pasta

Caramelized Onion Pasta
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Caramelized Onion Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the natural sweetness of slowly caramelized yellow onions with perfectly cooked pasta. This comforting recipe is quick to prepare, uses minimal ingredients, and can be easily adapted for various dietary preferences, making it an ideal choice for any pasta lover seeking rich, savory flavors and a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 large sweet yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 12 ounces pasta of choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Optional Variations

  • 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
  • 4 slices crispy bacon or pancetta, chopped
  • Vegan cheese or nutritional yeast, as a dairy-free alternative
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or kale
  • 1–2 tablespoons balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions: Thinly slice the yellow onions. Heat olive oil or butter in a wide pan over medium-low heat. Add the onions and stir occasionally, allowing them to cook slowly until they turn a deep golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. Slow caramelization is essential to develop the rich, sweet onion flavor.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve one cup of the pasta water to use later in the sauce.
  3. Add Garlic and Combine: Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant. Toss in the drained pasta along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir gently to combine, letting the pasta absorb the flavorful onion sauce.
  4. Season and Finish: Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Mix in fresh herbs for brightness. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until everything is coated and creamy. Serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Low and slow cooking of onions is key to extracting natural sweetness and preventing burning.
  • Use a wide pan to ensure even caramelization without steaming the onions.
  • Reserve pasta water to create a smooth, silky sauce that binds the pasta and onions together.
  • Season gradually, salting early to draw moisture from onions and adjusting final seasoning at the end.
  • Choose flat or ribbon-style pastas like fettuccine or linguine for better sauce adherence.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramelized onion pasta, easy pasta recipe, comfort food, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta, vegan option, gluten free pasta

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/caramelized-onion-pasta/