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Caramelized Onion Pasta

Caramelized Onion Pasta
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Caramelized Onion Pasta is a rich and comforting dish combining the natural sweetness of slow-cooked yellow onions with tender spaghetti or fettuccine. This simple, vegetarian-friendly pasta recipe uses minimal ingredients like olive oil or butter, garlic, broth, and Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful, cozy meal perfect for any weeknight dinner. With easy customization options and a warm, indulgent texture, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a hearty yet fuss-free pasta dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 12 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
  • 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions: Thinly slice your yellow onions and set them aside. Plan on cooking them over low heat to slowly coax out their natural sugars and develop a beautiful golden-brown color.
  2. Caramelize the Onions: Heat olive oil or butter in a wide skillet over low to medium-low heat. Add the onions with a pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until they become luscious and sweet. Add a splash of broth if the pan gets too dry to prevent burning.
  3. Cook the Pasta: While the onions cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti or fettuccine until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to help create the sauce.
  4. Combine and Flavor: Add minced garlic to the onions during the last few minutes of caramelizing and stir until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with broth, then toss the cooked pasta into the skillet. Mix everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to coat the noodles evenly.
  5. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently so the cheese melts evenly and the dish glistens with flavor.

Notes

  • Cook onions low and slow to develop optimum sweetness and texture.
  • Slice onions evenly for consistent caramelization.
  • Use a wide pan to maximize surface area for better browning.
  • Reserve pasta water to help bind sauce and keep pasta silky.
  • Add Parmesan off heat to preserve its sharpness and melting quality.
  • Optional garnishes include fresh parsley, basil, toasted nuts, or extra Parmesan.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
  • Freeze pasta separately for up to 1 month; thaw in fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet with broth or water to maintain creaminess and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caramelized Onion Pasta, easy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, caramelized onions, comfort food, simple dinner, Italian pasta dish

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