This Caramelized Onion Pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! The sweet and soft onions mix perfectly with pasta, making each bite tasty and comforting.
Honestly, who can resist that rich smell of caramelized onions? I always make a bit extra, just so I can sneak some bites while cooking! 🍝
Making this dish is super easy. Cook the onions until they’re golden, toss them with pasta, and you’re all set for a delicious meal. It’s a simple delight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend farfalle for its cute shape that holds onto the sauce nicely, but any pasta like penne or spaghetti works too! Gluten-free pasta can easily be swapped in if you need it.
Onions: Yellow onions are my go-to for caramelization due to their sweetness. If you only have white or red onions, those can also work, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Olive Oil and Butter: While I love the combo of both, you can use just olive oil for a lighter option. For a richer flavor, consider using all butter or even adding a bit of bacon fat if you’re feeling adventurous!
Parmesan Cheese: Fresh grated Parmesan will deliver the best flavor, but if you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can make a nice substitute for a vegan option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions can seem tricky, but with patience, you’ll get delightful results! Start by heating your pan on medium-low. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet.
- Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. This helps draw out moisture.
- Cook slowly, stirring occasionally for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. Don’t rush; you want that sweetness!
- If they stick, just add a splash of broth or water to deglaze the pan.
Trust me, the smell while cooking is amazing, and your caramelized onions will be the star of the dish!
How to Make Caramelized Onion Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (farfalle or your choice)
For The Caramelized Onions:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For The Sauce:
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Caramelized Onion Pasta will take about 10 minutes to prep and 40 minutes total to cook, making it a perfect option for a weekday dinner. Just give yourself some time to let those onions caramelize beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Onions:
While your pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. This will help them break down and caramelize. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally for about 30-40 minutes until they’re golden brown and sweet-smelling. If they start to stick or burn, just turn the heat down a bit.
3. Add Garlic and Broth:
Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute or so until fragrant. Then pour in the broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
4. Combine Pasta and Onions:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the drained pasta to your skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the onion mixture. If it seems a bit dry, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Finish with Cheese:
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and coats the pasta beautifully. Taste your creation and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remember, the cheese can be salty, so be mindful!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your Caramelized Onion Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and, if you like, a sprig of rosemary for that fancy touch. Enjoy the comforting flavors and delightful smell of your homemade dish!
Bon appétit! Enjoy this warm and flavorful meal with loved ones. 😊
Can I Use Other Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While yellow onions are ideal for caramelizing due to their sweetness, you can substitute with white or red onions. Just keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar taste. For a vegan option, nutritional yeast works wonderfully to add that cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, you can warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help revive the sauce.
Can I Make This Pasta in Advance?
You can prepare the caramelized onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve to keep it from becoming soggy!
