Description
This Caramelized Onion Pasta is a delicious and easy Italian-inspired dish featuring sweet, deeply golden caramelized onions cooked with garlic and tossed with perfectly al dente pasta. Finished with Parmesan cheese and optional fresh parsley, it makes for a flavorful main course perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
Caramelized Onions
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Additional Flavorings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25 to 30 minutes until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. If the onions begin to stick to the pan, add a small splash of water to loosen them.
- Add Garlic and Spice: Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Toss Pasta with Onions: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce lightly coats the pasta.
- Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, then season to taste with salt and black pepper. Mix until well combined and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream when tossing the pasta with the caramelized onions.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added vegetables.
- Top with grilled chicken or a poached egg for increased protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
