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Caramelized Onion Pasta

Caramelized Onion Pasta
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Caramelized Onion Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish featuring sweet, slowly caramelized onions combined with perfectly cooked pasta. This comforting and elegant meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions. With pantry staples and fresh basics, it’s easy to prepare, customizable, and delivers a rich, sophisticated flavor that’s sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet onions (Yellow or Vidalia), thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or preferred type)
  • 1/4 cup white wine or broth (optional, for deglazing)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions: Thinly slice the sweet onions and heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-low heat. Slowly sauté the onions, stirring frequently to prevent burning, allowing their natural sugars to develop and turn golden brown. This process takes about 20-25 minutes.
  2. Add Garlic and Deglaze: Once the onions are tender and richly caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then pour in a splash of white wine or broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency later.
  4. Combine Pasta and Onions: Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the caramelized onion mixture. Stir gently while gradually adding reserved pasta water to create a silky, cohesive sauce that clings perfectly to each strand.
  5. Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs. Toss briefly, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Patience is key: Take your time caramelizing onions slowly on low heat for optimal flavor without burning.
  • Use a wide pan: A large surface area allows even cooking and easier stirring of onions.
  • Reserve pasta water: It’s rich in starch and perfect for loosening the sauce and improving texture.
  • Freshly grate cheese: Pre-grated cheese can have additives that reduce melting quality.
  • Season gradually: Add salt and pepper throughout cooking to layer flavors, avoiding over-seasoning at the end.

Nutrition

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

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