Description
This Caramelized Onion Pasta is a delicious Italian-inspired vegetarian dish featuring deeply caramelized onions that impart a rich, sweet flavor to perfectly cooked pasta. Enhanced with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of balsamic vinegar, this simple yet elegant meal is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Garnished with fresh herbs, it’s sure to satisfy your craving for a flavorful, meatless main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
Caramelized Onion Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional, to enhance caramelization)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley or thyme
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, heat olive oil and unsalted butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions turn a deep golden brown and become caramelized. Add salt, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar if using to balance flavors during cooking.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Pour in the reserved pasta water and toss thoroughly to combine everything evenly so the pasta is coated with the flavorful onion sauce.
- Finish with Cheese and Vinegar: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar if using. Cook for another minute to let the cheese melt and the sauce coat the noodles nicely.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme, and serve the pasta warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For added protein, serve with grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms.
- You can add a splash of cream to the sauce for a richer texture.
- To introduce some heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
