Description

This Caramelized Onion Pasta is a simple yet deeply flavorful dish that highlights the rich sweetness of caramelized onions, paired with the savory notes of garlic and Parmesan cheese. The slow-cooked onions create a luxurious sauce that coats every strand of pasta, making each bite a delightful experience. Finished with a splash of broth, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a dusting of Parmesan, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests. It’s a comforting, satisfying dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare

Ingredients

• 3 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 pound pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine works well)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation Method

Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and the oil is shimmering. Add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the onions start to soften and turn translucent.

Add Sugar and Seasonings: Sprinkle the sugar over the onions and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue to cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes until they are golden brown and caramelized. This slow cooking process allows the onions to develop a deep, sweet flavor. Be patient and stir occasionally to prevent the onions from burning.

Cook the Pasta: While the onions are caramelizing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.

Add Garlic: Once the onions are fully caramelized, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and slightly softened.

Deglaze the Skillet: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This will add extra flavor to the sauce.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. Continue tossing until the pasta is well coated with the onion mixture and the sauce has a silky consistency.

Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Toss everything together until the cheese is melted and the parsley is evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

Serve: Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the caramelized onion pasta warm, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want a little more cheesy goodness.

Tips and Conclusion

Tip
For an added layer of flavor, you can drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar over the onions during the last few minutes of caramelizing. This will enhance the sweetness of the onions and add a subtle tanginess to the dish. Additionally, if you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic.

Conclusion
This Caramelized Onion Pasta is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and satisfying to the soul. The sweet and savory onions, combined with the creamy Parmesan and fresh parsley, make this pasta dish both comforting and elegant. It’s an easy recipe that’s sure to impress, whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy this delightful dish, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your meal rotation!