Caramelized onion pasta is a simple yet tasty dish that brings out the sweet and rich flavors of slowly cooked onions. Tossed with your favorite pasta, it’s comforting and easy!
I love how the onions get all golden and sticky; it’s like they’ve been made a little fancy! Pair it with a sprinkle of cheese, and you’ve got a winner for dinner! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is my go-to for this dish because its shape holds the sauce well. You can easily swap it for spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free options like rice pasta if needed.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you don’t have them, you can use red onions for a similar flavor or sweet onions for an even milder taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut cream or a nut-based cream, which can add a unique flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: While Parmesan adds a nutty flavor, Pecorino Romano works well too. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute if you need one while still providing a cheesy taste.
How Can I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions can take time, but it’s worth it for the rich flavor. Follow these steps for an easy process:
- Use a large skillet to give the onions space to cook evenly.
- Start on medium-low heat with oil and butter to help the onions brown without burning.
- Be patient! Stir every few minutes and let them cook for about 30-40 minutes. This slow cooking draws out their sweetness.
If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan. Trust me, the wait will reward you with amazing flavor!
How to Make Delicious Caramelized Onion Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) farfalle pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This oh-so-delicious Caramelized Onion Pasta will take about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 40-45 minutes for cooking, especially for the caramelizing step. Overall, you’ll need about 55 minutes but trust me, the end result is totally worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Before you drain it, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. This is going to help loosen your sauce later if needed!
2. Caramelize the Onions:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil together with the butter over medium-low heat. Once the oil is hot, toss in the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions become deeply caramelized and golden brown. This process can take around 30-40 minutes, so take your time—patience is key here for that sweet, rich flavor!
3. Add Garlic:
Once your onions are beautifully caramelized, add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté it for just 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. This adds a lovely aroma and flavor to your dish!
4. Make the Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir everything to combine. Let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly, creating a rich sauce.
5. Stir in Cheese:
Now it’s time to make it cheesy! Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated with the creamy caramelized onion sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Final Touches:
Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta and give it a gentle toss. Serve with additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor!
Enjoy your comforting, flavorful Caramelized Onion Pasta, and savor every bite! 🍝
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle works wonderfully, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary with different shapes.
What if I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or a nut-based cream alternative can also work well while providing a unique flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce as needed.
Can I Add Vegetables or Protein?
Definitely! Feel free to add cooked spinach, mushrooms, or even grilled chicken or shrimp to make the dish more hearty. Just sauté them alongside the onions or add them with the pasta to warm through.
