Caramelized Onion Pasta is a delicious and savory dish with rich, sweet caramelized onions and a creamy sauce that perfectly coats your favorite pasta. Here’s a quick recipe for you:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (or pasta water)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, or as per the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta, saving about 1/4 cup of pasta water for later.
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Caramelize the Onions:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
- Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes, until the onions become golden brown and caramelized.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. If using thyme, add it now. Season with pepper to taste.
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Create the Sauce:
- Add the broth (or reserved pasta water) to the skillet and stir to deglaze the pan. Scrape any caramelized bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the heavy cream (if using) and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the caramelized onion sauce. Toss to combine and coat the pasta with the sauce. If needed, add a little more pasta water for a thinner sauce.
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Finish the Dish:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for another minute until the cheese melts, making the sauce creamy.
- Taste and adjust with additional salt or pepper if necessary.
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Serve:
- Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the rich flavors of this caramelized onion pasta!
This dish is hearty and flavorful on its own but can be paired with a green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
