Description
This Caramelized Onion Pasta recipe offers a rich and creamy dish where sweet, golden caramelized onions blend perfectly with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Ideal for a comforting weeknight meal, this pasta is enhanced with garlic, white wine, and fresh parsley, making it an elegant yet simple dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
Onions and Aromatics
- 2 large onions (thinly sliced)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta and Garnish
- 12 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Be patient and avoid burning them. Lower the heat if necessary.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: If using, pour the white wine into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the wine is mostly evaporated.
- Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For best caramelization, cook onions slowly and do not rush the browning process.
- White wine is optional but adds a subtle depth of flavor to the sauce.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but the richness will be reduced.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and crusty bread.
