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Simple Caramelized Onion Pasta Recipe

4.9 from 138 reviews

This Simple Caramelized Onion Pasta Recipe features slow-cooked sweet caramelized onions in a creamy chili-infused sauce, combined with perfectly cooked pasta and fresh parsley for a rich, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

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For the Sauce:

  • 4 tbsp Olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 2 Onions, finely sliced
  • 2 tbsp Chilli oil
  • 500 ml Heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • Pasta, quantity as needed (typically 350-400g for 4 servings)
  • 4 tbsp Freshly chopped parsley
  • Salt (to season pasta water and final seasoning)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over low to medium heat. Add the finely sliced onions and cook slowly for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn deep golden brown and develop a sweet aroma. Once fully caramelized, reduce heat to low to keep warm.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: Stir in chilli oil to the caramelized onions until fully combined. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  3. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some starchy pasta water.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Add some reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and toss over medium-high heat for a few minutes until the sauce evenly coats the pasta.
  5. Finish and Serve: Turn off the heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta and adjust seasoning with a teaspoon of salt. Let the dish rest for a couple of minutes, then serve and enjoy.

Notes

  • For best caramelization, cook the onions slowly and avoid high heat to prevent burning.
  • Reserve some pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce consistency.
  • Use fresh parsley for a bright, fresh flavor contrast to the rich sauce.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

Keywords: caramelized onion pasta, creamy pasta sauce, easy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, Italian pasta dish