Get ready to elevate your pasta game! This isn't your grandma's spaghetti – we're talking deeply caramelized onions, bursting with sweet and savory flavor, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a touch of creamy richness. Forget jarred sauces; this recipe showcases the transformative power of slow-cooked onions, creating a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more. The rich, almost jam-like texture of the caramelized onions beautifully complements the al dente pasta, resulting in a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated.
Imagine the aroma of sweet onions gently browning, filling your kitchen with irresistible warmth. This recipe is surprisingly simple, requiring minimal ingredients and readily available pantry staples. Ready to transform a weeknight meal into a culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and create this unforgettable Caramelized Onion Pasta together.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Pot
- Pan
- Immersion blender or blender
Ingredients
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Onions: 4 large
- Garlic cloves: 4
- Butter: 4 tablespoons
- Neutral oil: 2 tablespoons
- Egg yolks: 3
- Olive oil: 1/2 cup, extra virgin
- Black pepper
- Salt
- Pasta
- Pasta water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Caramelize Onions
- Shred and chop 1 cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Finely chop 4 large onions (thinner than shown in the video for faster caramelization).
- Mince 4 garlic cloves.
- In a pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of neutral oil (avocado oil recommended).
- Add the chopped onions and cook until caramelized (approximately 40 minutes, but longer if onions are thickly sliced).
Step 2. Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks, 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil, the prepared Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add the caramelized onions to the egg yolk mixture.
- Using an immersion blender or regular blender, blend the onion mixture until smooth, adding pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Return the sauce to the pan and cook for about 30 seconds on medium heat.
Step 3. Cook Pasta and Combine
- Cook pasta al dente and reserve some pasta water.
- Add the hot cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Chop the onions very thinly for faster caramelization.
- Use an immersion blender for easier blending.
Nutrition
- Fat: 40-55g
- Carbs: 70-100g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. How long does it take to caramelize the onions?
Caramelizing onions takes patience! It usually takes 30-45 minutes on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Can I use any type of pasta?
Yes! Use your favorite pasta shape. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne work well.
3. What kind of cheese is best?
Parmesan cheese is classic, but you can also use Pecorino Romano or a creamy goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
This Caramelized Onion Pasta recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients elevated to new heights. With its irresistible flavor and surprisingly easy preparation, it's guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish, and don't forget to share your culinary masterpiece with friends and family!