This Caramelized Onion Pasta is a warm hug on a plate! With sweet, golden onions cooked until soft and mixed with pasta, it’s simple yet satisfying.
The smell alone will make your kitchen feel cozy. I love adding a sprinkle of cheese right before serving—because cheese makes everything better, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is a fun shape that holds sauce well, but don’t hesitate to use penne, fettuccine, or whatever pasta you have on hand. They all work great!
Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing because of their sweetness. If you’re looking for a quicker option, shallots can be a wonderful substitute—they caramelize a bit faster!
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add depth of flavor, but button mushrooms, portobello, or even dried mushrooms can work. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, consider adding spinach or zucchini instead.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or full-fat milk. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream can add a nice creaminess!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice bit of saltiness and flavor. If you’re vegan, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do I Make the Perfect Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions gives an amazing flavor to your pasta but does require some patience. Here’s how to do it just right:
- Heat your skillet over medium-low heat and add olive oil and butter.
- Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat them in oil.
- Cook low and slow for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If they start to stick, add a little water.
- Look for a deep, golden brown color; that’s when the flavor really shines!
Don’t rush this step. Good caramelized onions take time, but the result is worth it! They’ll add a sweet, rich flavor that makes your pasta special.
Caramelized Onion Pasta with Mushrooms and Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) farfalle or any pasta of choice
For the Saucy Goodness:
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 8 oz (225g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned or chopped (for added color and flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, totaling roughly 40 minutes. You’ll spend some time caramelizing the onions slowly for the best flavor, but it’s well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining it, then set the pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. This is where the magic begins! Cook gently, stirring occasionally for about 25-30 minutes until the onions become deeply golden and beautifully caramelized. If they start to stick to the pan, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water to keep them from burning.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms:
Once your onions are caramelized, it’s time to add more flavor. Pour in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and increase the heat to medium. Add in the sliced mushrooms and the optional sun-dried tomatoes. Cook these for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the mushrooms are nice and browned.
4. Add Garlic for Flavor:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute until you can smell the lovely aroma filling your kitchen. Mmm!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream while stirring to combine everything. Then add the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season your sauce with a little salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Combine Everything:
Add your cooked pasta and the reserved pasta water into the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly so that every piece of pasta gets coated in that delicious creamy sauce made from caramelized onions and mushrooms.
7. Freshen It Up:
Remove the skillet from the heat and mix in the chopped parsley. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley. Enjoy this rich, creamy dish that perfectly balances sweet caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms, making every bite a delightful experience!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle is a great choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or water to help restore the sauce’s consistency.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
This dish is already vegetarian! For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and cream alternatives, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute. You can also add more vegetables for added nutrition.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free choice, you can use coconut cream or cashew cream to maintain the creaminess of the dish!