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Caramelized onions Recipe

Caramelized onions Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 14 reviews

This classic caramelized onions recipe transforms simple yellow onions into a rich, golden, and flavorful topping perfect for pasta dishes. Slow-cooked with olive oil or butter, herbs, and a touch of sweetness, these onions create a silky sauce when combined with your favorite pasta and Parmesan cheese. Ideal for a comforting and savory meal, garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Caramelized Onions

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or vegetable broth

Pasta

  • 1 pound of your favorite pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Slice Onions: Begin by thinly slicing your onions evenly. This step sets the foundation for even caramelization later. Take your time to get uniform slices to ensure consistent cooking.
  2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onions in your slow cooker. Add the olive oil or butter, salt, and sugar if using. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients well, coating the onions evenly.
  3. Slow Cook the Onions: Cover and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours. Stir the onions occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even browning. The onions will break down and develop a deep golden color and sweet flavor.
  4. Add Garlic and Herbs: About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, add minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and white wine or vegetable broth to the onions. Stir well and continue cooking until the mixture is fragrant and fully integrated.
  5. Cook Pasta: While the onions finish cooking, prepare your pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
  6. Combine Pasta and Onions: Mix the caramelized onions with the cooked pasta in a large bowl or pot. Add reserved pasta water gradually as needed to create a smooth, silky sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
  7. Add Cheese and Season: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary to enhance flavors.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Finish the dish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste experience.

Notes

  • Using a slow cooker helps develop sweet, deep caramelization without constant attention.
  • Optional sugar enhances sweetness but can be omitted if preferred.
  • White wine adds acidity and depth; substitute vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Reserve pasta water contains starch that helps emulsify the sauce for smooth texture.
  • This recipe pairs well with sturdy pastas like fettuccine or penne that hold the sauce well.
  • Can be adapted to a vegan recipe by omitting Parmesan or using vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramelized onions, slow cooker onions, pasta sauce, caramelized onion pasta, easy caramelized onions, vegetarian pasta recipe

Find it online: https://tastemadebyclara.com/caramelized-onions-recipe/