What is the secret to caramelizing onions perfectly?

The key is patience and low heat. Slice onions evenly and cook them slowly in a mix of butter and oil for 30–40 minutes. Stir occasionally and avoid turning up the heat—they need time to turn deep golden and sweet.

Can I make caramelized onion pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely. For best results, prepare the onions ahead and refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, reheat them with a splash of pasta water or broth and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

What pasta goes best with caramelized onions?

Fettuccine, linguine, and rigatoni work wonderfully. Long strands soak up the onion flavor, while tubes trap the savory bits for extra satisfaction. Choose what you love—this dish is flexible.

How do you store and reheat caramelized onion pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce and texture.

Caramelized Onion Pasta Recipe – 5-Star Comfort You’ll Love

Name: Caramelized Onion Pasta Recipe: Easy, Rich, and Full of Flavor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or rigatoni); ½ cup grated parmesan; Fresh thyme (optional); Splash of reserved pasta water

Description

This caramelized onion pasta recipe is a weeknight hero. Simple pantry ingredients, deeply rich flavor, and real comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp unsalted butter

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

8 oz pasta (fettuccine or rigatoni)

½ cup grated parmesan

Fresh thyme (optional)

Splash of reserved pasta water

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Instructions

1. Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low.

2. Add onions and salt, stir to coat, and cook for 35–40 minutes until deep golden.

3. Meanwhile, boil pasta and reserve 1 cup of the starchy water.

4. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to onions to loosen.

5. Toss in cooked pasta, season with pepper, and sprinkle parmesan.

6. Finish with thyme and serve hot.

Notes

Use red onions for a sharper flavor profile.

Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

Store leftovers in the fridge for 3 days; reheat with water or broth.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 410
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 460mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 20mg