This Caramelized Onion and Garlic Spaghetti is a warm hug on a plate! The sweet onions and rich garlic create a lovely sauce that coats the pasta just right.
Honestly, you might find yourself raiding the pan for those caramelized gems before they even hit the spaghetti! I love to sprinkle a bit of cheese on top—so tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti works great here, but feel free to try whole wheat, gluten-free pasta, or even zucchini noodles if you’re looking for a healthier option!
Onions: I recommend using yellow onions for their sweetness when caramelized. If you prefer something milder, shallots can be a lovely choice. Sweet onions like Vidalia will also work well!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. If you’re not a fan of garlic, omit it or reduce the amount.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich flavor. However, you can substitute it with avocado oil or even butter for a different taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is perfect for this dish, but any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano will do. Nutritional yeast makes a great dairy-free option.
Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil adds a nice touch. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried oregano or thyme can work too.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions can seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll get that beautiful rich flavor. The key is patience! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add sliced onions with a pinch of salt to help draw out their moisture.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Lower the heat if they start to brown too quickly.
- Look for that golden brown color; that’s when they are perfectly caramelized!
Adding garlic afterwards helps to lift the flavor without burning it. Happy cooking!
How to Make Caramelized Onion and Garlic Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30-35 minutes for this recipe. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients, and then around 20-25 minutes to cook the dish. You’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (that means it should still be a little firm). Remember to reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before you drain the spaghetti, then set it aside for later.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, toss in the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook the onions for about 20-25 minutes, stirring them occasionally. You’re looking for a beautiful golden brown color, so keep an eye on them! If they seem like they’re burning, lower the heat a little.
3. Add Garlic:
Now it’s time to add the minced garlic to the caramelized onions. Stir it in and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and turns a light golden color. This step adds amazing flavor!
4. Combine with Spaghetti:
Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the caramelized onions and garlic. Toss everything together to combine. You can pour in your reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve your desired level of creaminess. It should look rich and delicious!
5. Finish the Dish:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and give it a taste. Season with salt, pepper, and those red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. Cook for another minute until the cheese melts and everything is well mixed together.
6. Serve:
Now it’s time to plate your spaghetti! Serve it warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and any chopped herbs you like, such as parsley or basil. Enjoy your delicious Caramelized Onion and Garlic Spaghetti! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute regular spaghetti with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package since cooking times may vary slightly.
How Can I Store Leftover Spaghetti?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil and warm it in a skillet over low heat to restore some creaminess!
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute with any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast is a great alternative that adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I Make This Vegan-Friendly?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute. You can also add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and flavor!
