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Caramelized Onion and Garlic Spaghetti Recipe

Caramelized Onion and Garlic Spaghetti features sweet, golden onions slowly cooked with garlic in butter, tossed with al dente spaghetti and fresh herbs for simple yet luxurious pasta.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Reserve 1 cup pasta water

Instructions

  • 1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, drain.
  • 2. Meanwhile, heat butter and olive oil in large skillet over medium-low. Add sliced onions and 1/2 tsp salt. Cook 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown.
  • 3. Add sliced garlic and sugar (if using). Cook 5 more minutes until garlic softens and onions caramelize fully.
  • 4. Add cooked spaghetti to skillet with 1/2 cup pasta water. Toss to coat, adding more water if needed for silky sauce.
  • 5. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan and parsley. Season with black pepper and red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Low and slow caramelization essential for onion sweetness.
  • Don’t rush onions – 40 minutes minimum yields best flavor.
  • Pasta water creates creamy sauce without cream.
  • Top with extra Parmesan and serve with crisp green salad.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramelized onion pasta, garlic spaghetti, sweet onion spaghetti