Caramelized Onion Pasta with Garlic and Thyme – A Simple, Flavorful Delight

Introduction

Looking for a pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort? This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Garlic and Thyme is a quick, easy, and absolutely delicious meal. The sweetness of the caramelized onions combined with the savory garlic and thyme creates a sauce that perfectly coats your pasta. This simple dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne work well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a richer flavor)
• 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook the onions for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown. This slow caramelization brings out the natural sweetness of the onions.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

1. Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in the balsamic vinegar (if using), vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the caramelized onion sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Once everything is combined, transfer the pasta to plates.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Pro Tips

• For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter right before serving.
• You can make the caramelized onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days to make the cooking process even faster.
• For a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add a dash of chili powder when sautéing the garlic.

Conclusion

This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Garlic and Thyme is an incredibly flavorful dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough for a special dinner. The caramelized onions create a rich, sweet, and savory sauce that perfectly complements the pasta. Try this recipe, and you’ll enjoy a comforting dish that’s full of depth and warmth!

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