Caramelized Onion Pasta

This caramelized onion pasta looks and feels luxurious, thanks to its play of colors, flavors and extra-fine pasta shape. And while caramelizing the onions is the most time-consuming part of this recipe, you can make a big batch and use it in future preparations to save time in the future.

Pair this dish with other Mediterranean flavors like a spinach salad, white wine and an Italian-style dessert. We hope you love making this dish as much as you love eating it.

Caramelized Onion Pasta Ingredients

• Butter: Using butter to caramelize onions adds a lovely aroma and a nutty flavor. Just be sure the butter doesn’t burn, as it has a lower smoke point than oil.
• Onions: Vidalia or yellow onions are best for caramelizing, as these varieties are naturally sweet.
• Red pepper flakes: A staple on many Italian tables, red pepper flakes are made from the peperoncino variety of pepper.
• Garlic: This recipe is meant to be garlic-forward, but you can toggle up or down with the amount however much you want.
• Grape tomatoes: With their burst of flavor and meaty texture, grape tomatoes help complete the flavor profile of this pasta dish.
• Balsamic vinegar: Sweet and vibrant, a touch of balsamic vinegar makes all the difference. We suggest a high-quality variety like balsamic vinegar of Modena, with a rating of two or more leaves.
• Olive oil: The olive oil in this recipe is primarily used as a finishing oil, so we recommend using one with a flavor you really enjoy.
• Angel hair pasta: Similar to capellini, this variety of pasta is extra thin. As a result, it’s excellent for absorbing flavors.
• Bacon: A little bacon goes a long way, adding a punch of savory flavor to this dish. If you’d like, you can substitute it with guanciale or pancetta.
• Parmesan: Nutty and salty, fresh grated Parmesan is the chef’s kiss to this dish. Either Parmesan or Parmigiano Reggiano will do the trick.
• Basil (optional): Fragrant fresh basil leaves feature a peppery, licorice-like flavor. If you prefer, you can simply leave them out or substitute them with another fresh herb of your choice.

Directions

Step 1: Saute the onions and flavorings

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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions, pepper flakes and salt, then saute until the onions are tender. Stir in the minced garlic.

Step 2: Caramelize the onions

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Reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 40 minutes or until the onions are a deep golden brown.

Step 3: Add the tomatoes, vinegar and oil

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Add the halved tomatoes, balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet.

Step 4: Cook the pasta

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Cook the angel hair pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta, then toss it into the skillet with the other ingredients.

Step 5: Add the bacon and cheese, garnish and serve

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Drizzle the pasta mix with the remaining olive oil, then add the bacon, Parmesan and pepper, and heat through. Before serving, garnish with basil or your fresh herb of choice, if desired.

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Caramelized Onion Pasta Variations

• Use a different pasta: Apart from angel hair pasta, there are plenty of other varieties of pasta shapes that you may enjoy. You can even try making your own homemade pasta to use in this recipe.
• Try different cooking techniques: Instead of using fresh grape tomatoes, you may enjoy roasted or even blistered tomatoes in this dish. You can also use smoked bacon or another smoked meat for a twist on flavors.

How to Store Caramelized Onion Pasta

Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftover caramelized onions pasta to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to five days. When you’re ready to serve it, simply add the pasta to a skillet on low to medium heat and drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top to help rehydrate it.

Can you make pasta with caramelized onions ahead of time?

A significant portion of this dish can be prepped ahead of time, so you can easily pull it together last minute. For example, you can make a big batch of caramelized onions and store it in the fridge for up to a week, and you can cook the angel hair pasta ahead, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

Caramelized Onion Pasta Tips

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What is the secret to caramelized onions?

Keeping the lid on the skillet will help to create steam, which can encourage the onions to cook down faster. Also, make sure you’re using a pan with a relatively thick bottom and that you place the heat on low after the onions have cooked to the translucent stage.

Should I add sugar to caramelized onions?

It’s not necessary, since the caramelization process already helps to release the natural sweetness of the onions. That said, added sugar does work great for recipes like onion jam.

What is angel hair pasta best for?

Due to its fine texture and long string-like shape, angel hair pasta is great for silky sauces, and it’s often paired with seafood. Our favorite angel hair pasta recipes will give you lots more inspiration for this delicate pasta.