Caramelized Onion Mushroom Pasta
This Caramelized Onion Mushroom Pasta is SO DELICIOUS! Sweet caramelized onions, earthy mushrooms, and a savory sauce make the perfect cozy meal.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta spaghetti or fettuccine works best for this recipe
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
- 1 large onion thinly sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms sliced, cremini or button mushrooms recommended
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt enhances all the flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for subtle heat and balance
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, a gentle kick
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth to deglaze the pan and build the sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar adds acidity and sweetness
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for a nutty, salty finish
- fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of your favorite pasta—spaghetti or fettuccine work wonderfully. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside and keep warm.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onion along with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir occasionally and cook slowly for about 20-25 minutes until the onions turn golden brown and sweetly caramelized.
- Increase the heat to medium. Add the sliced mushrooms to the caramelized onions. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender and browned.
- Stir in the minced garlic, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and optional 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in 1/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the liquid reduce slightly, creating a flavorful sauce that will coat your pasta beautifully.
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the caramelized onion and mushroom mixture. Toss well to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the mixture seems dry. Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to bring everything together with a silky finish.
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Sharp Knife
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Grater
Notes
- Cook onions slowly for at least 20 minutes to develop deep caramelized flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a silky texture.
- Swap mushrooms or use gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
