This recipe for Pasta with Caramelized Onions in a Slow Cooker is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a rich, savory meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does most of the work, gently caramelizing the onions to bring out their natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta.
๐ Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced ๐ง
- 3 tablespoons olive oil ๐ซ
- 1 tablespoon butter ๐ง
- 1 teaspoon salt ๐ง
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to enhance caramelization) ๐ฌ
- 3 cloves garlic, minced ๐ง
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional) ๐ฟ
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth ๐ฒ
- 1 pound pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite type) ๐
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving) ๐ง
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) ๐ฟ
๐ Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
- Prepare the onions:
- Peel and thinly slice the onions. The thinner the slices, the better they will caramelize.
- Set up the slow cooker:
- Add the sliced onions to the slow cooker. Drizzle with olive oil and add the butter, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir to coat the onions evenly.
- Cook the onions:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown. You can cook them on high for 4-5 hours if you’re short on time.
- Add garlic and herbs:
- During the last hour of cooking, stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme or rosemary. Let the flavors meld together as the onions finish caramelizing.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Combine the Pasta and Onions:
- Mix the onions and pasta:
- Once the onions are fully caramelized, stir in the vegetable or chicken broth to deglaze the slow cooker. Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and toss to coat the pasta with the caramelized onions and broth.
4. Serve:
- Plate and garnish:
- Serve the pasta topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for garnish.
โฑ๏ธ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
โฑ๏ธ Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (on low)
โฑ๏ธ Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes to 10 hours 15 minutes
๐ฝ๏ธ Servings: 4-6 servings
๐ฅ Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
This Pasta with Caramelized Onions in a Slow Cooker is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. The slow-cooked onions add a deep, sweet-savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with simple pasta. Enjoy! ๐โจ