Description
This Slow Cooker Caramelized Onions Pasta is a deliciously creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring deeply caramelized onions cooked low and slow, combined with tender pasta and topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for an easy, hands-off meal that’s rich in taste and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Caramelized Onions
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
For the Pasta and Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the onions: Place the thinly sliced onions, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional sugar into the slow cooker. Stir well to coat the onions evenly, ensuring even caramelization during cooking.
- Slow cook the onions: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to encourage even browning until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown.
- Cook the pasta: Approximately 15 minutes before the onions finish cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Finish the onion sauce: Stir the minced garlic and broth into the slow cooker with the caramelized onions. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors and soften the garlic.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and toss gently to combine with the onion mixture. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter, adding the reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy, luscious sauce.
- Add final touches: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you desire a bit of heat. Garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or mushrooms to make this a complete meal.
- For a richer flavor, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a little cream cheese when mixing with the pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
