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French Onion & Browned Butter Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich, savory flavors of classic French onion soup and the comforting heartiness of pasta. Imagine al dente strands coated in a buttery, savory sauce that highlights the deep caramelization of onions and the nutty undertones of browned butter. This recipe is a celebration of culinary fusion, where two beloved comfort foods meet to create a satisfying meal that is simple yet impressive.

French Onion and Browned Butter Pasta

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of our French Onion & Browned Butter Pasta recipe! This delightful dish combines sweet caramelized onions and nutty browned butter, creating a pasta experience that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for any occasion, it's simple to make and full of rich flavors.

Ingredients
  

12 oz fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta

3 large onions, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon sugar

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup beef or vegetable broth

1 teaspoon thyme leaves (fresh or dried)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine or tagliatelle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve about ½ cup of pasta water.

    Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.

      Add Garlic and Thyme: Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and thyme. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

        Incorporate Broth: Pour in the beef or vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly reduced, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

          Brown the Butter: In a separate small saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to cook until it turns a deep golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it.

            Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the onion mixture, tossing to combine. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed, to create a creamy texture. Pour the browned butter over the pasta and mix well.

              Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and flavor.

                Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve in shallow bowls, twirling the pasta into nests for an elegant touch. Add extra Parmesan on top and a sprig of parsley for a pop of color.