Name: Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 3 white onions; 8 cloves garlic; 1 tsp white sugar; ½ tsp salt; 12 oz spaghetti; ½ cup dry chardonnay; ¾ cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tbsp parmesan cheese; cracked black pepper

This creamy garlic and onion spaghetti dish is a comforting and flavorful pasta recipe that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the rich taste of garlic and cream. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.

Photos of Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti Recipe

If you don't usually stock dry chardonnay or heavy whipping cream in your kitchen, you will need to pick these up from the supermarket. The dry white wine adds depth to the sauce, while the heavy cream provides the luxurious texture essential to the dish.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti

Butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.

Extra virgin olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding a fruity note.

White onions: Provides sweetness and body to the sauce.

Garlic: Infuses the sauce with a robust garlic flavor.

White sugar: Helps in caramelizing the onions, enhancing their sweetness.

Salt: Balances the flavors in the dish.

Spaghetti: The pasta base that carries the creamy sauce.

Dry chardonnay: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.

Heavy whipping cream: Creates a rich and creamy texture.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the finished dish.

Cracked black pepper: Provides a touch of heat and enhances the overall flavor.

One reader, Fan Perez says:

This creamy garlic and onion spaghetti recipe is a delightful treat! The rich, buttery sauce with perfectly caramelized onions and garlic pairs wonderfully with the spaghetti. The hint of chardonnay adds a sophisticated touch. A must-try for pasta lovers!

Fan Perez

Cooking Techniques for Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti

How to melt butter with olive oil: Combine butter and olive oil in a saucepan over low heat until melted and well mixed. How to cook onions and garlic: Stir onions, garlic, sugar, and salt into the hot butter and oil, cover the pan, and cook until onions are soft and translucent, stirring occasionally for about 20 minutes. How to cook spaghetti: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil, cook spaghetti in the boiling water for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm to the bite, then drain and keep warm. How to simmer with wine: Pour chardonnay into the onion mixture, bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until evaporated. How to thicken sauce with cream: Stir heavy cream into the mixture and simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened. How to toss pasta with sauce: Transfer spaghetti to a serving bowl, pour onion sauce over pasta, sprinkle with parmesan cheese and black pepper, and toss to coat.

How To Make Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti

Creamy, savory, and yet very simple, this spaghetti recipe has classic Italian flavors with garlic, butter, Chardonnay, cream, and Parmesan.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6tbspbutter
1tbspextra virgin olive oil
3white onions,halved and thinly sliced
8clovesgarlic,minced
1tspwhite sugar
½tspsalt
12ozspaghetti
½cupdry chardonnay
¾cupheavy whipping cream
2tbspparmesan cheese,grated
cracked black pepper,to taste

Instructions

Melt butter with olive oil in a saucepan over low heat. Stir onions, garlic, sugar, and salt into the hot butter and oil. Cover pan and cook until onions are soft and translucent, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti in the boiling water for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm to the bite. Drain and keep warm.
Pour Chardonnay into onion mixture and bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until evaporated.
Stir heavy cream into mixture and simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Transfer spaghetti to a serving bowl and pour onion sauce over pasta; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Toss to coat.

Nutrition

Calories: 498.37kcal
Fat: 26.53g
Saturated Fat: 15.16g
Trans Fat: 0.47g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.15g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.44g
Carbohydrates: 51.93g
Fiber: 3.11g
Sugar: 5.96g
Protein: 10.25g
Cholesterol: 73.39mg
Sodium: 257.01mg
Calcium: 97.42mg
Potassium: 283.95mg
Iron: 1.10mg
Vitamin A: 225.97µg
Vitamin C: 6.05mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti

To achieve a deeply flavorful sauce, make sure to cook the onions and garlic slowly over low heat. This allows them to caramelize gently, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding complexity to the dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Spaghetti Recipe

Pre-chop onions and garlic: Chop onions and garlic in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Use pre-grated cheese: Save time by using pre-grated parmesan cheese instead of grating it yourself.

Boil water early: Start boiling the water for the spaghetti while you prep the other ingredients.

Simmer sauce while pasta cooks: Simmer the onion mixture and cream while the spaghetti cooks to streamline the process.

Use a garlic press: A garlic press can quickly mince garlic, saving you chopping time.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti Recipe

butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine provides a similar texture and flavor, making it a suitable alternative for butter.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties to extra virgin olive oil.
white onions - Substitute with yellow onions: Yellow onions have a similar flavor profile and can be used interchangeably with white onions.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder garlic flavor and can be used as a substitute for garlic.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and can replace white sugar in the recipe.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty and umami flavor, making it a good alternative to salt.
spaghetti - Substitute with zucchini noodles: Zucchini noodles are a low-carb alternative to spaghetti and provide a similar texture.
dry chardonnay - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth offers a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol content of dry chardonnay.
heavy whipping cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk provides a creamy texture and can replace heavy whipping cream for a dairy-free option.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a vegan alternative to parmesan cheese.
cracked black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar spiciness and can be used in place of cracked black pepper.

Presentation Tips for Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the spaghetti in a delicate nest, allowing the onion sauce to pool elegantly around it. This creates a refined and sophisticated look.
Use decoration: Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley or basil to add a touch of color and freshness. A few shavings of parmesan cheese can also enhance the visual appeal.
Highlight ingredients: Place a few whole, roasted garlic cloves and thin slices of caramelized onion on top of the spaghetti to showcase the key flavors of the dish.
Add texture: Sprinkle a small amount of toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts over the dish for a contrasting crunch that complements the creamy sauce.
Use high-quality tableware: Serve the dish on a pristine white plate with a wide rim to frame the spaghetti beautifully. This allows the colors and textures to stand out.
Drizzle with sauce: Just before serving, drizzle a little extra olive oil around the edge of the plate for a glossy finish and added richness.
Balance flavors: Add a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper and a pinch of sea salt just before serving to enhance the flavors and provide a final touch of seasoning.
Serve with a complementary side: Pair the dish with a small side of arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Spaghetti Recipe

Saucepan: Use this to melt the butter and olive oil, and to cook the onions and garlic mixture.
Large pot: This is essential for boiling the spaghetti.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the onions, garlic, and other ingredients in the saucepan.
Knife: Necessary for chopping the onions and garlic.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onions and garlic.
Measuring spoons: Use these to measure out the butter, olive oil, sugar, salt, and parmesan cheese.
Measuring cup: Needed to measure the dry chardonnay and heavy whipping cream.
Colander: Useful for draining the cooked spaghetti.
Serving bowl: For transferring the cooked spaghetti and mixing it with the onion sauce.
Grater: If you are using a block of parmesan cheese, this will help you grate it.
Lid: To cover the saucepan while the onions are cooking.
Tongs: Handy for tossing the spaghetti with the sauce.

Storing and Freezing Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti

Allow the creamy garlic and onion spaghetti to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the pasta from becoming soggy and the sauce from separating.
For short-term storage, place the cooled spaghetti in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
To freeze the spaghetti for longer storage:
- Divide the cooled pasta into individual serving-sized portions.
- Place each portion in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze the spaghetti for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen spaghetti:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat the thawed pasta in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- If the sauce appears too thick, add a small amount of cream, milk, or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen spaghetti directly in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on your microwave's power.
To maintain the best quality and texture, consume the frozen creamy garlic and onion spaghetti within the recommended 2-3 month period. After that, the pasta may become slightly mushy, and the sauce may lose some of its original flavors.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti

Reheat the leftover creamy garlic and onion spaghetti in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir gently and continuously to prevent the cream sauce from separating or burning. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to loosen it up and restore its creamy texture.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the leftover spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of water or milk to help maintain the sauce's consistency. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the spaghetti is heated through and steaming.
Transform your leftover creamy garlic and onion spaghetti into a delicious pasta bake. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover spaghetti to a baking dish and sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese and a handful of breadcrumbs. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the spaghetti is heated through. This method adds a delightful crunch to the creamy pasta.
For a stovetop reheating option that infuses extra flavor, melt a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover spaghetti to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the melted butter. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spaghetti is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method adds a delightful buttery flavor and a slight crunch to the reheated pasta.

Interesting Fact About Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti

A unique aspect of this creamy garlic and onion spaghetti recipe is the use of dry chardonnay in the sauce. The wine adds a subtle depth of flavor and helps to deglaze the pan, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Is Making This Spaghetti Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy garlic and onion spaghetti recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With basic ingredients like butter, olive oil, onions, garlic, and spaghetti, the total cost is approximately $12-$15 for a family of four. The use of dry chardonnay and heavy whipping cream adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Creamy Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy garlic and onion spaghetti recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of butter and heavy cream, which are high in saturated fats and calories.
The white sugar adds unnecessary calories and carbohydrates to the dish.
The spaghetti is a refined carbohydrate, which can cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients than whole-grain alternatives.
The recipe lacks a significant source of protein, which is essential for a balanced meal.
There are no vegetables included in the recipe, missing out on important vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

While the onions and garlic provide some health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, the overall nutritional profile of this dish is not ideal.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of it with more olive oil, which is a healthier fat.
Use whole-grain spaghetti or zucchini noodles to increase the fiber content and reduce the impact on blood sugar levels.
Add a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to balance out the meal.
Incorporate vegetables into the dish, such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient content.
Reduce the amount of heavy cream and replace some of it with low-fat milk or vegetable broth to lower the calorie and fat content.
Omit the sugar, as the natural sweetness of the onions should be sufficient.

Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti

This creamy garlic and onion spaghetti recipe is a delightful blend of rich flavors and comforting textures. The slow-cooked onions and garlic create a sweet, aromatic base, while the dry chardonnay adds a sophisticated touch. The heavy cream ensures a luscious, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the al dente spaghetti. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper finishes the dish with a savory depth and a hint of spice. This recipe is both elegant and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

Enhance Your Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Elevate your meal with a side of asparagus roasted to perfection, drizzled with a hint of lemon zest for a refreshing burst of flavor. The crispiness of the asparagus complements the creamy texture of the spaghetti beautifully.

Caprese Salad: Add a touch of Italian flair with a Caprese Salad featuring juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella. A drizzle of balsamic reduction ties it all together, offering a delightful contrast to the rich garlic and onion spaghetti.

Garlic Bread: No pasta dish is complete without a side of Garlic Bread. Imagine warm, crusty bread slathered with garlic butter and sprinkled with parsley. It's the perfect companion to soak up every bit of that luscious onion sauce.

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar Salad brings a crisp, refreshing element to your meal. Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing provide a delightful contrast to the creamy spaghetti.

Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with a decadent Tiramisu. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder create a dessert that's as indulgent as your main course.

Similar Recipes to Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Indulge in a zesty twist with this delightful dish. Juicy shrimp sautéed in a tangy lemon and garlic sauce, tossed with al dente spaghetti. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dash of red pepper flakes elevate this meal to a gourmet experience.

Mushroom Alfredo Fettuccine: Dive into a creamy, earthy delight with this rich fettuccine. Sautéed mushrooms blend seamlessly with a velvety Alfredo sauce, creating a comforting and luxurious pasta dish. Perfect for a cozy night in.

Spinach and Artichoke Pasta: Transform your favorite dip into a hearty meal. This pasta combines tender spinach and artichoke hearts with a creamy, cheesy sauce. A hint of garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan make it irresistible.

Tomato Basil Spaghetti: Experience the fresh flavors of summer with this simple yet satisfying dish. Ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil come together in a light, garlicky sauce. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of parmesan complete this classic pasta.

Chicken Pesto Penne: Savor the vibrant flavors of homemade pesto in this delicious pasta. Tender chicken pieces are tossed with penne and a rich basil pesto sauce. A handful of cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of pine nuts add texture and color.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory Stuffed Mushrooms. The earthy flavor of mushrooms is perfectly complemented by a rich filling of cream cheese, herbs, and a hint of garlic. Baked to golden perfection, these bite-sized treats are a perfect start to any meal. The creamy interior contrasts beautifully with the slightly crisp mushroom caps, making each bite a delightful experience. Serve them warm to enhance the flavors and watch them disappear quickly.

Bruschetta: Kick off your meal with a classic Bruschetta. This Italian favorite features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar elevate the flavors, creating a refreshing and satisfying appetizer. The crunch of the bread paired with the juicy, flavorful topping makes it an irresistible choice for any gathering. Serve it as a light and flavorful start to your meal.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in a classic Italian treat that layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a rich mascarpone cheese mixture. Add a touch of cocoa powder on top for a delightful finish. This dessert is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of coffee flavor and creamy textures.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the zesty delight of a lemon meringue pie. The tangy lemon curd filling is complemented by a fluffy meringue topping, all nestled in a buttery crust. This dessert offers a refreshing contrast of sweet and tart flavors.

Why trust this Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of butter, garlic, and onions to create a creamy, comforting dish. The addition of chardonnay adds a sophisticated touch, while the heavy whipping cream ensures a luxurious texture. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this spaghetti dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and straightforward preparation.

Share your thoughts and experiences making this Creamy Garlic and Onion Spaghetti Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you tried and how it turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of wine instead of chardonnay?

Absolutely! You can use any dry white wine you have on hand. Sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio would work well too.

Can I substitute the heavy whipping cream with something lighter?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk if you prefer a lighter sauce. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be a bit less creamy.

How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since it doesn't include any meat. Just make sure your parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet if you're strict about it.

What can I add to this recipe for extra flavor?

You can add some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the onion and garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, just reheat the sauce and cook the spaghetti fresh.