Caramelized Onion & Garlic Pasta Recipe

By VegasBartender

This full-flavored recipe is the result of my mom's love of pasta and our love of cooking together. With a bit of pepper heat and smoky bacon, the entree is excellent alone or paired with grilled chicken.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 8 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil, divided
• 1 package (16 ounces) uncooked angel hair pasta
• 9 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
• 2/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
• Fresh basil leaves, optional

Preparation

Step 1

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add the onions, pepper flakes and salt; saute until onions are tender. Stir in garlic. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until onions are deep golden brown.

Add the tomatoes, vinegar and 2 tablespoons oil to the skillet. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain pasta; toss with onion mixture.

Drizzle with remaining olive oil. Sprinkle with bacon, cheese, and pepper; heat through. Garnish with basil if desired.
Yield: 6 servings.