Creamy Pasta with Caramelized Onions
Serves: 4
Prep time: 10-15 minutes
Cook time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients
- 250 g short pasta (small shells or macaroni)
- La Belle Excuse Extra Virgin Green Olive Oil
- 3 yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) La Belle Excuse Traditional Balsamic Vinegar
- A few sprigs of La Belle Excuse Mountain Oregano Dried on Stem
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) butter
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) flour
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) La Belle Excuse Roasted Garlic and White Balsamic Mustard
- 750 ml (3 cups) milk
- 250 ml (1 cup) grated Emmental cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 250 ml (1 cup) grated Havarti cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 250 ml (1 cup) grated Mozzarella cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh chives, chopped
Steps
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle olive oil and add the sliced onions. Season generously with salt and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Lower the heat, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the onions begin to caramelize, add the balsamic vinegar and oregano. Rub the oregano sprigs between your hands to release the leaves while keeping the stems. Cook for another 5 minutes until the onions are golden and caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large deep pan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute while stirring.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Gradually add the cheeses, stirring constantly, and season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and half the caramelized onions. Mix well.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to an oven-safe dish. Top with the remaining caramelized onions and extra cheese.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden finish.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives.