
Creamy pasta with caramelized onions combines the sweet depth of caramelized onions with the velvety creaminess of melted Brie. The slowly fried onions develop an intense, caramel-like aroma that perfectly harmonizes with the rich cheese sauce.
In my kitchen, this dish is especially popular on evenings when I want to create something special with little effort.
Carefully Selected Ingredients
- Onions: Large, sweet varieties for optimal caramelization
- Brie: Creamy and savory for the perfect sauce
- Cream: Provides velvety texture and body
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary for aromatic depth
- Pasta water: The secret for perfect sauce binding

Detailed Preparation
- Onion Caramelization:
- Cut onions evenly. Brown slowly and patiently. Turn regularly. Develop golden-brown color.
- Pasta Preparation:
- Salt water generously. Cook al dente. Reserve water. Mind timing.
- Sauce Creation:
- Briefly sauté garlic. Gently stir in cream. Slowly melt Brie. Adjust consistency.
- Finalization:
- Combine components. Incorporate pasta water. Fold in herbs. Serve immediately.
In my family, this dish is the absolute favorite for special occasions. The caramelized onions make it an unforgettable taste experience.
Perfect Accompaniments
- Serve the pasta with a crisp arugula salad with balsamic dressing
- A glass of dry white wine perfectly complements the creamy flavors
- Toasted ciabatta is excellent for soaking up the sauce
- For an elegant finish, paper-thin Parmesan shavings work well as garnish
Creative Variations
- Roasted walnuts add additional crunch
- Fried mushrooms deepen the earthy flavor
- A version with blue cheese becomes more intense
- For meat lovers, crispy bacon cubes are suitable
Optimal Preparation
- The onions need time to caramelize - at least 20-25 minutes for the perfect aroma
- The heat should remain consistently low to avoid burning
- Add the pasta directly to the sauce and cook briefly together for optimal binding
Time Management
- The onions can be caramelized in advance
- Cook pasta shortly before serving
- This organization makes preparation more relaxed
- Timing is crucial for the perfect sauce

Healthy Adaptations
- The amount of cream can be reduced by using pasta water and a little milk
- Whole grain pasta increases the fiber content
- More herbs and some lemon zest make the dish fresher
- These variations make the dish lighter
After many years of experience with pasta dishes, this version has proven to be the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. The combination of sweet onions and creamy cheese makes this dish a special experience. I find it particularly fascinating how the slow caramelization of the onions develops such a complex and deep flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do the onions need to be sautéed for so long?
- Slow cooking over medium heat develops the sweet caramel flavor of the onions and makes them particularly aromatic.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
- Yes, camembert, gorgonzola or goat cheese are good alternatives to brie.
- → Which pasta works best?
- All types work well. Shapes that hold sauce well, like penne, fusilli or farfalle, are particularly suitable.
- → Can the dish be prepared in advance?
- The onions can be sautéed in advance. Prepare the sauce fresh and always cook the pasta fresh.
- → Can I replace the cream with something else?
- Plant-based cream or a mixture of milk and some cream cheese are possible alternatives.