Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Linguine with Caramelized Onions
If you love pasta recipes that are both comforting and flavorful, this Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Linguine with Caramelized Onions is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With golden, sweet caramelized onions, aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and tender linguine, this slow cooker pasta is an effortless yet elegant meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Hands-off cooking – Let your slow cooker do most of the work.
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Flavor-packed – Caramelized onions add natural sweetness, while herbs bring freshness.
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Versatile – Add chicken, shrimp, or veggies to make it heartier.
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Family-friendly – Mild yet rich flavors that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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8 oz linguine pasta (regular or gluten-free)
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2 large onions, thinly sliced
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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2 cups vegetable broth
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
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1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
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Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter.
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Once melted, add thinly sliced onions.
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Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.
Tip: Keep the heat on medium-low to avoid burning and bring out the onions’ natural sweetness.
Step 2: Add Garlic
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Stir in the minced garlic with the onions.
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Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Transfer to the Slow Cooker
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Move the caramelized onions and garlic mixture into your slow cooker.
Step 4: Add Seasonings & Broth
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Sprinkle in thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
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Pour in vegetable broth and stir well.
Step 5: Add Linguine
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Break the linguine pasta in half so it fits inside the slow cooker.
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Submerge it completely in the broth mixture.
Step 6: Slow Cook
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Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours, or until the pasta is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
Tip: Stir once halfway through cooking to prevent pasta from clumping.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Herbs
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Stir in fresh parsley and chives right before serving for a burst of freshness.
Step 8: Serve & Enjoy
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Plate the linguine hot, topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Variations & Expert Tips
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Add Protein – Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for extra protein.
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Make It Creamy – Add a splash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta before serving.
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Change the Herbs – Swap thyme and oregano with basil, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
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Onion Choice – Use Vidalia onions for a naturally sweeter flavor.
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Gluten-Free Option – Replace with gluten-free linguine (adjust cooking time slightly).
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with:
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A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
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Garlic bread or cheesy flatbread.
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A glass of white wine for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the pasta.
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Avoid freezing as pasta may lose texture.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Linguine with Caramelized Onions is the definition of comfort food made simple. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect pasta dish to add to your slow cooker recipe collection. Whether served as a main course or a side, this dish will impress your family and guests every time.