Close-up of caramelized onion and chestnut pasta, showing golden onions, chestnuts, and fresh rosemary coating the pasta.

This caramelized onion chestnut pasta is a comforting yet elegant savoury dish made with golden onions, earthy chestnuts, fragrant rosemary, and a splash of brandy to finish. It’s a deeply flavourful pasta that feels both rustic and festive, perfect for cooler evenings or a relaxed holiday table.

Jump to Recipe

Caramelized onion and chestnut pasta with rosemary on a festive table, with Daisy the cat watching closely in the background.

Hey folks – I hope you all are doing well!

With the holidays approaching quickly, I’m leaning into cozy, savoury comfort dishes that feel special without being complicated. This pasta is simple to prepare but rich in flavour, filling the kitchen with warmth and aroma and working just as well for a quiet dinner as it does for festive gatherings. So, let’s dive into this caramelized onion chestnut pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Caramelized Onion Chestnut Pasta

Comforting: Slowly caramelized onions create a deep, savoury base that feels rich and satisfying.
Seasonal and Festive: Chestnuts, rosemary, and nutmeg give this pasta a distinctly winter-ready feel and a holiday vibe.
Simple: Made with everyday ingredients and straightforward techniques.
Elegant: A splash of brandy adds depth and polish without overpowering the dish.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Hearty and flavourful without relying on meat or heavy sauces.

Flavour and Texture Profile

This pasta is softly sweet from the caramelized onions, earthy and nutty from the chestnuts, and gently aromatic thanks to fresh rosemary and a hint of nutmeg. The texture is comforting and cohesive, with tender pasta coated in a silky onion-and-butter base, finished with a subtle warmth from the brandy.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Caramelized Onion and Chestnut Pasta with Brandy and Rosemary

Short pasta: Penne or fusilli work especially well here, as their shape holds onto the caramelized onions and chestnut pieces, ensuring flavour in every bite.
Onions: Slowly cooked until soft and deeply golden, they form the sweet, savoury backbone of the dish.
Chestnuts: Peeled, vacuum-packed chestnuts make this recipe easy and accessible while providing earthy sweetness.
Extra Virgin Olive oil: Used to start the caramelization process, adding balance and preventing the butter from burning.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky coating for the pasta once combined.
Fresh rosemary: Finely chopped to release its aromatic, piney notes, which pair beautifully with chestnuts.
Nutmeg: Just a small pinch brings gentle warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.
Brandy: Added at the end to deglaze the pan, lifting all the caramelized flavours and tying the dish together.
Salt: Essential for seasoning both the pasta water and the onions as they cook.

How to Make Festive Chestnut Pasta

Heat olive oil and butter in a wide, preferably heavy-bottomed skillet, over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, then cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft, lightly golden and caramelized, for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step takes time but builds the foundation of the dish.

Stir in the chopped chestnuts, fresh rosemary, and nutmeg, allowing everything to warm through and become fragrant. Pour in the brandy to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits, then cook briefly until the alcohol has cooked off and the sauce is glossy.

In the meantime, cook the pasta in well-salted water until al dente. Reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining. Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing gently to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed and cook for 1 minute. Adjust seasoning, and serve immediately.

More Holiday Pasta Recipes with Chestnuts

Are you looking for more festive chestnut pasta recipes, like this caramelized onion chestnut pasta? Be sure to check more recipes below:

I’d love for you to try this caramelized onion and chestnut pasta with brandy, rosemary, and nutmeg. If you give this chestnut pasta recipe a go, please share your results in the comments, message me on Instagram, or post your photos with the hashtag #havocinthekitchen. I look forward to seeing your creations and hearing your thoughts!

Cheers!