If you think Pasta with Carrots and Onions sounds too simple to be delicious, think again! This humble Lithuanian classic transforms basic pantry staples into a bowl of pure comfort, packed with a savory flavor that just works. It’s quick, cheesy, and proof that sometimes, the simplest meals are the best.
Growing up in Lithuania, this was one of those pasta recipes that made a weekly appearance on our table, and I never complained. It felt indulgent with its melty, stringy cheese and those little crispy pasta bits at the bottom of the pan—pure magic! My mom called it “poor man’s food” because it was so budget-friendly, but for me, it was a dish the whole family loved, and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
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Ingredient Notes
Here's everything you will need for this simple pasta with carrots and onions:
- olive oil or butter.
- onion: yellow or brown onion is typically used in Lithuania, but red onions and shallots will work too.
- carrots: one large or two medium carrots for two portions.
- tomato ketchup: may be replaced with half the amount of tomato puree.
- pasta: penne, rigatoni or bowtie pasta was typically used in my childhood.
- grated cheese: choose the type of cheese that melts well, like Cheddar, Gouda or even Mozzarella.
EXTRAS: This Lithuanian pasta recipe is like a blank canvas to add your own twist to. Adding grated zucchini or diced bell peppers is a great way to up your vegetable intake. Add some red pepper flakes for a little heat!
Step-By-Step Method
1. Heat neutral oil or melt butter in a large frying pan.
2. Add the carrots and onion and saute over low-medium heat for 10-15 minutes, until softened.
3. In the meantime, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water, following the packet instructions.
4. When your carrots and onions are soft, stir in tomato ketchup.
TOP TIP: If you like a smooth carrot pasta sauce instead, add the sauteed vegetables, ketchup and a few tablespoons of pasta water into a food processor and blitz it into a smooth sauce to make a creamy pasta dish!
5. Add the drained cooked pasta and mix well to combine.
6. Scatter grated cheese on top of the pasta, cover it with a lid, and leave the pan on low heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese melts. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
In Lithuanian, we would have this simple pasta with carrots and onions on its own, but these days we love adding a green side salad or some steamed green beans for extra protein. It will also make a nice side dish to baked chicken!
Storage
It is best served freshly made, but store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave with a little extra cheese on top!
More Simple Lithuanian Recipes
If you loved this dish, next time try more simple Lithuanian recipes that are just as comforting, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor! One of my favorite childhood favourites were Pan-Fried Sliced Potatoes.
Pasta With Carrots and Onions (Simple Lithuanian Pasta)
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 1 large carrot (approx 150g/ 5-6oz) coarsely grated
- 2-3 tablespoon tomato ketchup
- 7 oz (200g) pasta
- 1¼ cups (100g) grated cheese like Cheddar or Gouda
Instructions
- Heat neutral oil or melt butter in a large frying pan.
- Add the carrots and onion and saute over low heat for 10-15 minutes, until softened.
- In the meantime, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water, following the packet instructions.
- When your carrots and onions are soft, stir in tomato ketchup.
- Add the drained pasta and mix well to combine.
- Scatter grated cheese on top of the pasta, cover it with a lid, and leave the pan on low heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese melts. Enjoy!
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