Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil Recipe

Introduction

Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Slow-cooked onions bring deep richness, while the fragrant chili oil adds a smoky heat. This comforting dish is easy to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine recommended)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing onions and garlic)
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (for chili oil)
• 1 tablespoon red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 small garlic clove, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Thinly slice the onion into even rings. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions with a pinch of salt and sauté, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes until golden and caramelized.
2. Step 2: About 5 minutes before the onions are done, add the minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
3. Step 3: In a small saucepan, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
4. Step 4: Stir in the red chili flakes and paprika. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the oil is infused with spice and smokiness.
5. Step 5: Add 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, stir well, and simmer for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. Step 6: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
7. Step 7: Toss the cooked pasta with the caramelized onions. Drizzle the chili oil over and mix well to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the pasta seems dry, to loosen the sauce.
8. Step 8: Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil or parsley, and extra chili flakes if desired. Serve hot immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Be patient when caramelizing onions—low and slow heat develops the best flavor.
• Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richer taste in both the pasta and chili oil.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to the noodles.
• For a vegan version, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
• Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for more texture and nutrients.
• Adjust the chili flakes amount to control the spice level to your liking.
• Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. The flavors may deepen after resting, making for tasty leftovers.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this dish?

Yes, any pasta shape works, but long shapes like spaghetti or linguine are especially good for coating with the chili oil and caramelized onions.

How spicy is the chili oil?

The chili oil has a moderate heat level, but you can easily adjust it by reducing or increasing the amount of red chili flakes added.

Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 61 reviews

Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the sweet richness of slow-cooked caramelized onions with the bold heat of homemade chili oil. This pasta features tender noodles coated in savory, aromatic onions and a smoky, spicy chili oil, finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal with friends, this recipe is simple yet impressive, with options to customize according to your dietary preferences.

• Author: Rami
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Lunch
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, linguine, or preferred shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chili Oil:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
• 1 tablespoon red chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 small garlic clove, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

For Garnishing:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Extra chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the onion into even rings for uniform cooking. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions with a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture. Cook slowly, stirring every 5-7 minutes to ensure even caramelization without burning, for about 25-30 minutes until golden and soft. About 5 minutes before completion, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then set aside.
2. Make the Chili Oil: In a small saucepan, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in red chili flakes and paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes to infuse the oil with smoky and spicy flavors. Add 1 teaspoon soy sauce for umami, stir well, and simmer for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside once aromatic.
3. Cook the Pasta: While onions are caramelizing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set cooked pasta aside.
4. Combine Pasta and Onions: Add caramelized onions to the pasta and toss to combine thoroughly. Drizzle the prepared chili oil over the pasta and toss again to coat evenly, allowing the heat of the pasta to meld with the oil. If the mixture feels dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches a smooth, glossy consistency.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil or parsley. Add extra chili flakes if additional heat is desired. Serve the pasta hot immediately as a satisfying main dish, or pair with protein or salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Be patient when caramelizing onions; low and slow cooking develops the best sweetness and flavor.
• Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for both the chili oil and onion cooking to enhance flavor.
• Reserving pasta water is key to creating a silky sauce that clings well to noodles.
• Adjust chili flakes in the oil to control the heat level; add a little olive oil if too spicy.
• To make vegan, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
• Add sautéed vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to customize the dish.

Keywords: caramelized onion pasta, chili oil pasta, spicy pasta recipe, vegetarian Italian pasta, easy weeknight dinner, sweet and spicy pasta