Description

Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a flavorful dish that combines the deep sweetness of slow-cooked onions with the bold spiciness of homemade chili oil. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and garnished with Parmesan and fresh herbs, this dish offers a comforting yet exciting balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Ideal for a cozy dinner or meal prep, it’s simple to make, versatile, and satisfies a range of palates.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine)
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
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

Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the onion into even rings for uniform cooking. 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 every 5-7 minutes for 25-30 minutes, until golden and soft. About 5 minutes before finishing, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then set aside.
Make the Chili Oil: Warm 3 tablespoons olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes without browning. Stir in red chili flakes and paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes so the spices infuse the oil. Add 1 teaspoon soy sauce, stir and simmer for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Combine Pasta and Onions: Toss the cooked pasta with caramelized onions, ensuring an even coating. Drizzle the chili oil over the mixture and toss well to combine. If the pasta looks dry, gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and create a silky texture.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the pasta. Add chopped fresh basil or parsley for freshness and color. For extra heat, optionally sprinkle more chili flakes on top. Serve immediately while hot, ideally with a side salad or protein of choice.

Notes

Be patient when caramelizing onions; slow cooking is essential for deep sweetness.
Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor in both pasta and chili oil.
Always reserve pasta water to help create a smooth, cohesive sauce.
Adjust chili flakes to suit your preferred spice level; add honey to chili oil if you prefer a touch of sweetness.
This recipe keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.
To make vegan, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative and ensure no butter is used in chili oil preparation.
Feel free to add sautéed vegetables or protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp for variation.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Keywords: caramelized onion pasta, chili oil pasta, spicy pasta, vegetarian pasta, comfort food, pasta recipe, easy dinner