Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil Recipe

Introduction

Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a deliciously rich and flavorful dish that combines sweet, savory onions with a spicy, aromatic chili oil. It’s a perfect choice for a comforting weeknight dinner that feels special but is easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, linguine, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• 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: Prepare the onions by thinly slicing them 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 cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until they are soft and golden brown.
2. Step 2: About 5 minutes before the onions are done, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then set aside.
3. Step 3: For the chili oil, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a small saucepan 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, cooking for 2-3 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon soy sauce, stir well, and simmer for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Step 5: While onions are caramelizing, 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.
6. Step 6: Toss the cooked pasta with the caramelized onions, ensuring the noodles are well coated. Drizzle the chili oil over the pasta and toss again.
7. Step 7: If the pasta looks dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta.
8. Step 8: Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil or parsley, and extra chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

• Use long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine for better coating with caramelized onions and chili oil.
• Adjust chili flakes in the oil to control the level of spice to your liking.
• For a vegan version, skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright, fresh contrast.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out. The flavors are best enjoyed fresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of onions for this recipe?

Yes, but yellow onions work best for caramelizing due to their natural sweetness. Red onions or sweet onions can be used but may result in a slightly different flavor.

How spicy is the chili oil?

The chili oil has a moderate heat level that can be adjusted by varying the amount of red chili flakes. Use less for a mild version or more if you prefer it spicy.

Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 129 reviews

This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a flavorful and aromatic dish featuring sweet, slow-cooked onions tossed with al dente pasta and a spicy, smoky chili oil. Finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, it’s a simple yet elegant meal perfect for spice lovers seeking a comforting Italian-inspired twist.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine recommended)
• 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
• 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

1. Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the onion evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt to help release moisture. Stir every 5-7 minutes as the onions cook for about 25-30 minutes until golden and soft. Five minutes before done, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper; then set aside.
2. Make the Chili Oil: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat, warming it gently. Add thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes without browning. Stir in red chili flakes and paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add 1 teaspoon soy sauce and simmer for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Cook the Pasta: While onions caramelize, 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 and set aside.
4. Combine Pasta and Onions: Toss the cooked pasta with the caramelized onions to coat the noodles evenly. Drizzle the prepared chili oil over the pasta and mix well. Add reserved pasta water gradually if needed to loosen the sauce and enhance coating.
5. Garnish and Serve: Top the pasta with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley. Sprinkle additional chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately while hot, either as a standalone dish or alongside a fresh salad.

Notes

• For best caramelization, keep the heat medium-low and be patient; rushing this step may cause burning.
• Adjust chili flakes in the oil to suit your spice preference.
• Reserve pasta water to help the sauce adhere better to noodles, making the dish moist.
• Use extra virgin olive oil for richer flavor in the chili oil.
• Parmesan and fresh herbs enhance depth and freshness—don’t skip the garnishes.
• This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

Keywords: caramelized onion pasta, chili oil pasta, spicy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, easy Italian pasta, homemade chili oil