Name: Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne works well); Salt (for boiling pasta water); 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to help caramelize); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon chili flakes (adjust based on preferred spice level); 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; Fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese; Extra chili oil

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Introduction

This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines sweet, slow-cooked onions with a spicy, aromatic chili oil. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal, it brings rich, layered tastes to your table with minimal effort.

A white bowl holds a single serving of spaghetti arranged in a round, tall nest. The spaghetti is coated in a glossy, reddish-brown sauce with visible small pieces of red chili peppers and specks of finely chopped green herbs sprinkled on top. The noodles have a shiny texture with some darker caramelized spots, showing a mix of smooth and slightly crispy surfaces. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne works well)
Salt (for boiling pasta water)
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to help caramelize)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon chili flakes (adjust based on preferred spice level)
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Extra chili oil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon sugar over the onions if using. Cook the onions gently for 25-30 minutes until they turn a deep golden-brown color, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Set aside once caramelized.
Step 3: In a small saucepan, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over low to medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chili flakes, stirring occasionally to infuse the oil for about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika and 1/2 teaspoon salt, then remove the chili oil from heat and set aside.
Step 5: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 6: Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
Step 7: Return the skillet used for the onions to medium heat. Add the cooked pasta and toss with the caramelized onions. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta evenly.
Step 8: Pour the prepared chili oil over the pasta and toss well to combine and coat all the noodles.
Step 9: Serve the pasta plated and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Drizzle extra chili oil on top for additional heat if you like.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use shallots instead of onions or add a splash of white wine while cooking the onions.
Adjust chili flakes to control the heat level in the chili oil.
Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or vegan cheese alternatives for different tastes.
Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture and nuttiness.

Storage

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out. The chili oil can be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a plate of spaghetti with three layers visible: the bottom layer is thick, light golden pasta noodles, the middle layer consists of a mix of dark brown caramelized onions and red chili flakes scattered around, and the top layer is sprinkled with bright green chopped parsley and small shreds of grated cheese. The pasta looks glossy and slightly oily, served in a white plate with a textured black bowl inside, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made chili oil instead of making my own?

Yes, you can substitute store-bought chili oil to save time. Just adjust the quantity based on your preferred spice level.

How do I know when the onions are properly caramelized?

Properly caramelized onions take on a deep golden-brown color and become very soft and sweet in flavor. The process usually takes about 25-30 minutes over low heat with occasional stirring.