Name: Caramelized Onion Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes and Chili Crisps Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 large onions, peeled and thinly sliced; ⅓ cup olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; ¼ cup chopped sundried tomatoes; 1 Tbsp chili crisp or chili crunch; 1 cup heavy cream; ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 lb linguine or buccatini, cooked al dente; Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

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Introduction

This caramelized onion pasta is a rich and comforting dish combining sweet, deeply caramelized onions with creamy sauce and a touch of heat from chili crisp. It’s an easy yet elegant meal that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

The image shows a close-up of a single layer of cooked spaghetti piled loosely on a white plate. The noodles are a light golden color and look glossy with oil or sauce. Small bits of toasted breadcrumbs in light brown color are scattered on and around the pasta. Tiny green parsley leaves are spread over the top adding a fresh touch. There are also small pieces of red chili flakes and white sesame seeds mixed throughout, adding pops of color. The texture of the noodles appears smooth and slightly chewy. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 large onions
⅓ cup olive oil
¼ cup chopped sundried tomatoes
1 Tbsp chili crisp or chili crunch
1 cup heavy cream
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 lb linguine or buccatini, cooked al dente
Fresh chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the onions in half and remove the peel. Thinly slice all the onions lengthwise and transfer to a large pot or wide sauté pan. Pour in the olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set the pan over medium heat until the onions just start to sizzle. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring every 5-7 minutes, for about 45 minutes or until the onions are deeply caramelized and reduced to about 1½ cups.
Step 3: Increase the heat to medium, then add the chopped sundried tomatoes, chili crisp, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then add the parmesan cheese and reduce heat back to medium-low.
Step 4: Cook the cream sauce gently for about 3-4 minutes, then add the cooked pasta and toss to combine. Let cook for 1 more minute in the sauce.
Step 5: Serve the pasta topped with extra parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley.

Tips & Variations

Use a wide, heavy-bottomed pan to caramelize the onions evenly without burning.
For a vegetarian version, ensure the parmesan is vegetarian-friendly or substitute with nutritional yeast.
Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
Swap linguine or buccatini with your favorite pasta shape like fettuccine or spaghetti.
Adjust chili crisp amount to control the spice level.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

How to Serve

A white round plate holds a mound of thin spaghetti noodles mixed with a light brown sauce. The spaghetti is topped with small bits of browned ingredients and freshly ground black pepper, adding specks of dark texture throughout. The noodles appear oily and slightly glossy, twisted and piled high in the center of the plate. A woman's hand with a natural nail color gently supports the plate from below, and the whole scene sits 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 make the caramelized onions ahead of time?

Yes, caramelized onions can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat them gently before adding the other ingredients.

What can I use if I don’t have chili crisp?

If you don’t have chili crisp, you can substitute with chili flakes and a drizzle of chili oil, or omit it for a milder flavor.