Name: Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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 freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 small garlic clove, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; Grated Parmesan cheese, to taste; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped; Extra chili flakes (optional, for added heat)

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Introduction

This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that will elevate your weeknight dinners. The slow-cooked onions add a rich depth, while the homemade chili oil brings a smoky heat that perfectly complements the pasta.

A close-up view of a dish showing a mound of translucent white noodles with a glossy texture, piled in the middle of a white plate with a slightly rough surface. The noodles are mixed with thin, dark brown caramelized onion strips scattered evenly on top and throughout. Small green herb leaves are sprinkled lightly over the noodles, adding a touch of color contrast. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with some chili flakes visible on a wooden spoon near the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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)

Instructions

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 sliced onions with a pinch of salt and sauté, stirring occasionally, until they soften and turn golden brown, about 25-30 minutes. Add the minced garlic about 5 minutes before the onions are done and cook until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
Step 2: Make the chili oil by warming 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes without browning. Stir in the red chili flakes and paprika, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, stir well, and simmer for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: While the onions caramelize, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 4: Combine the cooked pasta and caramelized onions in a large bowl or pot. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the onions. Drizzle the chili oil over the pasta and mix well. If the pasta looks dry, add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish with a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley. Sprinkle extra chili flakes if you prefer more heat. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

Use long pasta like spaghetti or linguine for the best texture and sauce coating.
Adjust chili flakes in the oil to suit your spice preference.
For a vegan option, skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess and prevent drying out. The chili oil may solidify when cold; warm it slightly before mixing in.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a shiny stainless steel pan filled with creamy spaghetti pasta. The pasta is light golden yellow with a smooth, slightly oily texture and is mixed well with caramelized onion bits and small flecks of dark red chili flakes. Freshly chopped green parsley pieces are scattered evenly on top, adding a fresh, vibrant touch. The sauce coating the pasta gives it a glossy, rich look with some black pepper specks visible throughout. In the background, there is a small glass bowl with grated Parmesan cheese 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 other types of onions?

Yes, yellow onions work best for sweetness when caramelized, but you can use white or red onions if preferred. Just note the flavor might be slightly different.

How spicy is the chili oil?

The chili oil has a moderate heat that can be adjusted by adding more or fewer chili flakes. You can make it mild or fiery according to your taste by modifying the amount of chili flakes used.