Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil Recipe
This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines sweet, deeply caramelized onions with a spicy, aromatic chili oil. The pasta is perfectly coated with a rich mixture of slow-cooked onions and infused oil, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, creating a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 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
For the Chili Oil:
- 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
For Garnishing:
- Grated Parmesan cheese, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Extra chili flakes (optional, for added heat)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the onion evenly to ensure uniform caramelization. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large, deep skillet or saucepan. Add the sliced onions, season with a pinch of salt, and cook, stirring every 5-7 minutes, until the onions soften and turn a rich golden brown, approximately 25-30 minutes. Five minutes before finishing, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Season with freshly ground black pepper and additional salt to taste. Set aside.
- Make the Chili Oil: In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil without letting it get too hot. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the red chili flakes and paprika, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to infuse the oil with spice and smokiness. Add 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, stir well, and simmer for 2 more minutes. Remove the pan from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: While the onions caramelize, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining the noodles. Set the pasta aside.
- Combine the Pasta and Onions: Toss the cooked pasta with the caramelized onions in a large bowl or pan ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Drizzle the chili oil over the mixture and toss thoroughly to achieve a glossy finish. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and better coat the noodles.
- Garnish and Serve: Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, then add chopped fresh basil or parsley for freshness and color. Optionally, add extra chili flakes for additional heat. Serve immediately while hot, optionally paired with a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For even caramelization, ensure onions are sliced uniformly thick.
- Adjust red chili flakes in chili oil to suit your preferred spice level.
- Use extra virgin olive oil in the chili oil for best flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Parmesan cheese adds creaminess but can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
Keywords: Caramelized onion pasta, chili oil pasta, spicy pasta recipe, caramelized onions recipe, easy Italian pasta, vegetarian pasta dish
