Print

Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 60 reviews

This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines sweet, slow-cooked onions with a spicy, aromatic chili oil. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it features tender pasta coated in a luscious mixture of caramelized onions and infused chili oil, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for an added touch of freshness and richness.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne works well)
  • Salt (for boiling pasta water)

For the Caramelized Onions:

  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to help caramelize)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chilli Oil:

  • 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

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Extra chili oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally to ensure the onions cook evenly. Sprinkle sugar (if using) to help with the caramelization process. Cook the onions for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn a deep golden-brown color. The longer they cook, the sweeter and richer the flavor will become. Set aside once done.
  2. Make the Chilli Oil: In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low to medium heat. Add minced garlic and chili flakes. Let the garlic infuse into the oil, stirring occasionally, for about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add smoked paprika (if using) and salt, then stir to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
  4. Combine Everything: In the same skillet used for the onions, add the cooked pasta and toss to combine with the caramelized onions. If needed, add a little reserved pasta water to help the ingredients come together and coat the pasta evenly. Pour the chili oil over the pasta and toss again to ensure all the pasta is coated with the spicy, flavorful oil.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Drizzle with extra chili oil if you like more spice, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Cooking the onions slowly over low heat is key to achieving rich, sweet caramelization.
  • Adjust the amount of chili flakes in the oil to control the spice level.
  • Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta better.
  • For a vegan version, omit butter and Parmesan or use vegan substitutes.
  • Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice depth of smoky flavor to the chili oil.

Find it online: https://forkoria.com/caramelized-onion-pasta-with-chili-oil-recipe/