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 pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended); 1 tablespoon red chili flakes (adjust to spice preference); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 small garlic clove, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; Grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped; Extra chili flakes (optional)

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Introduction

This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of slow-cooked onions with a spicy, smoky chili oil. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it’s easy to make and sure to satisfy your taste buds.

A close-up view of a single serving of spaghetti pasta layered in a white bowl, the noodles are lightly coated in a shiny, golden-brown sauce with specks of black pepper throughout. On top, there are small pieces of dark red chili flakes and finely chopped green herbs adding a splash of color. The strands of spaghetti are glistening and slightly twisted, with some sesame seeds scattered around, giving it texture and depth. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, linguine, or your choice)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
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 (adjust to spice preference)
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, for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Thinly slice the onion into even rings for even caramelization. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally. Cook for 25-30 minutes until golden and soft, stirring every 5-7 minutes to avoid burning.
Step 2: About 5 minutes before the onions finish, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
Step 3: In a small saucepan, warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Stir in the red chili flakes and paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes until aromatic. Add the soy sauce, stir, and simmer for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 6: Toss the cooked pasta with the caramelized onions until well combined.
Step 7: Drizzle the chili oil over the pasta and toss again. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the pasta seems dry to achieve a glossy coating.
Step 8: Garnish generously with grated Parmesan and chopped fresh basil or parsley. Add extra chili flakes if desired.
Step 9: Serve immediately, enjoying the balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.

Tips & Variations

Use long pasta shapes like linguine or spaghetti to better catch the chili oil and onions.
Adjust chili flakes to suit your heat preference, or substitute with fresh chopped chili for a different spicy profile.
For a vegan option, skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Try adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to restore the sauce’s texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a large black cooking pan filled with spaghetti pasta coated in a creamy orange sauce. The spaghetti noodles are mixed evenly with small green parsley leaves scattered on top, adding a fresh touch. There are tiny bits of what looks like sun-dried tomatoes or roasted peppers mixed in, giving texture and color variation among the noodles. The pan rests on a white marbled surface, with a white bowl filled with cheese and some green herbs visible blurred in the background. 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, you can substitute yellow onions with white or red onions, but yellow onions caramelize best and offer the sweetest flavor.

How can I make the dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of red chili flakes in the chili oil, or omit them entirely. You can also swap chili flakes for a mild paprika to keep flavor without heat.