Description

Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors. Featuring slow-cooked caramelized onions that impart rich depth, this pasta is elevated with a drizzle of homemade chili oil for an added kick. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a special gathering, this recipe merges comfort food with an exciting twist that spice enthusiasts will adore. It’s easy to make and versatile enough to serve as a main course or alongside your favorite salad.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine)
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 the 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 (for garnish)
Extra chili flakes (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Caramelize the onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sprinkle with salt. Cook for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic in the last five minutes.
Make the chili oil: In a small saucepan, warm olive oil over medium heat. Sauté sliced garlic until fragrant, then add chili flakes and paprika, stirring for about 2-3 minutes. Pour in soy sauce and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving one cup of pasta water before draining.
Combine: Mix caramelized onions into the drained pasta and drizzle with chili oil, adding reserved pasta water if necessary for desired consistency.
Serve: Garnish with Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and additional chili flakes if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 10mg