Caramelized Onion Chili Oil Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Caramelized Onion Chili Oil Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of slowly cooked onions with the spicy kick of chili oil. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• Pasta – 8 ounces
• Onions – 2 medium, thinly sliced
• Chili oil – 2 tablespoons
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
• Salt – to taste
• Pepper – to taste
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (optional, for caramelizing)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or use the chili oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and caramelized. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
2. Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water.
3. Step 3: Add the cooked pasta to the caramelized onions in the skillet. Pour in the chili oil and toss everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use sweet onions like Vidalia or Maui for a richer caramelized flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat if you prefer it spicier.
• Finish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for a bright touch.
• For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a little water or olive oil to prevent drying out. This pasta is best enjoyed fresh but keeps well for quick meals.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape works, though longer strands like spaghetti or linguine pair nicely with the caramelized onions and chili oil.

Is chili oil very spicy?

The heat level of chili oil can vary by brand and recipe. If you prefer milder flavors, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

Caramelized Onion Chili Oil Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 68 reviews

This Caramelized Onion Chili Oil Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines sweet, caramelized onions with the spicy kick of chili oil, perfectly tossed with al dente pasta and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s an easy-to-make meal that brings a balance of savory, sweet, and heat in every bite.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 200g dried pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)

Onions

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste

Chili Oil

• 3 tbsp chili oil (store-bought or homemade)

Toppings

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until the onions are golden brown and sweetly caramelized. Be careful not to burn them.
2. Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
3. Toss Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with caramelized onions. Pour in the chili oil and toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly. If the mixture seems dry, add small amounts of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Plate the pasta and generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor.

Notes

• For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Adjust the amount of chili oil based on your spice tolerance.
• If you prefer a smokier flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the onions while caramelizing.
• Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for best taste.
• This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

Keywords: Caramelized onion pasta, chili oil pasta, easy pasta recipe, spicy pasta, Italian pasta dish