Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil
A rich and flavorful pasta dish layered with sweet caramelized onions and a spicy homemade chili oil—comfort food with a kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pasta, Vegetarian, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired / Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
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 aid caramelization)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Chili Oil:
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon chili flakes (adjust for spice preference)
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
For Garnish (Optional):
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Extra chili oil
Instructions
Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat.
Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally.
Add sugar (if using) to enhance caramelization.
Cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are golden and deeply caramelized. Set aside.
Make the Chili Oil
In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low-medium heat.
Add garlic and chili flakes, stirring gently for 1–2 minutes (do not burn the garlic).
Add smoked paprika and salt. Stir and remove from heat. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente (about 8–10 minutes).
Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Assemble the Dish
In the skillet with caramelized onions, add cooked pasta and toss to combine.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen and coat pasta evenly.
Pour chili oil over the pasta and toss until well coated and glossy.
Serve
Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan (if using).
Drizzle with extra chili oil for added heat and serve immediately.
Notes
Caramelizing the onions slowly is key—don’t rush!
Customize the spice level by adjusting chili flakes.
Vegan option: skip the butter and cheese, or use plant-based alternatives.
Find it online: https://elladishes.com/caramelized-onion-pasta-with-chilli-oil/
