Pin Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil is the kind of meal that surprises you with its simplicity but delivers big, layered flavor in every bite. Sweet onions melt down and mingle with vibrant chilli oil, creating a dish that feels comforting and bold at the same time. It is a pasta night upgrade that is both easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough to share.
This dish became a last minute favorite when I wanted something special but only had basics in my kitchen. The first forkful got me hooked and now I reach for this recipe when I want a balance of cozy and exciting.
Ingredients
- Pasta any variety such as spaghetti or penne: Choose one with nooks or flat sides to hold the sauces
- Salt for pasta water: Brightens flavor and seasons pasta from within
- Large onions: Thinly sliced and slow cooked These bring deep sweetness and a luxurious texture The more golden the more flavor
- Olive oil: High quality oil will make both the onions and chili oil shine
- Butter: Adds richness and makes the onions silkier
- Sugar: Optional but helps speed and deepen caramelization Use just a little for best results
- Chili flakes: Brings heat and character Go mild or fiery according to your taste Test freshness by checking for a spicy kick when you open the jar
- Garlic clove: Freshly minced gives the chili oil its signature warmth and aroma
- Smoked paprika: Optional Adds a subtle smokiness Spanish smoked paprika is especially bold
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balance and seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Brings freshness and color Look for bright green leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish: Optional A savory finish Choose real Parmigiano Reggiano if possible
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions:
- Start with prepping the onions Slice them thin to create lots of surface area for browning
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In a large skillet warm olive oil and butter over medium low heat Add onions and a pinch of salt Stir often Cook gently for up to thirty minutes The onions should become soft then deepen to a rich golden brown This slow process unlocks sweetness and complexity Sprinkle with sugar midway if you want a deeper color Faster patience brings the flavor Set aside when perfectly caramelized
- Craft the Chilli Oil:
- In a small saucepan warm olive oil over low medium heat Stir in minced garlic and chili flakes Let them gently sizzle for one to two minutes The garlic should soften and become fragrant but never brown Stir in smoked paprika and salt for aroma and warmth Remove from heat to cool and infuse
- Boil the Pasta:
- While your onions are finishing Bring a generous pot of salted water to a rolling boil Drop in your pasta Stir at first to avoid sticking Cook to al dente reserving half a cup of cooking water before draining The salty water will help bind the sauce later
- Combine Pasta and Onions:
- Return the pasta to the skillet with onions Toss together over low heat Add splashes of the reserved pasta water as needed The starches in the water help everything come together in a silky coating
- Dress with Chilli Oil:
- Pour the chili oil over the pasta Stir to thoroughly combine Taste and add more chili oil if you like extra heat
- Garnish and Serve:
- Use chopped fresh parsley and generous shavings of Parmesan cheese Drizzle with extra chili oil for spicy lovers Serve hot and enjoy immediately
Pin Onions steal the show in this recipe Their transformation from sharp and crunchy to soft and candy sweet is nothing short of magic I remember the first time my family asked why the kitchen smelled so good and now it is our request for birthdays and snow days
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in the fridge in a covered container for up to three days If you plan on eating later store sauce and pasta separately for best texture Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in gluten free pasta if needed Whole wheat pasta brings a deeper nutty flavor For the chili oil try Aleppo pepper or even red pepper paste for something different Dairy free butter or omitting cheese makes it fully vegan
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad and lemon vinaigrette For extra protein add chickpeas or scoop of ricotta on top If you like crunch finish with toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts
Pin Candy sweet onions and bold chili oil make this pasta unforgettable Serve it hot and enjoy every comforting bite whether solo or with friends
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne all work well, as they hold the rich onion flavor and coat nicely with chilli oil.
- → How long should I caramelize the onions?
Cook onions for 25-30 minutes on low heat until they're deep golden and very sweet, stirring occasionally for even color.
- → How spicy is the chilli oil?
The heat depends on the amount of chilli flakes used. Start with less and increase to your preferred spice level.
- → Can I prepare the onions ahead of time?
Yes, caramelized onions store well in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, making weeknight prep easier.
- → What garnishes complement the dish?
Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese bring brightness and richness. An extra drizzle of chilli oil adds more kick.
- → Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Roasted bell peppers or zucchini work beautifully, enhancing texture and adding extra flavor to the pasta.