Description
This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil is a flavorful and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring sweet, slow-cooked onions tossed with al dente pasta and finished with a spicy, aromatic homemade chilli oil. The silky sauce is created by combining caramelized onions with reserved pasta water, enriched by a touch of butter, and topped with optional Parmesan and fresh parsley for an easy yet elegant weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Onions
- 8 ounces spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to aid caramelization)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for topping)
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Chilli Oil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2–3 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 garlic clove, smashed
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Make the Chilli Oil: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the olive oil with red pepper flakes, smashed garlic, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Allow the ingredients to infuse for 5–7 minutes, then remove from heat and discard the garlic. Set the infused oil aside.
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook slowly for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Stir in the butter during the last 5 minutes to add richness to the flavor.
- Cook the Pasta: While the onions are cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Assemble the Dish: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Toss well to combine, gradually adding the reserved pasta water to achieve a silky, cohesive sauce. Drizzle the prepared chilli oil over the pasta to taste, then toss again to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Serve: Plate the pasta hot, topping with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a handful of sautéed greens like spinach or kale.
- Adjust the heat of the chilli oil by increasing or decreasing the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- Using sugar to aid in caramelization is optional but helps develop a deeper sweetness in the onions.
- Grated Parmesan and parsley are optional but recommended for added depth and freshness.
- If you prefer a vegan version, omit the butter and Parmesan or substitute with plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
