I love simple meals that taste bold. Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil is one of my go-to weeknight wins because it treats simple pasta like a star. If you like bold contrasts, try a small plate like sweet and spicy whipped feta crostini to start.
My Dad James taught me to watch onions like a hawk, and my sister Jennifer always adds extra chili. Mom Eva says pasta brings us back to the table every time.
Gathering Your Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta: Choose any shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or linguine. Long pasta shapes work especially well for this dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
- 1 large yellow onion: Thinly sliced. This will be the base for the sweet and savory caramelization.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced, for an aromatic base.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the onions and pasta.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: For the base of the chili oil. Extra virgin olive oil works best for its fruity flavor.
- 1 tablespoon red chili flakes: Adjust this depending on your spice tolerance. You can use less for a mild version or more for a fiery kick.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky flavor to complement the chili flakes.
- 1 small garlic clove: Thinly sliced, to infuse the oil with additional depth.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: For a touch of umami and extra flavor in the chili oil.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For added creaminess and savory flavor.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Chopped, to add a fresh, herbal touch.
- Extra chili flakes: Optional, for a bit of extra heat.
The Tools That Help
I use a wide skillet for caramelizing and a pot for the pasta. A fine grater for Parmesan makes the cheese melt nicely. For a one-pan vibe, I sometimes pair this pasta with a simple sheet pan main like the sheet pan chicken and sweet potatoes with broccoli and apples for an easy dinner plan.
The Step-by-Step Process
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet and add the thinly sliced onion.
- Cook onions low and slow until deep golden and sweet.
- Add 3 cloves minced garlic near the end and season with salt and pepper.
- Warm 3 tablespoons olive oil in a small pan for the chili oil.
- Add 1 tablespoon red chili flakes, 1 teaspoon paprika, and the sliced small garlic clove to the oil and cook gently.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon soy sauce and take the chili oil off the heat to infuse.
- Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente and reserve some pasta water.
- Toss the drained pasta with the caramelized onions and a splash of pasta water.
- Drizzle in the chili oil and mix until everything is well coated.
- Finish with grated Parmesan and chopped basil or parsley.
- Taste and add extra salt, pepper, or more chili flakes if you like.
Lighter, Healthier Touches
I like using whole wheat or legume pasta for more fiber. Use less oil in the chili oil and boost herbs and lemon for zip. Swap Parmesan for a smaller sprinkle of nutritional yeast if you want a dairy-free option.
Perfect Pairings
This pasta pairs well with a crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables. For a brunch or late breakfast twist, serve it with something creamy like baked feta eggs with tomatoes and spinach on the side to keep flavors bright and rich.
Common Stumbles to Avoid
Do not rush the onions; they need time to become sweet. Do not burn the garlic in the oil for the chili oil or it will taste bitter. Save pasta water to loosen the sauce if it seems dry.
Storing Your Creation
Cool the pasta and place it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently with a little water or extra oil so it does not dry out.
A Final Warm Word
I find this dish brings a comforting mix of sweet and heat that hits every time. Make it your own and enjoy the moments it helps you share.
Answering Your Questions
Can I make Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil ahead of time?
Yes. You can caramelize the onions and keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make the chili oil ahead and store it in a jar. Just warm and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready.
How spicy is Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil, and can I reduce the heat?
The spice depends on the red chili flakes. Use half the amount for a mild dish or add all for a big kick. You can also leave extra chili flakes on the side so guests can choose.
Can I add protein to Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil?
Yes. Pan-fried chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work well. Cook your protein separately and fold it in at the end so the pasta stays saucy and well mixed.
Print
Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chili Oil: A Sweet and Spicy Flavor Bomb
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple, bold pasta dish featuring sweet caramelized onions and a spicy chili oil for a flavor-packed meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (any shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for onions)
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for chili oil)
- 1 tablespoon red chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 small garlic clove, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Grated Parmesan cheese, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Extra chili flakes, optional
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet and add the thinly sliced onion.
- Cook onions low and slow until deep golden and sweet.
- Add 3 cloves minced garlic near the end and season with salt and pepper.
- Warm 3 tablespoons olive oil in a small pan for the chili oil.
- Add 1 tablespoon red chili flakes, 1 teaspoon paprika, and sliced small garlic clove to the oil and cook gently.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon soy sauce and take the chili oil off the heat to infuse.
- Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente and reserve some pasta water.
- Toss the drained pasta with the caramelized onions and a splash of pasta water.
- Drizzle in the chili oil and mix until well coated.
- Finish with grated Parmesan and chopped basil or parsley.
- Taste and add extra salt, pepper, or more chili flakes if desired.
Notes
For a lighter version, use whole wheat or legume pasta. Keep pasta water handy to loosen the sauce if it gets dry.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauteing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: pasta, caramelized onions, chili oil, easy recipe, vegetarian meal