Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil

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Craving comfort with a bit of a kick? This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil is a beautifully simple dish that delivers deep, slow-cooked flavor with the spicy flair of infused oil. The richness of the sweet, golden onions meets the bold heat of chilli in a pasta dish that’s as comforting as it is bold.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a meatless main that still satisfies, this recipe hits all the right notes. It relies on kitchen staples, yet tastes anything but basic. One bite and you’ll be hooked on the sweet-savoury balance and silky texture that coats every strand of pasta.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, take a moment to gather the right tools to set yourself up for success:

• Heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan: Crucial for caramelizing onions evenly without burning. The even heat distribution lets you go low and slow, unlocking deep sweetness.
• Sharp chef’s knife: A must for slicing onions thinly and evenly, which is key for consistent caramelization.
• Large pot for boiling pasta: Gives the noodles room to move and cook evenly. Salting the water generously enhances flavor.
• Strainer or spider: Handy for draining the pasta without rinsing, preserving the starches that help sauces cling.
• Small saucepan (for chilli oil): Lets you gently infuse the oil with heat and aromatics without scorching.

Having these tools ready ensures smoother multitasking and better results overall. With just a few essentials, you’ll be set to make something seriously satisfying.

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Ingredients for the Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil

Each ingredient in this dish plays a specific role in building layers of flavor and texture:

• Yellow onions: These are the star of the show. When slowly cooked, they transform into golden, sweet strands that form the base of the sauce.
• Olive oil: Used for both caramelizing and making chilli oil. A good-quality oil adds richness and mouthfeel.
• Chilli flakes: They bring the heat and complexity. You can adjust the quantity to match your spice preference.
• Garlic: Infuses both the onions and chilli oil with aromatic depth.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of freshness that balances the richness of the onions and oil.
• Spaghetti or linguine: These long noodles are ideal for wrapping in the glossy sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning at every stage, from boiling the pasta to finishing the dish.

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How To Make the Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Thinly slice the yellow onions. Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-low heat with olive oil. Add the onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, until deeply golden and sweet—this takes about 30-40 minutes. Don’t rush it; the slower, the better.

Step 2: Prepare the Chilli Oil

In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low heat. Add minced garlic and chilli flakes. Let them infuse for about 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the pan with caramelized onions. Toss well, adding splashes of pasta water to loosen the sauce. Drizzle the chilli oil over, stirring to coat the noodles evenly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Season with freshly cracked pepper and a sprinkle of parsley. Serve warm, with extra chilli oil on the side for those who love it fiery.

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How to Serve and Store Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil

This pasta is best served immediately while warm and glossy, straight from the pan. The chilli oil is at its peak aroma when freshly drizzled, and the caramelized onions are melt-in-your-mouth tender. Garnish with more fresh parsley or even a grating of parmesan if desired.

For storing leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra olive oil to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it can dry out the noodles and dull the flavours.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do the onions take to caramelize?

Typically 30 to 40 minutes over medium-low heat. It’s important not to rush this process—the low and slow cooking develops the onions’ sweet flavor.

Can I make the chilli oil in advance?

Yes! Chilli oil can be made days ahead. Store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature before using.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti or linguine are perfect because they twirl beautifully and hold onto the glossy onion-chilli oil sauce.

Is there a non-spicy version?

Absolutely. Simply skip the chilli flakes or reduce the amount to tame the heat while still enjoying the rich onion base.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not ideal, as the texture of the caramelized onions and pasta can suffer. It’s best enjoyed fresh or as leftovers within a few days.

What can I serve with this pasta?

It pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a fuller meal.

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Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you’re drawn to bold, comforting pasta dishes like this Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil, here are a few more from my collection that deliver satisfying flavors:

You might also enjoy the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, which brings a hearty richness with every bite. Or, if you prefer a fiery twist, the Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta packs both heat and creaminess.

For fans of one-pot ease, the One-Pot Spicy BBQ Chicken Cheeseburger Pasta blends smokiness and spice in a single pan. And if you lean toward saucy, baked comfort, don’t miss the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe.

One more favorite? The Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta hits all the right creamy-spicy notes, ideal for weeknight indulgence.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you give this dish a try, I’d love to know how it went. Did you go heavy on the chilli? Maybe add cheese? Share your twist in the comments below. And if you want more like this, check out my Pinterest for daily recipes and inspiration: LadyPlate on Pinterest.

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