Description
This Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil is a flavor-packed dish that’s both comforting and bold. Sweet, slow-cooked onions create a rich base, while the chilli oil adds a warming heat. It’s an easy meatless meal perfect for weeknights or sharing with friends. Every bite wraps you in silky, spiced goodness.
Ingredients
2 large yellow onions
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chilli flakes
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
250 grams spaghetti or linguine
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Thinly slice the onions. In a heavy-bottomed skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly for 30–40 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. Add minced garlic and chilli flakes. Let infuse for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
3. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook spaghetti until just al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
4. Toss the cooked pasta into the onion pan. Add splashes of pasta water to create a sauce. Drizzle in the chilli oil and stir to coat.
5. Finish with black pepper and chopped parsley. Serve warm with extra chilli oil on the side.
Notes
Take your time with the onions—rushing will sacrifice flavor. Use medium-low heat and patience.
Infuse the chilli oil gently. Burnt garlic will turn the flavor bitter.
Always reserve pasta water—it’s your secret to a smooth, emulsified sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg