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Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil - Easy homemade recipe

Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil

Silky pasta tossed with sweet, golden caramelized onions and finished with aromatic homemade chilli oil for the perfect balance of comfort and heat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
  • 4 large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup pasta cooking water

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions with 1 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until deep golden brown and caramelized.
  2. Step 2: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
  3. Step 3: In a small saucepan, heat remaining olive oil over low heat. Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Step 4: Add butter to the caramelized onions and stir until melted. Pour in white wine and cook for 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
  5. Step 5: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with caramelized onions. Toss with pasta water to create a silky sauce.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and drizzle with the warm chilli oil. Add half the Parmesan cheese and toss gently.
  7. Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately topped with remaining Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Notes

Don't rush the onion caramelization - low and slow is key for maximum sweetness. The chilli oil can be made ahead and stored for up to a week.