Indulgent Caramelized Onion & Parmesan Pasta Delight
This Caramelized Onion & Parmesan Pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish with the perfect blend of sweetness and spice.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Skillet
- large pot
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
- 1 teaspoon salt for boiling water
For the Caramelized Onions
- 2 large onions sliced, yellow or white
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking onions
- 2 tablespoons butter optional, for richness
For the Chilli Oil
- ¼ cup olive oil for infusion
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 2 cloves garlic smashed, to infuse
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- 1 pinch salt
Final Touches
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated, optional
- ¼ cup parsley chopped, for garnish
- to taste none salt
- to taste none pepper
Instructions
How to Make Caramelized Onion & Parmesan Pasta
- Prepare the Chilli Oil: Warm ¼ cup olive oil in a saucepan over low heat and add 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 2 smashed garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Infuse for 5-7 minutes until fragrant, then remove and discard the garlic.
- Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-low heat. Add 2 large sliced onions and season with a sprinkle of sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden and jammy. Stir in 2 tablespoons butter during the last 5 minutes for richness.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add 12 ounces pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water to help create the sauce.
- Combine the Ingredients: In the skillet with the caramelized onions, toss in the drained pasta, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve a silky sauce. Drizzle generously with the infused chilli oil for that spicy kick.
- Garnish and Serve: Plate the pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes
For added richness, drizzle with a touch more olive oil before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.