Name: Caramelized Onion Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes and Chili Crisps Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 large onions; ¼ cup chopped sundried tomatoes; Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish; ⅓ cup olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 Tbsp chili crisp or chili crunch; ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 lb linguine or buccatini, cooked al dente; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Introduction

This caramelized onion pasta is a rich and comforting dish that combines sweet, golden onions with creamy sauce and a touch of spice. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you want something a little special but easy to prepare.

A large white plate with a dark rim holds a generous serving of spaghetti. The pasta is light yellow and slightly glossy, mixed with dark brown caramelized onions scattered throughout. On top, finely grated white cheese is sprinkled evenly, along with chopped green herbs adding a fresh touch. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and a beige cloth with a patterned ring is in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 large onions
⅓ cup olive oil
¼ cup chopped sundried tomatoes
1 Tbsp chili crisp or chili crunch
1 cup heavy cream
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 lb linguine or buccatini, cooked al dente
Fresh chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the onions in half and remove the peel, then thinly slice all the onions lengthwise. Transfer them to a large pot or wide sauté pan. Pour in the olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set the pan over medium heat until the onions start to sizzle. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring every 5-7 minutes, for about 45 minutes or until the onions are deeply caramelized and reduced to about 1 ½ cups.
Step 3: Increase the heat to medium. Add the chopped sundried tomatoes, chili crisp, and heavy cream to the pan. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the parmesan cheese and reduce heat back to medium-low.
Step 4: Cook the cream sauce gently for 3-4 minutes, then add the cooked pasta and toss to combine. Let the pasta cook in the sauce for another minute, then serve with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

For a milder heat, reduce the amount of chili crisp or use a mild chili paste instead.
Add a splash of white wine when simmering the cream sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Use gluten-free pasta if you prefer to make this dish gluten-free.
Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added with the onions for an herbal note.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A white speckled plate holds a single layer of creamy pasta mixed with caramelized onions, creating a light brown sauce that covers the noodles. The pasta is topped with fresh green parsley pieces scattered across and lightly sprinkled with grated white cheese and black pepper. The edges of the plate have some natural spots and the entire setup sits on a white marbled surface, with part of a white cup visible in the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make caramelized onions ahead of time?

Yes, caramelized onions can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This makes the cooking process quicker when you’re ready to prepare the pasta.

What is the difference between chili crisp and chili crunch?

Both chili crisp and chili crunch are spicy chili-infused oils with crunchy bits, but chili crisp usually has a more balanced flavor with garlic and sometimes fermented notes, while chili crunch is often spicier and more straightforward in heat. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand.