Can I use regular oil instead of chilli oil?

Absolutely, If you don't have chilli oil, just mix 1 tbsp olive oil with 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes. Let it sit for 10 minutes to infuse - it won't be exactly the same, but still gives that lovely kick. I've even used a drizzle of honey with the pepper flakes for a sweet-spicy twist when I was out of chilli oil.

Why do my onions keep burning instead of caramelizing?

Been there, Turn that heat down - medium-low is your friend. And don't skimp on the oil. Stir every few minutes, scraping up any browned bits (those are flavor gold). If they're cooking too fast, add a splash of water to slow things down. Proper caramelization takes patience - about 20 minutes for perfect golden sweetness.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

You bet, The caramelized onions actually taste better the next day. Cook them ahead and store separately from the pasta. When ready to eat, just warm the onions, cook fresh pasta (2 minutes less than package says), and combine with chilli oil. The texture stays perfect this way.

What protein would work well in this dish?

My favorite add-ins are crispy pancetta or bacon bits (about 1/4 cup). For vegetarian options, try chickpeas or white beans - they soak up all that spicy oil beautifully. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great too - just toss it in when combining everything.

Best 20-Minute Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil -

Name: Best 20-Minute Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400g pasta; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp chilli oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp butter; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Best 20-Minute Caramelized Onion Pasta with Chilli Oil

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A simple yet flavorful pasta dish featuring caramelized onions and spicy chilli oil.

Author: RecipeZest
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

400g pasta
2 large onions, thinly sliced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp chilli oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions, sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are caramelized (about 20 minutes).
Add minced garlic and butter to the pan. Cook for 1 minute.
Toss cooked pasta with caramelized onions and chilli oil.
Garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use a non-stick pan for easier caramelization.
Adjust chilli oil to taste for more or less heat.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Find it online: https://recipeszest.com/caramelized-onion-pasta-with-chilli-oil-recipe/