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–+ servings

Chili Oil Caramelized Onion Shrimp Pasta

This chili oil caramelized onion shrimp pasta is a bold, high-protein fusion dish that combines sweet, slow-cooked onions with spicy chili oil and creamy pasta. Juicy shrimp and a rich, velvety sauce make this a unique and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
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Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Italian
Calories: 565
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
 
 

For the Shrimp:
  • 500 g large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Caramelized Onions:
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp butter
  • 1 tsp brown sugar or honey
  • Pinch of salt
For the Creamy Chili Oil Sauce:
  • 225 g high-protein spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 tbsp chili oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or pasta water
  • 3/4 cup light cream or half-and-half
  • 60 g light cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or chives chopped (optional)

Method
 

  1. Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet over medium-low heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until soft and golden. Add brown sugar or honey and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  3. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  4. Make the Sauce: In the skillet, add chili oil and garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add caramelized onions, broth or pasta water, and cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Add the Cheeses: Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth, then add Parmesan. Season with chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
  6. Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce. Toss until well coated, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  7. Serve: Plate the pasta and top with extra chili oil, chili flakes, and fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 565kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 46gFat: 20g

Notes

  • Store pasta and shrimp together for up to 3 days
  • Reheat with a splash of water or broth to loosen sauce
  • Cook shrimp fresh if possible to avoid overcooking
  • Caramelize onions ahead of time for faster prep
  • Adjust chili oil for your preferred spice level

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