If you’re craving a pasta dish that packs both a creamy texture and a spicy kick, look no further than this Creamy Chili Oil Pasta. With its rich, velvety sauce combined with the bold heat of chili oil, this recipe is perfect for those who love their pasta with a bit of a kick.
Ingredients:
8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, etc.)
2 tablespoons chili oil (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Crushed red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Add Chili Oil:
Stir in the chili oil and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
Create the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the creamy chili oil sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this deliciously creamy and spicy pasta dish!
Serving Tips:
Garnish: Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and optional crushed red pepper flakes for added color and extra heat.
Pairing: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to complement the creamy, spicy flavors of the pasta.
Temperature: This pasta is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking, to fully appreciate the creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
Presentation: For a restaurant-style presentation, twirl the pasta onto plates with a fork and add a light drizzle of extra chili oil on top for a glossy finish.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. You may need to add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: While it’s best to enjoy this pasta fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1-2 months. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Avoid Overcooking: If you know you’ll have leftovers, consider slightly undercooking the pasta, as it will continue to cook and absorb the sauce when reheated. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming too mushy.
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FAQs:
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options. Just be sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions for best results.
How can I adjust the spiciness of this pasta?
To adjust the spiciness, you can modify the amount of chili oil used in the recipe. For a milder dish, start with less chili oil and add more to taste. You can also omit the red pepper flakes if you prefer less heat.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe can be made vegetarian by ensuring that the chili oil you use is vegetarian-friendly. You can also replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegetarian or dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.
Can I prepare this pasta in advance?
While this pasta is best enjoyed freshly made, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore the creamy texture, and reheat gently over low heat.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Chili Oil Pasta is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an easy and quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish will surely impress with its balance of creaminess and spice. Try it out and indulge in a pasta experience that’s both comforting and exciting!
📖 Recipe:
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Creamy Chili Oil Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Chili Oil Pasta is a delightful blend of rich, creamy sauce and bold chili oil. Perfect for pasta lovers who enjoy a spicy kick, this dish combines the heat of chili oil with the smoothness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, etc.)
2 tablespoons chili oil (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Crushed red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Chili Oil: Stir in the chili oil and cook for another minute.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the creamy chili oil sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Adjust the amount of chili oil to control the spiciness level.
For a vegetarian option, ensure the chili oil and Parmesan cheese are vegetarian-friendly.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
