If you love the rich, savory taste of French onion soup, you’ll adore this French Onion Pasta recipe. This dish combines deeply caramelized onions, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta for a comforting and indulgent meal. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces of pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite type)
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup dry white wine (or vegetable broth as a substitute)
- 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and Parmesan)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Lower the heat if needed to prevent burning.
3. Deglaze the Pan
Pour the white wine (or broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.
4. Make the Sauce
Stir in the remaining broth and heavy cream. Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the onion sauce. Use the reserved pasta water as needed to reach the desired consistency.
6. Melt the Cheese
Gradually sprinkle in the shredded Gruyère cheese, stirring continuously until melted and fully incorporated.
7. Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta warm and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Incredible Depth of Flavor
The slow-cooked caramelized onions create a rich, umami-packed base that makes this dish irresistible.
Simple Yet Luxurious
This pasta transforms pantry staples into a gourmet, restaurant-quality meal.
Highly Customizable
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
- Add protein like grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra heartiness.
- Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze for a tangy contrast.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dish for guests, French Onion Pasta is a fantastic choice. The balance of caramelized onions, creamy cheese, and al dente pasta makes it a must-try recipe.
Try this comforting and flavorful pasta today, and let it become a staple in your meal rotation!