Imagine the rich, heartwarming flavors of French onion soup combined with the satisfying bite of pasta. This French Onion Pasta recipe transforms the classic soup into a comforting and cheesy one-dish meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings. The magic lies in the caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and creamy Gruyère cheese, which meld together to create a luxurious sauce for the pasta. Whether you’re a fan of French cuisine or simply crave a hearty dish, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
- For the Caramelized Onions:
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the Sauce:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup white wine (optional; substitute with extra broth if preferred)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (fusilli or campanelle recommended)
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley
- Additional shredded cheese
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
- In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Stir to coat the onions evenly.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25–30 minutes, or until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. If the pan gets too dry, add a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
- Add the minced garlic to the caramelized onions and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze it, letting the wine reduce for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the beef broth, thyme leaves, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Remove the bay leaf from the sauce and discard.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
- Stir in the shredded Gruyère cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the French Onion Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Gruyère cheese for added indulgence. Pair it with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
This French Onion Pasta is the epitome of comfort food with a touch of elegance. The caramelized onions lend a deep sweetness, while the beef broth and thyme create a savory, aromatic base. Topped with melted Gruyère, this dish is as rich in flavor as it is easy to make. Perfect for a family dinner or a special treat, this recipe will quickly earn a spot in your repertoire. Try it tonight and bring a bit of French-inspired magic to your table!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
Feel free to enjoy this versatile dish, whether for a cozy night in or a delightful dinner with loved ones!