This One-Pot Creamy French Onion Pasta brings all the comforting flavors of classic French onion soup into a creamy, cheesy pasta dish. With caramelized onions, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese, it’s the perfect cozy meal for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s made in just one pot, so cleanup is a breeze!
Ingredients:
For the Onions:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large yellow onions (sliced into thin rings)
- ⅛ teaspoon salt and pepper
For the Sauce:
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 5 ½ cups water or beef broth
- 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
- ½ tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons beef bouillon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound short cut pasta (e.g., orecchiette, penne, or rotini)
- 5 oz shredded Gruyere cheese
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-35 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. This step develops the deep, rich flavor of the dish, so be patient!
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the onions, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, allowing the mixture to simmer for a minute.
Next, add the water (or beef broth), evaporated milk, cornstarch, beef bouillon, parsley, thyme, oregano, paprika, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Once the liquid is simmering, add the pasta directly into the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve warm. This creamy French onion pasta is perfect on its own or paired with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: Serve this dish hot and garnish with extra parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Helpful Notes:
- Broth Options: For a richer, more robust flavor, use beef broth instead of water. If you prefer a vegetarian version, vegetable broth works as well.
- Pasta Choices: Short-cut pasta like orecchiette, penne, or rotini work best because they hold the sauce well. Avoid using long pasta like spaghetti.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Ina Garten: “Always cook onions low and slow for the best caramelization. This brings out their natural sweetness and creates that deep flavor.”
- Jamie Oliver: “Use high-quality Gruyere for a nutty, rich taste. Gruyere melts beautifully and adds a perfect balance to the creamy sauce.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the beef broth and beef bouillon with vegetable broth, and skip the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian version. - What can I substitute for Gruyere cheese?
If you can’t find Gruyere, you can use Swiss cheese, Fontina, or even mozzarella for a similar melt and flavor. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little milk or broth to loosen the sauce. - How can I add more protein to this dish?
You can add cooked chicken, sliced sausage, or even ground beef to make this meal heartier.
This Creamy French Onion Pasta is a delicious twist on a classic French onion soup, with tender pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce that’s perfect for a comforting dinner. Enjoy!