One Pot French Onion Pasta

Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of this One Pot French Onion Pasta, a comforting dish that combines the caramelized goodness of French onion soup with the creamy satisfaction of pasta.

This recipe is made entirely in one pot, making it a breeze to prepare and clean up. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, this dish will become a favorite for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meals.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for cheese

Ingredients Overview

• Onions: Caramelized to perfection, they are the heart of the dish.
• Pasta: Use a hearty pasta like penne or rigatoni to hold the sauce.
• Beef or Vegetable Broth: Enhances the French onion flavor.
• Cheese: Gruyère or Swiss cheese for the classic French onion flavor, and Parmesan for depth.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme adds aromatic notes.

Ingredients

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 8 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
• 3 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or additional cheese

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions:
   • Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 20–25 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Herbs:
   • Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Incorporate Pasta and Broth:
   • Add the pasta, broth, and water to the pot. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged.
4. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced, about 12–15 minutes.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
   • Stir in the heavy cream and Gruyère cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Mix in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
   • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or additional cheese if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Cheese Options: If you can’t find Gruyère, Swiss cheese or even mozzarella works well.
• Pasta Shape: Short pasta shapes like fusilli or shells work great for absorbing the flavors.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, beef, or mushrooms during step 4.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Pair with a glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables for extra nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, whole milk can be substituted, but the sauce will be less rich.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based toppings.

Can I reheat leftovers?
Yes, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pot French Onion Pasta is a hearty dish that can stand alone or be paired with light sides like a crisp cucumber salad or roasted asparagus. For an indulgent experience, top with extra cheese and broil for a golden crust before serving.