One Pot French Onion Pasta

This One Pot French Onion Pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that brings the rich, savory taste of French onion soup into a creamy, satisfying pasta dish. With caramelized onions, a hint of thyme, and a cheesy topping, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or an indulgent weekend meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Cooked in just one pot, this recipe minimizes cleanup and makes dinner prep a breeze.
• Rich Flavor: The caramelized onions and cheesy goodness deliver deep, satisfying flavors.
• Comfort Food: Perfect for chilly evenings when you’re craving something warm and hearty.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it your own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta of your choice (spaghetti or fettuccine work well)
• Yellow onions
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Thyme
• Beef or vegetable broth
• Heavy cream
• Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and Parmesan)
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook until deeply caramelized, about 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add Garlic and Thyme: Stir in minced garlic and fresh thyme, cooking until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in a splash of broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
4. Cook the Pasta: Add the remaining broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
5. Add Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream and shredded Gruyère cheese. Stir until the sauce is creamy and the cheese is melted.
6. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately with extra cheese on top, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp for a heartier dish.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while caramelizing the onions.
• Different Cheeses: Substitute Gruyère with mozzarella, Swiss, or cheddar for a unique flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape that holds sauce well will work, such as penne or rigatoni.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

Can I caramelize the onions faster?

Caramelizing onions takes time for the best flavor, but you can add a pinch of sugar to speed up the process slightly.

What can I use instead of Gruyère cheese?

You can substitute it with Swiss cheese, mozzarella, or even a sharp white cheddar.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the caramelized onions in advance and store them in the fridge.

Can I freeze leftovers?

This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the cream and cheese, which may separate when reheated.

What broth works best for this recipe?

Beef broth adds a deeper flavor, but vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version.

Can I add wine to the recipe?

Yes, a splash of white wine while deglazing the pot adds extra depth to the flavor.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir frequently while the pasta cooks to prevent clumping.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.

Conclusion

One Pot French Onion Pasta combines the best of French onion soup and creamy pasta into one delectable dish. It’s easy to make, full of bold flavors, and adaptable to your preferences. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of comforting, cheesy goodness!

Print