Description
This French Onion Pasta transforms the rich, caramelized flavors of classic French onion soup into a creamy, cheesy pasta dish. Tender noodles are coated in a luscious onion sauce and finished with melted, golden cheese for the ultimate cozy comfort meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, shells, or your favorite)
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1/2 cup white wine (or extra broth)
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable or beef broth
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- In an oven-safe skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter and olive oil.
- Add onions and a pinch of salt. Cook 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until deeply caramelized.
- Increase heat to medium. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 30 seconds.
- Pour in wine and scrape up browned bits from the pan.
- Add broth, Worcestershire, soy sauce, bay leaf, and thyme. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Whisk evaporated milk with cornstarch and stir into the sauce.
- Add pasta and toss to coat, loosening with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Top with shredded cheese and broil until bubbly and golden.
- Remove bay leaf, garnish with herbs, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Caramelize onions slowly to develop deep flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Skip broiling and stir cheese in for a creamy finish if preferred.
- Substitute broth for wine with a splash of vinegar for acidity.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop & Broil
- Cuisine: French-Inspired