Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Onion Soup Pasta is a rich and comforting dish that combines the deep, caramelized flavors of classic French onion soup with the creamy texture of pasta. Perfect for cozy dinners, this recipe blends sweet onions, melted cheese, and tender noodles into a dish that feels both elegant and homey. It’s a one-pan wonder full of savory satisfaction.

ingredients

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

yellow onionsunsalted buttersaltolive oilgarlicclovesfresh thymebeef brothdry white wine (optional)heavy creamparmesan cheesegruyère cheese (or swiss cheese)pasta (fettuccine, rigatoni, or pasta of choice)black pepper

directions

Thinly slice the onions and set aside.

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter with a splash of olive oil over medium heat.

Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, cooking slowly for 30–40 minutes until deeply caramelized, stirring occasionally.

Add minced garlic and fresh thyme, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Deglaze the pan with white wine if using, scraping up any browned bits.

Add beef broth and bring to a simmer.

Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Add the drained pasta to the onion mixture along with the cream, parmesan, and half of the gruyère.

Toss everything together until creamy, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Top with remaining gruyère and cover until melted, or broil briefly for a bubbly, golden finish.

Season with black pepper and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCaramelizing onions: 30–40 minutesCooking pasta and finishing: 15 minutesTotal time: 55–65 minutes

Variations

Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Add mushrooms for an earthy twist.

Stir in cooked chicken or steak strips for added protein.

Swap gruyère for mozzarella or fontina for a different cheese profile.

Use gluten-free pasta as needed.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or cream to refresh the sauce.Freeze is not recommended due to the dairy content.

FAQs

Can I use pre-caramelized onions?

Yes, but fresh caramelized onions offer the best flavor and texture.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Short pasta like rigatoni or long noodles like fettuccine both work well.

Can I skip the wine?

Absolutely, just deglaze with extra broth instead.

Is gruyère necessary?

It adds the authentic French onion soup flavor, but swiss or even provolone can be substituted.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare the onions and sauce ahead, then cook pasta fresh and combine before serving.

How do I know when onions are fully caramelized?

They should be deep golden brown, very soft, and sweet in flavor.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream, and vegan cheese alternatives, along with veggie broth.

Is this a one-pot recipe?

Yes, if using an oven-safe skillet or pot, everything can be done in one dish.

Conclusion

French Onion Soup Pasta brings the comfort of a beloved soup into a satisfying pasta dish, making it ideal for cold nights or when you’re craving something rich and flavorful. With gooey cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and a creamy finish, it’s a perfect fusion meal that’s sure to impress.