French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe

If you love the deep, savory flavors of classic French onion soup, then this French onion soup pasta recipe is going to be your new favorite comfort dish. It combines the rich caramelized onions, savory broth, and melty cheese of the beloved soup with the hearty satisfaction of pasta. The result? A cozy, flavorful, and irresistibly cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta is the ultimate mash-up of two comfort food classics. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with sweet, slow-cooked onions and gooey cheese, all wrapped around your favorite pasta shape. It comes together in one pot, making it easy to cook and even easier to clean up. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

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

• Yellow onions (thinly sliced)
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh thyme (or dried thyme)
• Bay leaf (optional)
• Salt and black pepper
• Dry white wine (or water or broth as a substitute)
• Beef broth (or vegetable broth)
• Pasta (short-cut like rigatoni, penne, or fusilli)
• Gruyère cheese (shredded)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Heavy cream or sour cream (optional for extra richness)

directions

1. In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
2. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for 3040 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized. Add garlic and thyme in the last few minutes.
3. Pour in the wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up the brown bits. Let it reduce slightly.
4. Add broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the pasta directly into the pan.
5. Cook the pasta, stirring often, until al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed (add more broth or water if needed).
6. Once pasta is cooked, stir in Gruyère and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Add a splash of cream or sour cream for extra richness if desired.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with more cheese or fresh thyme and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 4050 minutes
Total time: 5060 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

• Mushroom twist: Add sautéed mushrooms for even more umami flavor.
• Vegetarian version: Use vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan or use a vegetarian cheese.
• Baked finish: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil for 23 minutes until bubbly and golden.
• Add protein: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or top with grilled sausage.
• Low-cream version: Skip the cream and let the melted cheese create the sauce on its own.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Avoid freezing, as the cheese and onions may change texture.

FAQs

What kind of onions should I use?

Yellow onions are ideal for their natural sweetness and caramelization, but white or sweet onions also work well.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth and vegetarian cheeses to make it meat-free.

What cheese is best for this recipe?

Gruyère is traditional for French onion flavor, but you can also use Swiss, mozzarella, or a blend of melty cheeses.

Do I need to use wine?

No, wine adds depth but can be replaced with extra broth or water and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for brightness.

Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

It’s best to cook the pasta in the broth for maximum flavor, but you can stir in cooked pasta at the end if needed.

How long do the onions take to caramelize?

About 3040 minutes over low heat. Don’t rush this step—it’s key to the flavor!

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of broth and top with fresh cheese before serving.

What pasta shapes work best?

Short-cut pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or shells work great—they hold onto the cheesy onion sauce beautifully.

Is this recipe creamy?

It’s naturally creamy from the cheese and starchy broth, but you can add a little cream or sour cream for an even silkier texture.

What can I serve with this dish?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make perfect side dishes for this comforting pasta.

Conclusion

French onion soup pasta is comfort food with a gourmet twist—rich, creamy, and full of slow-cooked flavor. It’s the perfect cozy dinner for cold nights or when you’re craving something indulgent but easy. With simple ingredients and big flavor, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

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