Go Back
French Onion Pasta

French Onion Pasta: A Rich and Flavorful Comfort Food

This recipe delivers a deeply flavorful French onion pasta dish with caramelized onions, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It's an easy weeknight meal that's sure to impress.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 Large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons Butter
  • 2 teaspoons Olive oil
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 0.25 cup Dry white wine optional, can substitute with chicken broth
  • 4 cups Beef broth
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • 0.5 teaspoon Dried thyme
  • 0.25 teaspoon Sugar
  • 1 pound Pasta penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape
  • 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated, plus extra for serving
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Colander
  • Large saucepan

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Caramelize the onions: Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes, or until deeply caramelized and golden brown. Reduce heat if browning too quickly.
  2. Deglaze (optional): If using white wine, add it to the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
  3. Simmer the broth: Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, thyme, and sugar. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 15 minutes.
  4. Cook the pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the onion sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water (if needed to thin). Stir well to coat.
  6. Garnish and serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use a combination of beef and chicken broth. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.