French Onion Pasta
Transform the beloved flavors of French onion soup into a delectable pasta dish that’s sure to impress. French Onion Pasta combines the deep caramelized taste of onions with creamy cheese and hearty pasta, creating a comforting meal perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings. Here’s how to make this unique recipe from scratch.
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Ingredients:
12 ounces of pasta (choose fettuccine, penne, or your favorite type)
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/3 cup dry white wine (optional, or substitute with vegetable broth)
1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or a blend of Gruyère and Parmesan)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Caramelize the Onions: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally, cooking for 25-30 minutes, until the onions turn golden brown and caramelized. Lower the heat if needed to avoid burning.
Deglaze the Skillet: Pour the white wine or a bit of broth into the skillet, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Create the Sauce: Stir in the remaining broth and heavy cream. Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, using the reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the consistency.
Incorporate Cheese: Gradually sprinkle in the shredded Gruyère cheese, stirring until melted and well-combined with the sauce.
Plate and Garnish: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
Use yellow or sweet onions for the best caramelization results.
Stir onions consistently to prevent uneven cooking or burning.
If you prefer a lighter dish, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
Why This Recipe Shines:
Depth of Flavor: The slow-cooked onions deliver a rich, sweet-savory base that elevates the dish.
Simple Yet Elegant: This recipe turns pantry staples into a restaurant-quality meal.
Customizable: Adjust the cheese, pasta type, or add protein like grilled chicken for variety.
French Onion Pasta is a versatile and delightful recipe that brings the warm, comforting flavors of caramelized onions to your plate. Try it today and make it a staple in your meal rotation!
For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, this recipe also serves as a wonderful base for creativity. You can add a splash of balsamic glaze for a tangy finish, toss in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch, or even sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top for a bit of crunch. Each variation brings its own twist while preserving the heartwarming essence of French Onion Pasta.