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One-Pot Creamy French Onion Pasta

A close-up of a white bowl filled with penne french onion pasta, topped with caramelized onions, melted cheese, and fresh parsley.

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Make this rich, comforting French Onion Pasta in one pot. You get the deep flavor of caramelized onions and savory broth combined with tender pasta and melted Gruyère cheese for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or extra broth
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 pound short pasta, such as penne or rotini
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized and soft. Do not rush this step; deep caramelization builds the flavor base.
  2. Add the minced garlic and dried thyme to the pot. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the white wine (or extra broth) and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Let the liquid reduce by half, about 2 minutes.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the uncooked pasta. Stir well to submerge the pasta.
  5. Cover the pot and cook according to the pasta package directions, usually 10 to 12 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, Gruyère cheese, and Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve immediately in bowls. Top each serving with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For the deepest onion flavor, ensure the onions are dark brown, resembling the color of French onion soup.
  • If you do not have beef broth, use chicken broth, but add 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
  • This recipe works well as a vegetarian meal if you substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth.

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