French onion soup, with its deeply caramelized onions and rich broth, is a culinary masterpiece. But what if you could capture all that deliciousness in a comforting pasta dish? This recipe delivers just that – a French Onion Soup Pasta that's surprisingly easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It's the perfect weeknight meal for those craving a sophisticated yet simple dish.
What Makes This French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe Special?
This recipe goes beyond simply adding some broth to pasta. We're building layers of flavor, mimicking the classic soup's complexity. We'll caramelize the onions properly to unlock their sweetness, create a flavorful broth from scratch (or use a high-quality store-bought option), and finish with a touch of Gruyère cheese for that authentic French onion soup experience.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- For the Caramelized Onions:
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- For the Pasta:
- 1 pound pasta (such as linguine, fettuccine, or tagliatelle)
- 4 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought, low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Caramelize the Onions: This is the crucial first step. Melt butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for at least 30-40 minutes, or until deeply caramelized and golden brown. Patience is key here; the longer you cook them, the sweeter and richer they'll become.
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Cook the Pasta: While the onions are caramelizing, cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
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Create the Sauce: To the skillet with the caramelized onions, add the beef broth and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the thyme and rosemary.
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Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the onion broth. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the Gruyère cheese. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve: Divide the pasta among bowls. Top with the remaining Gruyère cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Gruyère is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Swiss, Fontina, or even a blend of cheeses. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well and has a slightly nutty or savory flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
Yes! Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the heavy cream. For a vegan version, use a plant-based cream alternative. You can also experiment with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can caramelize the onions a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the rest of the dish just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What kind of pasta works best?
Long pasta shapes like linguine, fettuccine, or tagliatelle work best for this recipe as they hold the sauce well.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to your French Onion Soup Pasta for extra flavor and nutrients.
This French Onion Soup Pasta recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Enjoy!
