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French Onion Pasta Recipe

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4.3 from 35 reviews

This French Onion Pasta recipe transforms the classic French onion soup flavors into a comforting, hearty pasta dish. Caramelized onions create a deep, sweet base that combines with savory Worcestershire and soy sauce, luscious evaporated milk, and a rich blend of Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses. The pasta simmers directly in the flavorful broth, creating a creamy, velvety sauce that perfectly coats each bite.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Onions and Sauce Base

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 large yellow onions, sliced into 1/8-inch thick rings (Mandoline recommended)
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Pinch to 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce

Liquids and Seasonings

  • 5 1/2 cups water (can substitute beef broth and omit bouillon)
  • 1 12 oz. can evaporated milk
  • 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons beef bouillon (granulated, base, or cubes; optional if using beef broth)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced (or 3/4 teaspoon dried)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Pasta and Cheese

  • 1 pound short cut pasta (orecchiette recommended), uncooked
  • 5 ounces freshly shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1/4 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize Onions: Melt butter and olive oil together in a large 7-quart Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onions along with 1/8 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30-35 minutes until they are dark golden brown and caramelized. Lower the heat and add extra butter or olive oil if the onions begin to scorch.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Once the onions are caramelized, add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook this mixture for 30 seconds, stirring to combine and release their aroma.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the water and half of the evaporated milk. In a separate small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with the remaining evaporated milk until smooth, then stir it into the pot. Turn the heat to high and bring everything to a boil. Stir in the beef bouillon and all the herbs and spices: minced parsley, thyme, oregano, paprika, and pepper.
  4. Cook Pasta: When the broth reaches a boil, add the uncooked pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-high to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring often to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom and to ensure even cooking. Press the pasta down so it’s submerged as much as possible. The pasta should be al dente with some remaining liquid to form the sauce. Add more water if necessary during cooking.
  5. Add Cheeses and Finish: Remove the Dutch oven from heat. Gradually stir in the shredded Gruyere cheese a handful at a time until melted and smooth. Then add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. For a saucier consistency, add extra water or milk. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Use a Mandoline for evenly sliced onions to ensure uniform caramelization.
  • Be patient while caramelizing onions; this step is key for depth of flavor.
  • If you prefer beef broth, substitute all water and omit the beef bouillon powder or cubes.
  • Stir often during pasta cooking to avoid sticking and to cook evenly.
  • Gruyere cheese provides a creamy, nutty flavor; freshly shredding is recommended for best melting.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to control heat level according to preference.
  • This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy sauce at its peak.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French-American Fusion
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/french-onion-pasta-recipe/