Name: One Pot French Onion Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 large onions (thinly sliced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme); 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended); 12 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli); 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pot: Minimal cleanup, just cook everything in one pot!
Flavor-packed: Sweet, caramelized onions combined with savory broth and melted cheese create a rich, comforting flavor.
Comfort Food: The creamy texture of the pasta and gooey cheese will make you feel cozy and satisfied.
Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions (thinly sliced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
4 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
12 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Caramelize the Onions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes until the onions are soft and golden brown. The caramelization process should be slow to bring out the natural sweetness in the onions. Season with a pinch of salt.

2. Add Garlic and Thyme

Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and fresh thyme. Cook for another minute, stirring, until fragrant.

3. Add Broth and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the pasta and stir to combine. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or water if needed to keep the pasta from sticking.

4. Stir in Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses until they melt into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

5. Serve

Serve the One Pot French Onion Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional grated cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: Add cooked chicken, beef for a heartier dish.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the beef broth and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the onions for a little heat.

Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth to bring back the creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any type of pasta will work, but short shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it on the stove. You may need to add a little extra broth or water to loosen the sauce when reheating.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

One Pot French Onion Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. With the sweet, caramelized onions, savory broth, and creamy cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. And the best part? You only need one pot, so cleanup is a breeze! This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight or a special dinner when you want something easy yet delicious. Enjoy!