One Pot French Onion Pasta Recipe
This comforting One Pot French Onion Pasta combines the rich, caramelized flavors of sweet yellow onions with creamy Gruyère cheese and tender pasta. Cooked entirely in one pot, this recipe is both easy and flavorful, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Pasta and Broth
- 12 oz wide pasta (fettuccine or pappardelle)
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 medium sweet yellow onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Dairy and Seasonings
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Caramelize Onions: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes. This step builds the deep, sweet flavor base for the dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme leaves. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Pasta in Broth: Add the pasta and beef broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered. Cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add Cream Cheese: Lower the heat further and stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and smooth, creating a creamy sauce that coats the pasta and onions.
- Finish with Gruyère: Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese on top of the pasta. Cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes off the heat until the cheese melts. Serve hot for a rich, cheesy finish.
Notes
- Use wide pasta shapes like fettuccine or pappardelle to hold the sauce well.
- Be sure to caramelize the onions slowly for maximum flavor and sweetness.
- Low-sodium beef broth is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Keywords: French Onion Pasta, One Pot Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Caramelized Onions, Gruyère Cheese, Easy Dinner, Comfort Food