Creamy French Onion Pasta
A comforting and delicious pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or penne) Swap gluten-free pasta if needed
- 2 large onions Yellow or sweet for balance of flavor
- 3 tablespoons butter For richness
- 2 cloves garlic Minced, because garlic makes everything better
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth Homemade if available, or store-bought for convenience
- 1 cup heavy cream Or swap with half-and-half for a lighter option
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme Use fresh thyme if available
- Salt and pepper To taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese For garnish; use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
Caramelizing the Onions
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and fragrant.
Sautéing the Garlic
- Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Adding Broth
- Pour in the beef or vegetable broth, scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the pan. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
Mixing in the Cream
- Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh thyme.
Notes
For a twist, add cooked chicken, beef, or sautéed mushrooms. For extra nutrition, toss in baby spinach or kale.