French Onion Pasta

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Are you ready to enjoy a cozy, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of traditional French onion soup with the hearty goodness of pasta? This French Onion Pasta is just what you need! With caramelized onions, savory mushrooms, and a touch of gruyere cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at your dinner table.

Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you love French onion soup, you’ll adore this pasta version.

It brings together the beloved flavors of sweet caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms, all wrapped up in perfectly cooked pasta.

The combination of creamy cheese and savory broth makes every bite satisfying and comforting.

This dish is versatile enough to serve on a casual weeknight or as a special treat for guests.

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back for more!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 g) pasta rigatoni or any preferred shape
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) butter
• 14 ounces (400 g) onions thinly sliced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces (225 g) mushrooms thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• ½ cup (120 ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable stock
• ½ cup (50 g) gruyere cheese shredded
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

How To Make French Onion Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.

Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water—about ½ cup—this will help create a creamy sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter.

Once the butter has melted, toss in the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with salt.

Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes or until they are deeply golden and caramelized.

This process may take a bit of time, but the flavor is worth it!

Step 3: Add the Mushrooms

Once the onions are caramelized, add the thinly sliced mushrooms to the skillet.

Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.

This will add a fantastic earthiness to the dish.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and mushrooms, stirring well to coat.

This will help thicken the sauce.

After a minute, pour in the apple cider vinegar and scrape up any bits stuck to the pan.

Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the vinegar has reduced slightly.

Step 5: Add Stock and Season

Next, pour in the vegetable stock and toss in the fresh thyme.

Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Season with ground black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything to combine.

If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Finally, stir in the shredded gruyere cheese until it’s melted and creamy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your French Onion Pasta hot, garnished with extra thyme or cheese if desired.

Enjoy the comforting flavors and hearty texture of this delicious dish with your friends and family!

Expert Tips

• For an even richer flavor, consider using a mix of onion types, like yellow and sweet onions.
• Don’t rush the caramelization stage; it’s key to developing that deep, sweet onion flavor!
• If you’re looking to lighten this recipe up, swap out half of the butter for a little extra olive oil.
• Feel free to use any cheese you have on hand if you don’t have gruyere. Mozzarella or parmesan also work well.

Variations and Customizations

• Add some cooked chicken or cooked sausage for added protein and heartiness.
• Include spinach or kale for a burst of freshness and nutrition.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
• For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though they are unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock or water to ensure the pasta doesn’t dry out.

Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

FAQ

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian as it uses vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Just ensure that the cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to swap rigatoni for your favorite pasta shape, like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti.

Just keep an eye on the cooking time.

How do I prevent the onions from burning while caramelizing?

Keep the heat at medium-low and give the onions time to cook slowly.

Stir them occasionally, and if they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and then simply cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Combine everything shortly before mealtime for the best results.

Conclusion

French Onion Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s full of flavor and warmth.

It beautifully merges the classic elements of French onion soup with the heartiness of pasta, making it a meal that is sure to delight.

Whether it’s for a cozy evening at home or a gathering with loved ones, this dish is a surefire way to impress.

Don’t wait too long—give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!

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