One Pot French Onion Pasta: A Cozy Comfort Dish

Nothing quite matches the comforting embrace of a hearty pasta dish, especially when it’s infused with the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup. This One Pot French Onion Pasta is a delightful twist on the classic soup, offering the deep caramelized sweetness of onions paired with the gooey delight of melted cheese, all combined in a single pot for ease and comfort. Here’s how to bring this deliciously comforting dish to your table.

Ingredients

For the Onions:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 large yellow onions, sliced into rings 1/8-inch thick (Mandoline recommended)
• 1/8 tsp EACH salt and pepper

For the Sauce:

• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Pinch-1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce
• 4 cups water (may substitute beef broth and omit bouillon)
• 1 12 oz. can evaporated milk
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons beef bouillon (granulated, base, or cubes; may omit if using beef broth)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced (or 1 tsp dried)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced (or ¾ tsp dried)
• 1/2 tsp EACH dried oregano, paprika, pepper

Add Last:

• 1 pound short cut pasta (such as orecchiette)
• 5 oz. freshly shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/4 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Caramelize Onions:

In a large (7 quart) Dutch oven, melt butter in olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-35 minutes until the onions are caramelized and dark golden brown. Adjust the heat and add more butter or oil if the onions start to scorch.

2. Sauté Garlic:

Add the garlic and red pepper flakes to the caramelized onions and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce to blend the flavors.

3. Add Liquids and Seasonings:

Pour in half of the water and the evaporated milk. Mix the cornstarch with the remaining evaporated milk and add it to the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, stirring in the beef bouillon and the rest of the herbs and seasonings.

4. Boil Pasta:

Once boiling, add the pasta and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 11-14 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking. Ensure the pasta is submerged and has enough liquid to form a sauce once cooked.

5. Add Cheeses:

Remove the pot from the heat and add the Gruyere cheese gradually until melted, followed by the Parmesan. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. For a saucier pasta, you might add more water or milk. Garnish with fresh parsley if using.

This One Pot French Onion Pasta not only simplifies cooking and cleanup, it also brings a gourmet touch to your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s a testament to how classic flavors can be transformed into new, delightful dishes that are sure to comfort and satisfy. Enjoy this meal with a side of crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce!