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French Onion Pasta

Creamy and savory French Onion Pasta with caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a rich sauce perfect for weeknight dinners or comfort meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Dinner, Pasta
Cuisine: Comfort Food, French-inspired
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz pasta fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 large onions thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp sugar optional, for quicker caramelization
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine optional
  • 1 1/2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and stir to coat.
  3. Cook onions slowly until golden brown and caramelized, about 25–30 minutes. Add sugar halfway through if desired.
  4. Add garlic and thyme; cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Deglaze with white wine if using, scraping up brown bits. Let reduce slightly.
  6. Pour in broth and simmer 5–7 minutes.
  7. Stir in heavy cream and half of the Gruyère cheese until melted.
  8. Add cooked pasta, toss to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to thin sauce if needed.
  9. Sprinkle remaining Gruyère and Parmesan cheese; stir gently to combine.
  10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  11. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and extra cheese if desired.

Notes

Optional: top with crispy fried onions for added texture. Can be made ahead by caramelizing onions in advance.