Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Onion Soup Pasta combines the rich, savory flavors of classic French onion soup with the comfort and heartiness of a creamy pasta dish. Caramelized onions, beefy broth, and melty cheese coat each strand of pasta, making this recipe a cozy, indulgent twist on a beloved soup. Perfect for weeknight dinners or dinner parties when you want something both elegant and comforting.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

yellow onionsbutterolive oilgarlicfresh thyme or driedbeef brothwhite wine (optional)heavy creamparmesan cheesegruyère cheese (or Swiss)short pasta like rigatoni or fusillisalt and pepper

directions

Slice the onions thinly and set aside.

In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.

Add onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized—about 30-40 minutes.

Add minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Deglaze the pan with white wine (if using), scraping up browned bits.

Pour in beef broth and simmer for 5-10 minutes until slightly reduced.

Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

Add heavy cream to the onion mixture and stir to combine.

Toss in the cooked pasta, parmesan, and a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Top with shredded Gruyère cheese and let melt, or transfer to a baking dish and broil for a bubbly, cheesy finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCaramelizing time: 30-40 minutesCooking and assembly time: 15 minutesTotal time: 55-65 minutes

Variations

Use chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.

Add mushrooms for extra umami and texture.

Stir in spinach or kale at the end for a green boost.

Make it vegetarian by using veggie broth and omitting the cheese topping or replacing it with a plant-based alternative.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.This pasta also reheats well in the oven at 350°F covered with foil for about 15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can caramelize the onions ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Short pasta like rigatoni, penne, or fusilli works best to catch the sauce and cheese.

Can I freeze French Onion Soup Pasta?

Freezing is not ideal due to the dairy, but it can be done. Reheat gently to avoid curdling.

Is there a substitute for Gruyère?

Yes, Swiss, fontina, or even mozzarella work as melty alternatives.

Do I need to use wine?

No, but it adds depth. You can skip it or replace it with a splash of broth plus a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar.

How do I avoid overcooked pasta?

Cook just until al dente, then finish in the sauce for best texture.

Can I add meat?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked Italian sausage are great additions.

Is it very rich?

It’s definitely indulgent, but portion sizes help balance it out. A side salad works great alongside.

How do I make it more “soup-like”?

Use a bit more broth and pasta water to loosen the sauce for a soupy consistency.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly grated is best for melting, but pre-shredded works in a pinch.

Conclusion

French Onion Soup Pasta delivers all the caramelized, cheesy, and savory notes of the classic soup in a more filling pasta format. It’s a cozy, crave-worthy meal that feels special without being complicated. Perfect for when you want comfort food with a gourmet edge.