French Onion Pasta
Craving a comforting dish that’s both hearty and flavorful? French onion pasta combines the classic taste of French onion soup with tender pasta, creating a savory meal that’s sure to please. The creamy sauce, rich with caramelized onions and topped with melted cheese, is a delightful twist that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying!
Ingredients
– 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or egg noodles)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 22g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, and 12g of protein.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Pour in the beef broth and let simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Stir in the cooked pasta, mixing well to coat.
8. Add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese over the top.
10. Broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the Gruyère cheese with Swiss or mozzarella for a milder flavor. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Additionally, gluten-free pasta can be used for a gluten-free version.
Serving and Pairings
French onion pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. A glass of red wine, like Merlot, complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess. This dish can also be frozen, though the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid burning the onions; cook them slowly for the best flavor.
– Don’t skip the broth; it adds essential depth to the dish.
– Ensure the pasta is al dente to maintain texture.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
– Be cautious with salt; the broth and cheese can be salty.
Helpful Tips
– Stir the pasta frequently while simmering to prevent sticking.
– For added flavor, sprinkle some thyme or rosemary during cooking.
– Make it a one-pot meal by cooking the pasta directly in the broth.
– Adjust cream quantity for desired richness.
FAQs
Can I make French onion pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramelized onions and sauce in advance. Just combine with cooked pasta before serving and reheat gently.
What type of cheese works best?
Gruyère is traditional, but you can also use Swiss, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni, but cooking times may vary.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, by using vegetable broth and ensuring the cheese is vegetarian-friendly, you can easily adapt this recipe.
How can I add protein to this dish?
You can add cooked chicken, beef, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian protein boost.
Conclusion
French onion pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of French onion soup and pasta. Perfect for cozy dinners, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with your loved ones!
French Onion Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta fettuccine or egg noodles
- 2 large onions thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, mixing well to coat.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese over the top.
- Broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
