Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pot French Onion Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, offering the rich, umami-packed flavor of French onion soup in a convenient pasta form. The caramelized onions create a sweet and savory base, while the broth and cheese add depth and creaminess to the dish. The best part is that it’s all made in one pot, meaning less mess and more flavor. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting yet elegant.

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (any type, but fettuccine or spaghetti works best)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth (or beef broth for a non-vegan option)
1 cup dry white wine (optional, or substitute with more broth)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
½ cup heavy cream (or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version)
1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

Caramelize the onions: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, or until the onions are soft, golden brown, and caramelized. This step is crucial for developing the deep, rich flavor.
Add the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Deglaze the pot: Pour in the white wine (if using) and scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot. Let the wine cook off for 2-3 minutes. If not using wine, skip this step and proceed to adding the broth.
Add the broth and seasoning: Pour in the vegetable broth, thyme, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the pot. Stir to make sure the pasta is submerged in the broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the cream and cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream (or plant-based cream) and the Gruyère cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and chopped fresh parsley.
Serve and enjoy: Serve the One Pot French Onion Pasta hot and enjoy the rich, savory flavors!

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes.
Cook time: 30-35 minutes.
Total time: 40-45 minutes.

Variations

Vegan version: Use a plant-based cream, such as coconut cream or cashew cream, and substitute the cheeses with vegan alternatives, such as vegan Gruyère or mozzarella.
Add protein: For an added protein boost, top the pasta with grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or crispy tofu.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the onions while caramelizing them for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover One Pot French Onion Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Short pasta shapes such as penne or fusilli will work well, but long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine is ideal for soaking up the broth.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cream and cheese. Store the pasta in the refrigerator, then reheat and stir in the cream and cheese before serving.

Is there a substitute for white wine in this recipe?

Yes, you can use additional vegetable broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for acidity if you prefer not to use wine.

Can I use regular onions instead of yellow onions?

Yellow onions are preferred for their natural sweetness, but you can use white or red onions in a pinch. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Can I use shredded cheese instead of grated cheese?

Shredded cheese works just as well as grated cheese. Just make sure to stir it in thoroughly until melted.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

It’s not ideal to freeze this dish because the pasta may become mushy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you want a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the onions or while adjusting the seasoning at the end.

Is this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free unless you use gluten-free pasta. Make sure to use a gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make the recipe dairy-free, use a plant-based cream (such as coconut or cashew cream) and vegan cheese alternatives, like nutritional yeast or a vegan shredded cheese.

How do I know when the pasta is done?

The pasta is done when it’s al dente (firm to the bite) and the sauce has thickened. If the pasta is cooked but the sauce is too thin, continue cooking for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.

Conclusion

One Pot French Onion Pasta brings together the delicious flavors of French onion soup with the convenience and comfort of pasta. With its rich, savory broth, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite. The best part? It’s all made in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, this pasta will deliver bold flavor and satisfy your cravings for something comforting and delicious.