French Onion Pasta
A delightful dish that combines the comforting essence of French onion soup with hearty pasta, featuring caramelized onions and a creamy sauce.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot for Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti) Choose a sturdy type to hold the sauce.
Onions
- 3 large Yellow Onions Best for caramelizing.
Butter and Oil
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter For caramelization.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Enhances flavor.
Garlic
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor.
Broth and Cream
- 1 cup Vegetable Broth High-quality for best results.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Adds richness.
Cheese and Herbs
- 1 cup Grated Gruyère Cheese Melts beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Enhances flavor.
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and Pepper To taste.
- Chopped Parsley For garnish.
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Onions: Peel and slice the onions thinly.
- 2. Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden.
- 3. Add Garlic: Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- 4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- 5. Incorporate Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, simmer for about 5 minutes.
- 6. Add Cheese and Thyme: Stir in the grated Gruyère cheese until melted, then add thyme, salt, and pepper.
- 7. Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- 8. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- 9. Serve: Plate the pasta, garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired.
Notes
For variations, consider adding proteins, vegetables, or different cheeses to customize the dish.