French Onion Pasta Recipe
A cozy, creamy pasta dish that captures the rich, comforting flavors of French onion soup. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy, flavorful, and family-friendly.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 yellow onions thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth or vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 12 oz dried orecchiette or other short-cut pasta
- 1 –2 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs and toasted breadcrumbs for serving optional
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until golden-brown and caramelized. If onions begin to stick, add a splash of water or broth.
- Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5 minutes, until mushrooms are tender.
- Create the Sauce: Sprinkle thyme and flour over the onion-mushroom mixture. Stir well, then gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth and beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Pasta in the Sauce: Add the water and dried pasta, stirring to combine. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. If sauce thickens too much before pasta is tender, add a bit more water or broth.
- Finish with Acidity and Seasoning: Once pasta is al dente, stir in apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and toasted breadcrumbs if desired.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth exclusively.
- Vegan Option: Replace olive oil with vegan butter and ensure pasta is vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free flour and pasta.