Best-Ever French Onion Pasta Bake

byMy Name is Alice •

Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food quite like this French Onion Pasta Bake. Imagine the deep, caramelized richness of French onion soup infused into tender pasta, all baked under a blanket of bubbly, golden Gruyère cheese. This dish is the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and satisfying, making it an irresistible option for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

With slow-cooked onions, rich beef broth, and fragrant herbs, every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it's easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for a stress-free meal. If you're a fan of French onion soup, this pasta bake is about to become your new favorite comfort food!

Ingredients

For the Caramelized Onions:

  • 3 large onions, thinly sliced – The star ingredient, providing deep, sweet, and savory notes.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Helps caramelize the onions to perfection.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a subtle, aromatic depth.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar – Enhances caramelization and balances the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Draws out moisture and intensifies the onion flavor.

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup white wine (optional) – Deglazes the pan and adds a rich, tangy note. Substitute with extra beef broth if preferred.
  • 4 cups beef broth – Forms the base of the luscious, umami-packed sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves – Brings in earthy, aromatic flavors.
  • 1 bay leaf – Infuses the sauce with subtle herbal undertones.

For the Pasta Bake:

  • 12 ounces pasta (fusilli or campanelle recommended) – Holds onto the sauce beautifully.
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese – Melts into a creamy, nutty topping.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances the overall flavor.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

  1. In a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until they become soft and golden brown.
  3. Stir in the garlic, sugar, and salt. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

  1. Pour in the white wine (or extra beef broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
  2. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

  1. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the onions.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes to develop deep flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

  1. While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (according to package instructions).
  2. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  1. Remove the bay leaf from the sauce.
  2. Toss the cooked pasta into the onion sauce, stirring to coat.
  3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

  1. Stir in half of the shredded Gruyère cheese until melted and creamy.
  2. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.

Step 7: Bake

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

  1. Let the dish cool slightly before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Flavorful – The caramelized onions and beef broth create a deep, savory taste.
  • Cheesy Goodness – Gruyère cheese melts beautifully, adding a creamy and nutty finish.
  • Comfort Food Classic – Combines the best elements of French onion soup and a hearty pasta bake.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare the onions and sauce ahead for a quick, easy dinner.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Perfect Caramelization – Cook the onions low and slow to achieve the best depth of flavor.
  • Customize the Cheese – Swap Gruyère for Swiss, Fontina, or even mozzarella for a different cheesy experience.
  • Boost the Flavor – Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar for extra richness.
  • Make it Vegetarian – Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth and add mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free version.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This French Onion Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining the luxurious flavors of French onion soup with the heartiness of pasta. Whether you're making it for a cozy dinner, a gathering with friends, or meal prepping for the week, it's a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Give this recipe a try and experience savory, cheesy perfection in every bite. You’ll never look at pasta bakes the same way again!

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