French Onion Pasta Recipe

This French Onion Pasta recipe combines the deep, savory flavors of caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, pancetta, and Gruyere cheese in a creamy sauce tossed with tender orecchiette pasta. Inspired by the classic French onion soup, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s a must-try for pasta lovers looking for something unique and indulgent. Whether you’re searching for a comforting weeknight meal or an elegant dish for entertaining, this creamy French onion pasta will hit all the right notes. Enjoy tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make it your own!

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 1 cup beef broth
• ½ cup chicken broth (or substitute with more beef broth)
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (or mustard powder)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon each: dried thyme, oregano

For the Pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz. white button mushrooms, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 oz. pancetta, diced
• ⅔ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 medium yellow onions, sliced into ¼-inch strips (about 15 oz.)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup Gruyere cheese, shredded (or substitute with mozzarella)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• ¾ pound orecchiette pasta

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Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large measuring cup, combine beef broth, chicken broth, half-and-half, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, parsley, thyme, and oregano. Set aside.

Cook the Mushrooms and Pancetta

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and sauté for 3 minutes. Sprinkle with salt to enhance their flavor.
3. Add diced pancetta and sauté for another 3–4 minutes. Remove both from the skillet and set aside.

Deglaze the Pan

4. Turn off the heat. Add the white wine to the skillet, then set the heat to medium. Use a silicone spatula to scrape and clean the bottom of the skillet, incorporating any browned bits into the liquid.

Caramelize the Onions

5. Add butter and sliced onions to the skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 10 minutes.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking, stirring often, for an additional 30–35 minutes until onions are golden and caramelized. Add a splash of wine or olive oil if needed for moisture.

Prepare the Pasta

7. While the onions cook, boil a large pot of water. Once boiling, add salt (about ½ tablespoon kosher salt) and the orecchiette pasta. Cook to al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Finish the Sauce

8. Add minced garlic to the caramelized onions and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle in flour and stir continuously for 2 minutes.
9. Gradually add the prepared sauce mixture in small splashes, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover partially and let it thicken while the pasta finishes cooking.

Combine and Serve

10. Reduce the heat of the sauce to low and slowly stir in the Gruyere and Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
11. Stir in the sautéed mushrooms and pancetta. Gradually add the cooked pasta, mixing well to achieve your desired sauce-to-pasta ratio. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Savory: The caramelized onions, mushrooms, and Gruyere cheese create a deep, comforting flavor.
• Perfect for Entertaining: This indulgent pasta dish is elegant enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
• One-Pot Elegance: Combines classic French onion soup flavors with hearty pasta for a truly satisfying meal.

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Tips

• Caramelizing Onions: Patience is key! Cook them low and slow for the best flavor.
• Deglazing: White wine adds depth to the dish, but you can substitute chicken broth if needed.
• Cheese Grating: Always grate cheese from a block for better melting and flavor.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Omit pancetta and use vegetable broth. Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Pasta Choices: Substitute orecchiette with farfalle, penne, or any pasta shape you love.
• Extra Protein: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier dish.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and caramelized onions ahead, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta.

What can I use instead of Gruyere?
Mozzarella or Fontina cheese are great substitutes that melt beautifully.

Can I skip the wine?
Absolutely! Substitute with chicken or beef broth for a similar flavor boost.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Serve with a glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

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This French Onion Pasta is a luxurious twist on a comfort classic that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds!