French Onion Pasta
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of French onion pasta, where classic French onion soup meets creamy pasta for a delicious and satisfying dish. This recipe combines caramelized onions, savory broth, and a hint of cheese, all enveloped in tender pasta. Ideal for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful, making it a must-try for any pasta lover.
Ingredients
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cups beef or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 480
– Protein: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Fats: 25g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 15-20 minutes).
4. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
7. Mix in half of the Gruyère cheese until melted and creamy.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
9. Top with remaining cheese and broil until golden and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fettuccine with any pasta type you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Additionally, vegetable broth can replace beef broth for a vegetarian option.
Serving and Pairings
French onion pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A glass of white wine enhances the meal, making it perfect for entertaining guests or a cozy night in.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t rush the caramelization of the onions; low and slow is key.
- Use a large enough skillet to avoid overcrowding the onions.
- Make sure to season the broth adequately for depth of flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Don’t skip the broiling step; it creates a delicious crust.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when caramelizing the onions.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique twist.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
- Top with crispy fried onions for a crunchy garnish.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramelized onions and sauce in advance. Combine with pasta just before serving for best results.
Is this dish vegetarian?
If you use vegetable broth and omit any meat, this dish can easily be made vegetarian.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute fettuccine with any pasta shape you enjoy.
What can I serve with French onion pasta?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a bit of broth.
Conclusion
French onion pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the best flavors of classic French cuisine in a pasta form. Perfect for cozy nights or special occasions, it’s sure to impress and satisfy anyone at the table.
French Onion Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 large onions thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 15-20 minutes).
- Pour in broth and bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Mix in half of the Gruyère cheese until melted and creamy.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheese and broil until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
