Name: French Onion Soup Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: For the Breadcrumbs:; ½ baguette, cut into small pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 2 teaspoons oregano; For the Pasta:; 300g Cavatappi macaroni (or any pasta); 5 onions, thinly sliced; ½ cup beef broth; 3 cups heavy cream; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tablespoon flour + 3 tablespoons water for béchamel; 1 teaspoon sugar (optional); Fresh parsley (for garnish); 2 teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika powder; ½ teaspoon nutmeg

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If you’re a fan of French onion soup, you’re going to love this French Onion Soup Pasta! It takes all the delicious flavors of caramelized onions, rich béchamel sauce, and crispy breadcrumbs, and combines them with pasta for a truly indulgent meal. This recipe is the perfect comfort food for cozy nights, offering a balance of sweet onions, creamy sauce, and a golden, crispy topping that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a unique take on pasta, this dish is sure to hit the spot!

French Onion Soup Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French Onion Soup Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with the satisfying texture of pasta. The caramelized onions are cooked to golden perfection, providing a sweet and savory base, while the creamy béchamel sauce adds a velvety richness. Topped with crispy breadcrumbs and melted cheese, this dish is as comforting as it is delicious. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Tip: you’ll find full ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

For the Breadcrumbs:

½ baguette, cut into small pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoon oregano

For the Pasta:

300 g Cavatappi macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
5 onions, thinly sliced
½ cup beef broth
3 cups heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tablespoon flour + 3 tablespoon water for béchamel
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon smoked paprika powder
½ teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Thinly slice the onions into long strips. Heat a large skillet or pan over medium heat and add olive oil. Sauté the onions for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Allow the onions to caramelize slowly, making sure they don’t burn. You can add a teaspoon of sugar to speed up caramelization, but it’s optional.

If the onions begin to stick to the bottom of the pan, add in the beef broth and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Once the onions are fully caramelized, set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over low-medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute. Gradually add in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. If your béchamel sauce gets lumpy, add a little ice-cold water and whisk vigorously to smooth it out.

Stir in two-thirds of the caramelized onions and let the sauce simmer. Season with salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and 1 cup of Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until it’s just shy of al dente, as it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain the pasta and combine it with the béchamel sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Top with the remaining third of the caramelized onions and sprinkle with the homemade breadcrumbs.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. Let the pasta rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serve hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this French Onion Soup Pasta!

Variations

Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream, nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and skip the butter in the béchamel sauce.
Add Meat: If you’d like to add some protein, sauté ground beef or chicken with the onions before adding the broth.
Different Cheese: You can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or cheddar for a unique flavor profile.

Heating and Storage

This pasta makes great leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute Cavatappi with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pasta and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version of the recipe.

How do I prevent the onions from burning during caramelization?

Make sure to cook the onions on medium heat and stir frequently. If they start to stick or burn, add a splash of broth or water to deglaze the pan.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this pasta after baking. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.

What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?

You can use homemade or store-bought breadcrumbs. For extra flavor, use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.

Can I make this dish without cream?

If you want a lighter version, you can use milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the sauce won’t be as rich.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, or add a teaspoon of hot sauce to the béchamel sauce.

How do I know when the pasta is done?

The pasta should be golden brown and crispy on top. The edges should look slightly caramelized, and the sauce should be bubbling.

Can I skip the oven step?

You can, but baking it allows the top to get crispy and enhances the flavors. If you’re short on time, you can also serve it directly from the stovetop.

Conclusion

This French Onion Soup Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, with its rich, creamy sauce, tender pasta, and golden, crispy topping. It’s a delicious twist on the classic French onion soup and will be a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. Enjoy!