Lunch & Dinner

French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe – Gourmet And Food

Name: French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe – Gourmet And Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 carton of low-sodium beef stock; 12 ounces dried orecchiette pasta; 1/3 cup red port wine; 2/3 cup filtered water; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 1/2 pounds yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 ounces aged Gruyère cheese, finely grated; Sea salt, to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Maria George February 4, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 55 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

Jump To Recipe Print Recipe

You know that feeling when you discover a dish that elegantly marries comforting flavors? That’s the exact vibe French onion soup pasta gives off. Imagine the rich, savory essence of classic French onion soup transformed into a vibrant pasta dish that dazzles your taste buds.

Before diving into the details of this unique dish, let’s talk about what pairs beautifully with it. A crisp green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of French onion soup pasta.

The salad cuts through the creamy cheese and caramelized onions, balancing the palate. Pair that with a glass of your favorite red wine, and you’ve got a meal that’s simply divine.

What is French Onion Soup Pasta?

So, what exactly is French onion soup pasta? Picture this: the essence of beloved French onion soup—think sweet caramelized onions, hearty beef stock, rich Gruyère cheese—all folded into pasta. It’s comfort food reimagined.

This dish has the heartwarming qualities of soup but offers the satisfying chew of pasta. It’s a marriage of textures and flavors that any food enthusiast like me will appreciate.

The Ingredients

Let’s get into the essentials for crafting this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 (32-ounce) carton of low-sodium beef stock
12 ounces dried orecchiette pasta
1/3 cup red port wine
2/3 cup filtered water
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 pounds yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 ounces aged Gruyère cheese, finely grated
Sea salt, to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make French Onion Soup Pasta?

Before we jump into the step-by-step guide, let’s take a moment to appreciate the simplicity of creating this dish. It doesn’t require any advanced culinary skills, just a willingness to savor the process.

The method involves caramelizing onions until they’re beautifully golden, creating a rich broth, cooking the pasta to perfection, and combining it all for a cozy meal. Ready? Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

To start, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions. Stir them occasionally. Patience is key here. You’ll want to cook the onions for about 20-30 minutes, or until they’re a lovely golden brown.

This gradual caramelization develops their sweetness and transforms them into the flavor foundation for your pasta. If they start to stick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water.

Step 2: Add the Liquids

Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, pour in the red port wine. It’s time to deglaze the pot! Scrape any bits stuck at the bottom. This adds wonderful flavor to the mix.

After the wine reduces for about 2-3 minutes, add the beef stock and the filtered water. The aroma coming from the pot is simply irresistible.

Step 3: Season the Broth

Now, season your broth with sea salt, black pepper, fresh thyme leaves, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. The combination of flavors is what makes this dish reminiscent of classic French onion soup.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Next, add your dried orecchiette directly into the pot. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally. You want the pasta to absorb some of that savory broth, so don’t skip this step! When it’s al dente, remove it from the heat.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese

Finally, stir in the grated Gruyère cheese while the pasta is still hot. Watch it melt into the broth. This is the magical moment! The cheese will make the broth creamy and dreamy.

If you’re feeling extra indulgent, top off each serving with more cheese and broil it in the oven until bubbly.

Notes

Here are some tips to ensure your French onion soup pasta is a success:

Use Low-Sodium Beef Stock: This allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.

Monitor Onion Color: Keep an eye on your onions. They should develop a golden hue, not burn.
Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Aged Gruyère is essential for that authentic flavor, so don’t substitute it lightly.
Pasta Cooking Time: Always follow the package instructions for cooking pasta to achieve the perfect texture.

Taste as You Go: This helps you adjust seasoning and ensure you love the flavors.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), store them in an airtight container. This dish keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just remember that the pasta will continue to absorb the broth, so it may thicken over time. You can always add a splash of beef stock or water when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Looking to enhance your meal? Here are some serving ideas:

Pair with Garlic Bread: The crunch of garlic bread complements the softness of the pasta. You’ll want to mop up every last drop!
Top with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra thyme makes the dish visually appealing and deliciously fragrant.
Add a Side Salad: A light salad can balance the richness of this pasta. Think of crisp greens and a zingy dressing.

Serve in Individual Bowls: For dinner parties, serving this dish in personal bowls elevates the dining experience.
Include a Charcuterie Board: Offer a selection of cheeses, meats, and crackers. It’ll impress your guests and provide variety.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in French Onion Soup Pasta?

Got different ingredients on hand? Here are some substitutes:

Dried Pasta: If you don’t have orecchiette, feel free to use any favorite pasta shape like shell, fusilli, or penne. They all work well with the sauce.

Beef Stock: Chicken or vegetable stock can be used for a lighter flavor profile, making this dish suitable for more dietary preferences.
Gruyère Cheese: Don’t fret if you can’t find Gruyère! Swiss, provolone, or even mozzarella can work in a pinch. Each brings its own flair.
Red Port Wine: If you don’t have red port, a splash of red wine or sherry can achieve similar results in flavor.

Fresh Thyme: Dried thyme can substitute fresh, though use about 1/3 of the amount.

Conclusion

French onion soup pasta is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With each bite, you experience layers of flavor, warmth, and nostalgia. This dish bursts with creativity and offers something truly special for any gathering.

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is destined to impress. So grab these ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this culinary adventure. Bon appétit!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

Print Recipe

French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe – Gourmet And Food

Author: Maria George Cuisine: French Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 55 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 604 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

You know that feeling when you discover a dish that elegantly marries comforting flavors? That's the exact vibe French onion soup pasta gives off. Imagine the rich, savory essence of classic French onion soup transformed into a vibrant pasta dish that dazzles your taste buds.

Before diving into the details of this unique dish, let's talk about what pairs beautifully with it. A crisp green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of French onion soup pasta.

The salad cuts through the creamy cheese and caramelized onions, balancing the palate. Pair that with a glass of your favorite red wine, and you’ve got a meal that’s simply divine.