I absolutely love this One Pot French Onion Pasta because it takes the classic French onion soup and transforms it into a delicious, comforting pasta dish. The caramelized onions bring out a rich, deep sweetness that perfectly infuses the pasta, while the creamy Gruyère cheese adds a savory depth that makes every bite irresistible. The beauty of this recipe is that everything is cooked in just one pot, which means minimal cleanup. It’s a perfect dish for cozy weeknight dinners or a special meal on the weekend!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons salted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1/4 cup dry white wine
5½ cups water
1 pound lumache (snail shells) or other medium shell pasta
1 ounce Parmesan, finely grated (about ½ cup)
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
8 ounces Gruyère, coarsely grated (about 2 cups)
Thinly sliced chives (for serving; optional)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, high-sided ovenproof skillet or another large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally and adding 1 tablespoon of water to deglaze the pan if the onions start to burn, until the onions are deeply caramelized and jammy, about 30–35 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the dry white wine and cook for about 3 minutes, until it has reduced by half.
Add the water and bring to a simmer.
Stir in the pasta and cook, stirring often to prevent sticking, until most of the liquid has been absorbed, and the pasta is al dente, about 10–14 minutes.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace beef broth with vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan Version: Swap out the butter for olive oil, and use vegan cheese alternatives in place of Parmesan and Gruyère.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add cooked chicken or sausage to the pasta for a boost of protein.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist that complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

How do I achieve perfectly caramelized onions?

Patience is key! I cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally. If they start to burn, I add a bit of water to deglaze the pan. They should become a deep mahogany color and have a jammy consistency.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap out the lumache for other medium-sized pasta shapes, such as rigatoni or shells. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes might require slight adjustments.

Is broiling necessary for this dish?

Broiling is optional, but it does create a beautiful crispy top layer. If you prefer a softer texture, you can skip the broiling step and serve the pasta as soon as it’s done cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the caramelized onion mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Then, just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.

What sides should I serve with this pasta?

This pasta is rich and flavorful on its own, but I love serving it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.

Conclusion

This One Pot French Onion Pasta is a deliciously comforting dish with rich, caramelized onions and a creamy cheese sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal cleanup, it’s an easy, yet indulgent meal that I often turn to when I want something cozy and satisfying. The combination of sweet onions, savory cheese, and pasta makes every bite a treat, and it’s bound to become a favorite in my recipe collection.