One-Pot French Onion Pasta 

Indulge in restaurant-quality comfort with this One-Pot French Onion Pasta, inspired by classic French onion soup. Caramelized yellow onions simmered in an umami-rich broth blend with pasta and cheesy goodness to create a creamy, cozy meal—without any heavy cream or multiple pots. Easy to prepare, pantry-friendly, and packed with flavor, it’s the ideal weeknight dinner or special treat. The dish is creamy, flavorful, and versatile—customizable with add-ins, and while comforting on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

Ingredients (serves 6)

Onions & Aromatics

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (⅛″ rings)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• Pinch to ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

Sauce & Pasta

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce

• 5½ cups water

• 12 oz evaporated milk

• ½ tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tbsp beef bouillon (granulated or cubes)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, minced (or 1 tsp dried)

• 2 tsp fresh thyme, minced (or ¾ tsp dried)

• ½ tsp each dried oregano, paprika, and black pepper

• ~12 oz short pasta (e.g. orecchiette or small shells)

Cheeses

• ~5 oz Gruyère, shredded

• ~¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan

Directions

1. Caramelize the onions
   In a large pot over medium heat, melt olive oil and butter. Add sliced onions, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions turn deeply golden and sweet—about 45–60 minutes.

2. Add aromatics and sauces
   Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire, and soy sauce. Cook for ~30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Build the sauce
   Add water, evaporated milk, cornstarch, bouillon, parsley, thyme, oregano, paprika, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.

4. Cook pasta
   Add pasta, reduce heat to a medium simmer. Cook uncovered for about 11–14 minutes (or as package directs) until al dente, stirring occasionally.

5. Finish with cheese
   Remove pot from heat. Stir in Gruyère a handful at a time until melted, then add Parmesan until creamy and smooth.

6. Serve
   Garnish with parsley and extra cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately.

Nutritional Estimate (per serving, approx.)

Based on a similar version with ground beef and different proportions, here’s an approximate breakdown:

• Calories: ~691 kcal

• Carbohydrates: ~77 g

• Protein: ~26 g

• Fat: ~30 g (Saturated ~15 g)

• Fiber: ~5 g

• Sodium: ~1,767 mg