French Onion Pasta Bowl (Printable Recipe)

Caramelized onions and Gruyere melt into a creamy pasta for the ultimate one pot comfort meal.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ For the Onions

01 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 3 large yellow onions, sliced into 1/8-inch rings
04 - 1/8 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

→ For the Sauce

06 - 4 garlic cloves, minced
07 - Pinch to 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
08 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
09 - 1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce
10 - 5 1/2 cups water or beef broth
11 - 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
12 - 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
13 - 2 tablespoons beef bouillon granules or base
14 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced (or 1 teaspoon dried)
15 - 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced (or 3/4 teaspoon dried)
16 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
17 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
18 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ To Finish

19 - 1 pound short-cut pasta (such as orecchiette)
20 - 5 ounces Gruyere cheese, freshly shredded
21 - 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded
22 - Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Heat butter and olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, salt, and pepper. Cook slowly, stirring every few minutes, until onions turn deep golden brown and sweet, about 30–35 minutes.
02 - Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Pour in water and half the evaporated milk. Whisk cornstarch into remaining evaporated milk until smooth, then add to pot. Stir in bouillon, parsley, thyme, oregano, paprika, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
04 - Add uncooked pasta. Reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring often. Ensure pasta remains covered with liquid. Add more water as needed for tenderness and sauce consistency.
05 - Remove from heat. Stir in Gruyere gradually until melted. Add Parmesan and mix until sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley before serving.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Caramelize onions slowly over medium heat to develop maximum sweetness without burning.
02 - Shred cheeses fresh for smooth melting and rich flavor.
03 - Stir pasta often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
04 - Add a splash of milk or water when reheating to restore creamy texture.

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