If you love the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup and the comforting appeal of a creamy pasta bake, this French Onion Soup Pasta Bake is your culinary match made in heaven. With sweet caramelized onions, tangy Greek yogurt, melty Gruyere cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is everything you love about comfort food, but with an elegant twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French onion pasta bake combines the best parts of classic French onion soup with the ease of a one-pot pasta dish:

  • Rich & Creamy: The combination of caramelized onions, beef broth, and Gruyere cheese creates a decadent, creamy sauce.
  • Minimal Cleanup: Made in one pot and finished in a baking dish, it’s easy to prepare and clean up afterward.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this irresistible French Onion Soup Pasta Bake:

  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil: Helps caramelize the onions.
  • 2 tbsp Butter: Adds richness to the dish.
  • 3 Onions, Thinly Sliced: A mix of yellow and sweet onions works beautifully.
  • 2 tbsp Maple Syrup: Enhances the natural sweetness of the onions.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory depth to the dish.
  • 4 Garlic Cloves, Minced: For that aromatic kick.
  • 3-4 Sprigs Fresh Thyme: Adds an earthy, herbaceous note.
  • 3 Cups Beef Broth and 2 Cups Water: A rich, flavorful base while cooking the pasta.
  • 410g Short Pasta: Rigatoni, penne, or farfalle are excellent options.
  • ½ Cup Greek Yogurt: Adds a creamy, tangy finish without the heaviness of cream.
  • 1 Cup Gruyere Cheese, Grated: The star of any French onion dish.

How to Make French Onion Soup Pasta Bake

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Heat olive oil and butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Add the maple syrup and Worcestershire sauce, letting them infuse the onions for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Pour in the beef broth, water, and fresh thyme sprigs. Bring to a boil, then add the pasta. Cook over medium heat until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 10-12 minutes). Remove the thyme sprigs.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and half of the grated Gruyere cheese until creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining Gruyere cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the pasta bake cool slightly before serving. Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

Choose the Right Onions: Yellow or sweet onions work best for a rich caramelized flavor.

Don’t Rush the Onions: Low and slow cooking is key to achieving deeply caramelized onions.

Use High-Quality Cheese: Gruyere is traditional, but you can substitute with Swiss cheese, sharp cheddar cheese or mozzarella in a pinch.

Make Ahead: Caramelize the onions ahead of time to save effort on busy nights.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and check your Worcestershire sauce for gluten-free certification.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This recipe blends the timeless appeal of French onion soup with the comforting familiarity of a pasta bake. It’s a perfect dish for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. The combination of sweet caramelized onions, creamy sauce, and bubbly Gruyere topping makes this dish a standout.

Recipe FAQ

Absolutely! Add ½ cup of red wine after caramelizing the onions for an extra layer of depth.

Yes, you can use sour cream or heavy cream for a richer texture.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Other Pasta Recipes You’ll Love

Final Thoughts

This French Onion Soup Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with the savory flavors of French onion soup, all in an easy-to-make, one-pot format. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or holiday entertaining, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

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