Creamy French Onion Pasta: A Simple, Elegant Recipe

French onion soup is a classic for a reason – its rich, savory depth of flavor is simply irresistible. But who says that flavor has to be confined to a bowl of soup? This recipe transforms the iconic flavors of French onion soup into a creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious pasta dish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, yet sophisticated meal!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe is surprisingly simple, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a healthy fat base for sautéing.
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced: The star of the show! Thinly slicing ensures they caramelize properly.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent depth to the onion flavor.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine: Deglazes the pan and adds a subtle complexity. (You can substitute chicken broth if preferred)
• 4 cups beef broth: Provides the liquid base for the creamy sauce. Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that pairs beautifully with onions and beef.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds another layer of aromatic depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the savory notes.
• 1 (10 ounce) package pasta (fettuccine or tagliatelle recommended): Choose a pasta shape that can hold the creamy sauce well.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich and creamy texture of the sauce.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, sharp flavor and creamy texture.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create a glossy sauce.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Deliciousness

Follow these easy steps to create this irresistible French Onion Pasta:

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

• Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, until deeply caramelized and golden brown. This is key to the flavor of the dish, so be patient! Low and slow is the name of the game.
• Add the minced garlic during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

• Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly reduced.
• Stir in the beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

• While the onion mixture simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

• Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the onion mixture. Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

• Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
• Stir in the butter until melted and the sauce is glossy.
• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips for the Best French Onion Pasta

• Don't rush the caramelization: The longer you cook the onions, the richer and more flavorful your pasta will be.
• Use a good quality beef broth: The broth forms the base of your sauce, so using a flavorful broth is crucial.
• Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to add more thyme, rosemary, pepper, or salt to your liking.
• Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, beef, or sausage to the pasta.

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