French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both the heart and the belly, this French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe is just what you need! Imagine buttery, caramelized onions mingling with creamy sauce and pasta that hugs every bite. It’s a delightful twist on classic flavors that brings comfort to busy weeknights or festive family gatherings. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a regular in your meal rotation!
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of rich flavors and textures makes it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: This recipe comes together with simple steps, making it perfect even for beginner cooks.
- Family-friendly: Everyone loves cheesy pasta! This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Make-ahead option: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
- Comforting flavors: The caramelized onions add a sweet depth that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and crispy topping.
- Versatile: You can customize ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for wholesome, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Pasta
- 1/2 Baguette
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 2 tsp Oregano
- 300 g Cavatappi Macaroni
For the Sauce
- 5 Onions (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 3 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
- 1 tbsp Flour + 3 tbsp water (for bécchicken chicken hamel)
- 1 tsp Sugar
- Fresh Parsley (chopped)
For Seasoning
- 2 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika powder
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
Variations
This French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to adapt it according to your tastes or what you have on hand.
- Add some protein: Toss in cooked chicken, ground turkey, or sautéed mushrooms for added heartiness.
- Make it veggie: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles for a lighter option, or use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your dish!
How to Make French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Slice the Onions
Thinly slice the onions into long strips. This step is essential because caramelizing them will bring out their natural sweetness, creating that rich flavor we all love in French onion soup.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Sauté the onions for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Patience is key here; allowing them to caramelize slowly will develop their deep flavor without burning. If you want to speed things up, feel free to sprinkle in a teaspoon of sugar!
Step 3: Add Broth
When the onions are beautifully golden and soft, if they start sticking to the pan, pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes. This step adds moisture and enhances that savory flavor we’ve been working towards.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over low-medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about a minute before gradually adding heavy cream. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens! If lumps form during cooking, don’t fret—just whisk in some ice-cold water until smooth again.
Step 5: Mix In Flavor
Once your sauce has thickened nicely, stir in about two-thirds of those caramelized onions we’ve set aside earlier. Season with salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and Parmesan cheese. This mixture will be creamy goodness!
Step 6: Cook Your Pasta
While you’re making that luscious sauce, bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook your cavatappi macaroni until just shy of al dente; remember they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Now it’s time to combine! Mix your cooked pasta with that rich bécchicken chicken hamel sauce until every piece of pasta is coated beautifully.
Step 8: Assemble for Baking
Transfer this heavenly mixture into a baking dish. Top with those remaining caramelized onions and sprinkle homemade breadcrumbs on top for an irresistible crunch.
Step 9: Bake It Up!
Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until the top turns golden brown and crisp. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve immediately while it’s warm and gooey—trust me; everyone will want seconds! Enjoy every bite of this comforting French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe with friends or family!
Pro Tips for Making French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe
Cooking is all about finding joy in the process, and these tips will help you elevate your French Onion Soup Pasta to perfection!
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Choose the Right Onions: Use yellow or sweet onions for the best flavor. They caramelize beautifully, enhancing the dish’s sweetness and depth.
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Low and Slow Caramelization: Patience is key! Cooking the onions slowly allows their natural sugars to develop fully, resulting in rich, golden-brown perfection.
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Don’t Rush the Béchamel Sauce: Gradually adding the cream while whisking ensures a smooth sauce. This step is crucial for achieving that silky texture that coats every piece of pasta.
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Opt for Fresh Parsley: Adding fresh parsley not only brightens the dish but also balances the richness with its freshness. Plus, it makes your pasta visually appealing!
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Experiment with Cheeses: While Parmesan is fantastic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for extra flavor and creaminess. It adds a unique twist to the traditional recipe!
How to Serve French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe
Presenting your French Onion Soup Pasta can be as delightful as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you’ll impress everyone at your table.
Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and freshness.
- Extra Cheese: Grate some additional Parmesan on top just before serving for an extra cheesy experience.
- Cracked Black Pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper enhances flavor and adds a touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus spears provide a fresh crunch and vibrant green to balance out the creamy pasta dish.
With these tips and serving suggestions, your French Onion Soup Pasta will not only taste amazing but look stunning on any dining table. Enjoy this comforting dish with friends and family—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage
This French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it conveniently, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if it looks dry.
Freezing
- Let the pasta cool completely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, label with the date and contents.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, if frozen.
- Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, stirring every minute to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious dish!
Can I make this French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe without heavy cream?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream for a lighter option.
What type of cheese can I use in the French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe?
While Parmesan is traditional, you can also use Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor. Just ensure they melt well!
How long does it take to prepare this French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe?
The total time is approximately 85 minutes, including both prep and cooking time. It’s worth every minute for that rich flavor!
Can I add vegetables to this French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is this French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to try this comforting French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe! The sweet caramelized onions combined with creamy sauce and crispy topping create a dish that is not only satisfying but also brings warmth to any table. Enjoy making it, sharing it with loved ones, and savoring each delightful bite. Happy cooking!
French Onion Soup Pasta
Indulge in the comfort of our French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe, where savory caramelized onions blend seamlessly with creamy sauce and tender cavatappi macaroni. This delightful dish offers a heartwarming twist on classic flavors, making it ideal for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings. Rich, cheesy, and satisfying, this pasta bake is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Perfectly seasoned and topped with crispy breadcrumbs, each bite promises to deliver warmth and joy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
- 1/2 Baguette
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 5 Onions (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup Beef Broth
- 3 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 300 g Cavatappi Macaroni
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 2 tsp Oregano
- 1 tbsp Flour + 3 tbsp water
- 1 tsp Sugar
- Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika powder
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
Instructions
- Slice onions into long strips for even caramelization.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onions in olive oil for 30–40 minutes until golden brown.
- Add beef broth to the pan and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- In the same skillet, prepare the sauce by whisking in flour to melted butter, then gradually add heavy cream until thickened.
- Stir in two-thirds of the caramelized onions, seasoning with salt, pepper, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook cavatappi macaroni until just under al dente; combine with the sauce.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining onions and breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 48g
- Saturated Fat: 29g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 130mg