Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood over the stove, the sweet scent of caramelizing onions filled the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy bistro somewhere in France. That’s when it hit me—what if this classic French onion soup could transform into something even more delightful? Enter my Creamy French Onion Soup Pasta, where tender cavatappi embraces a lush, velvety béchamel sauce and is topped with crispy breadcrumbs to satisfy any comfort food cravings. This dish not only comes together in about an hour, but it also beautifully combines familiar flavors into a comforting meal that’s perfect for both special gatherings and cozy nights in. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or casually cooking, this recipe offers a fun twist that’s sure to please. Are you ready to elevate your pasta game like never before? Why is this pasta recipe a must-try? Comfort Food Reimagined: This Creamy French Onion Soup Pasta beautifully merges the richness of a classic soup with the satisfying heartiness of pasta, making every bite a revelation. Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this dish in under an hour without fuss. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and creamy béchamel is a showstopper, sure to impress family and friends at any gathering. Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal or serve with a glass of white wine for sophistication. Texture Contrast: Each serving boasts a delightful mix of creamy sauce enveloping cavatappi, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs for that perfect bite. For those who love pasta, this recipe can easily join your rotation alongside other favorites, like Creamy Beef Pasta Protein or Lemon Chicken Pasta. Don’t miss out on the chance to brighten your dining table with this warm and delightful dish! French Onion Soup Pasta Ingredients For the Breadcrumbs Baguette – Ideal for making fresh breadcrumbs; you can swap it for store-bought panko or regular breadcrumbs for convenience. For the Pasta and Sauce Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing and caramelizing onions, adding rich flavor. Cavatappi Macaroni – A fantastic shape that holds the creamy sauce well; feel free to substitute with another pasta type if preferred. Onions (5, thinly sliced) – The star of this dish, which sweetens and adds depth through caramelization. Beef Broth (½ cup) – Enhances the flavor profile; vegetable broth works perfectly for a vegetarian option. Heavy Cream (3 cups) – The heart of the creamy béchamel sauce; coconut milk can be used for a dairy-free alternative. Flour (1 tablespoon) – Helps thicken the béchamel, giving it a luscious consistency. Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated) – Adds umami richness; nutritional yeast makes a great vegan substitute. Garlic Powder, Smoked Paprika Powder, Nutmeg – Elevate the flavor of the sauce; adjust according to your taste preferences. Salt & Pepper – Key ingredients for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors. Oregano – Brings depth and earthiness to the dish. Sugar (1 teaspoon) – Optional but can help caramelize the onions evenly. For Garnish Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness to the final presentation. Dive into this French Onion Soup Pasta adventure, and transform your next meal into a delicious, comforting experience that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Onion Soup Pasta Step 1: Slice the Onions Begin by thinly slicing five onions, ensuring even pieces for optimal caramelization. Use a sharp knife and a cutting board to make this task easier. Set the sliced onions aside as you prepare to bring out their natural sweetness in the next step. Step 2: Caramelize the Onions In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally. Allow the onions to caramelize for 30-40 minutes, until they become golden brown and fragrant. If they start to stick, consider adding a teaspoon of sugar to help speed up the process. Step 3: Add Beef Broth Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, pour in ½ cup of beef broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape any caramelized bits from the skillet as the broth simmers, enhancing the flavor. Let this mixture simmer for 10 minutes to deepen the flavor of your French Onion Soup Pasta while you prepare the béchamel sauce. Step 4: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce In the same skillet, melt four tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in one tablespoon of flour, cooking for about 1 minute until golden. Gradually add 3 cups of heavy cream, whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes, and turn the heat to low as you incorporate the caramelized onions. Step 5: Incorporate Seasonings and Cheese Stir in ⅔ of the caramelized onions into the béchamel sauce, along with salt, pepper, oregano, and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking, this luscious sauce serves as the heart of your French Onion Soup Pasta. Step 6: Cook the Pasta In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook 12 ounces of cavatappi macaroni until just shy of al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain the pasta, but reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. Combine the al dente pasta with the béchamel sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to achieve your desired consistency. Step 7: Assemble the Dish Transfer the creamy pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly distribute the remaining caramelized onions over the top, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Step 8: Add Breadcrumbs and Bake In a small bowl, toss fresh breadcrumbs from a baguette with olive oil and seasonings to taste. Spread the breadcrumb mixture over the pasta and onions. Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy, creating a delightful contrast for your French Onion Soup Pasta. French Onion Soup Pasta Variations Feel free to personalize your creamy pasta creation with these fun and flavorful twists! Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk to create a lighter, coconut-infused version that retains the dish’s creaminess. Vegan Delight: Use vegan butter and plant-based cheese, making a savory dairy-free alternative while keeping all the comfort. Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a boost of flavor and nutrients; they pair beautifully with the caramelized onions. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or sauté sliced jalapeños to bring some heat. The added spice complements the sweetness of the onions perfectly. Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the aromatic profile. These herbaceous notes will elevate your dish to gourmet status. Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute regular cavatappi with a gluten-free pasta version; it still holds the sauce well and keeps all the comforting vibes intact. Hearty Protein: Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein while maintaining its vegetarian charm, offering an earthy flavor addition. Cheese Lovers: For a gooey cheesy experience, mix in additional cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for that stretchy, melt-in-your-mouth delight. If you’re in the mood for more pasta magic, consider trying dishes like Tuscan Sausage Pasta or Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad to expand your culinary repertoire! Storage Tips for French Onion Soup Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure that the pasta has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: You can freeze your French Onion Soup Pasta for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through, or warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce if needed. Serving Note: If you plan to serve your stored pasta slightly differently, consider adding extra breadcrumbs or a sprinkle of cheese before reheating to enhance the crispy texture. Expert Tips for French Onion Soup Pasta Perfect Caramelization: Be patient when caramelizing onions; allow them 30-40 minutes to develop that sweet, rich flavor without burning. Smooth Béchamel: If your béchamel sauce becomes lumpy, add a touch of ice-cold water and whisk vigorously until smooth to avoid a clumpy texture in your French Onion Soup Pasta. Pasta Consistency: Cook the cavatappi just shy of al dente; it will continue cooking in the oven, ensuring a pleasant bite without being mushy. Breadcrumb Crunch: For the crispiest topping, use fresh baguette for breadcrumbs, but store-bought panko works in a pinch if you’re short on time. Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to taste and tweak seasonings; every onion and cream can vary, so adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your palate. Make Ahead Options These Creamy French Onion Soup Pasta components are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the caramelized onions and béchamel sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain their flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious meal, combine the prepped sauce with freshly cooked pasta, then transfer to a baking dish. Top with any remaining caramelized onions and breadcrumbs, and bake as directed for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This approach not only saves you time but ensures your pasta is just as creamy and comforting when served! What to Serve with Creamy French Onion Soup Pasta Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich, velvety flavors of your dish. Crispy Green Salad: A salad filled with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic Bread: Crunchy, warm garlic bread is the ideal side, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce and adding satisfying texture. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies bring a slight sweetness and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet, caramelized onions. White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc harmonizes with the creaminess of the dish, enhancing its comforting flavors. Mushroom Risotto: This creamy risotto adds an earthy, umami richness that pairs wonderfully with the sweet notes of your French Onion Soup Pasta. Cheese Platter: A platter of assorted cheeses can introduce various textures and flavors, making it a fun and interactive appetizer before the main meal. Apple Crisp: End the meal with a warm and spiced apple crisp, providing a sweet finish that echoes the warmth and heartiness of the pasta. Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzling herb-infused olive oil over the pasta before serving would heighten its aroma and add fresh flavors. Creamy French Onion Soup Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of onions should I use for this pasta? I recommend using yellow onions for the best sweetness and flavor in your Creamy French Onion Soup Pasta. They caramelize beautifully, offering that classic, rich taste. However, you can also experiment with sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions if you prefer a milder flavor. How should I store leftovers of the Creamy French Onion Soup Pasta? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the pasta to cool down before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. If you’d like to preserve it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Can I freeze Creamy French Onion Soup Pasta? Absolutely! To freeze, first cool the pasta completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, making sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to minimize air exposure. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. What should I do if my béchamel sauce is lumpy? Don’t worry! If your béchamel sauce gets lumpy, simply add a small amount of ice-cold water (about a tablespoon) and whisk vigorously over low heat. This should help smooth out the sauce. If it’s still not smooth, try using an immersion blender to achieve a creamy consistency without lumps. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, of course! To make a vegetarian version of the Creamy French Onion Soup Pasta, simply substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth. Additionally, you can switch out the heavy cream for coconut milk to keep it dairy-free, or use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a vegan twist. What pasta shape works best for this recipe? Cavatappi macaroni is my top recommendation as it holds the creamy sauce beautifully with its spiral shape. However, feel free to substitute with other pasta shapes like fusilli or penne if you have those on hand—just ensure it’s a type that can capture that luscious sauce! Creamy French Onion Soup Pasta That Will Warm Your Heart This Creamy French Onion Soup Pasta merges classic soup flavors with pasta, creating a comforting dish that's ideal for dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: FrenchCalories: 650 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Breadcrumbs1 baguette Baguette Ideal for making fresh breadcrumbs.For the Pasta and Sauce2 tablespoons Olive Oil Essential for sautéing onions.12 ounces Cavatappi Macaroni Feel free to substitute with another pasta type.5 pieces Onions Thinly sliced.0.5 cup Beef Broth Vegetable broth works as a vegetarian option.3 cups Heavy Cream Can use coconut milk for dairy-free.1 tablespoon Flour Helps thicken the béchamel.1 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated; nutritional yeast is a vegan substitute.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adjust according to taste.1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Powder Adjust according to taste.1 teaspoon Nutmeg Adjust according to taste.to taste Salt & Pepper Key for seasoning.1 teaspoon Oregano Adds depth and earthiness.1 teaspoon Sugar Optional for caramelizing onions.For Garnish1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Adds color and freshness. Equipment Large skilletpotBaking dishCutting boardWhisk Method Step-by-Step Instructions for French Onion Soup PastaBegin by thinly slicing five onions and set them aside.Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and a pinch of salt, caramelizing for 30-40 minutes.Pour in ½ cup of beef broth to deglaze the pan, simmer for 10 minutes.Melt four tablespoons of butter in the skillet. Whisk in flour, then gradually add heavy cream, cook until thickened.Stir in ⅔ of the caramelized onions, seasonings, and parmesan cheese into the béchamel sauce.Boil salted water, cook cavatappi until just shy of al dente, then drain, reserving pasta water. Mix pasta with béchamel sauce.Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining caramelized onions.Toss breadcrumbs with olive oil, spread over pasta, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until golden. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2.5mg NotesFor the best results, be patient while caramelizing the onions and adjust the seasoning to taste. If the béchamel thickens too much, add a splash of cream for a smoother consistency. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
