Ah, French Onion Soup – it’s one of those comforting, soul-warming dishes that always hits the spot, no matter the season. And while the traditional version is a classic for a reason, I’ve got a twist that you’re going to love. Imagine combining the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup with the satisfying heartiness of noodles. This One Pan French Onion Soup Noodles recipe brings together everything you adore about the classic soup, with the added bonus of perfectly cooked noodles soaked in all those deep, savory flavors.
The best part? You don’t need multiple pots and pans. Everything happens in one pan, making this dish not only delicious but also incredibly convenient for those busy weeknights. The onions caramelize beautifully, the broth is rich and savory, and the noodles absorb all the flavors, giving you a comforting meal in no time.
One Pan French Onion Soup Noodles Recipe
This recipe is as simple as it is mouthwatering. By melding the essence of French onion soup with pasta, you get an indulgent, filling dish with layers of deep flavors. Let’s get right into it.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a list of all the key ingredients you’ll need for this one-pan wonder.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing the onions and giving them that luscious, golden finish.
- Yellow Onions – About 4-5 large ones. You want them to cook down to that soft, caramelized sweetness that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Butter – A couple of tablespoons to add richness and depth to the flavor.
- Garlic – Because garlic makes everything better, right? Just a few cloves, minced.
- Beef Broth – This is the base of your French onion soup flavor. It gives the dish that hearty, savory profile.
- White Wine – A splash of dry white wine balances out the richness of the broth and caramelized onions.
- Fresh Thyme – A few sprigs to give that herby, aromatic essence that defines French onion soup.
- Bay Leaves – Adds depth and complexity to the flavor.
- Dried Pasta – Use any short pasta you like. Penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni work perfectly.
- Gruyère Cheese – For that melty, gooey topping that takes the dish to the next level. You can use Swiss cheese if you prefer, but Gruyère really adds that authentic French touch.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste, of course, for seasoning everything to perfection.
Cooking Instructions
Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can see just how easy (and delicious) this is going to be!
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Caramelize The Onions
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until they soften and turn golden brown. This is where all the magic happens – take your time to get those onions caramelized; they’re the heart of the dish.
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Add Garlic & Butter
Once your onions are perfectly caramelized, toss in the minced garlic and butter. Let the garlic cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant, making sure the butter melts and blends into the onions. The mixture should start to smell divine!
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Deglaze With Wine
Pour in the white wine and use a spatula to scrape up any flavorful brown bits stuck to the pan. This adds depth to the flavor and is a great way to elevate the dish. Let the wine cook down for about 3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.
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Add Broth & Herbs
Pour in the beef broth, and toss in the fresh thyme and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
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Cook The Pasta
Stir in your dried pasta and make sure it’s submerged in the broth. Let it cook, uncovered, for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed a lot of the broth. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
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Add Cheese & Melt
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese on top of the noodles, then cover the pan with a lid. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt into a gooey, cheesy layer that’s pure heaven.
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Serve & Enjoy
Discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaves, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve the noodles in bowls and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
- Yellow Onions: These are your go-to for caramelizing. They turn sweet and golden after a long cook, which is perfect for French onion soup. If you use other types of onions (like red or white), you’ll lose out on that deep sweetness that defines the dish.
- Beef Broth: This adds the essential umami flavor that makes the soup so hearty. If you want to keep it lighter, you could use chicken or vegetable broth, but beef broth really takes it to the next level. Opt for low-sodium versions so you can control the salt content.
- Gruyère Cheese: Gruyère is the classic choice for French onion soup. It’s nutty, slightly salty, and melts beautifully. If you can’t find it, try Swiss cheese, but make sure to get a good-quality, aged variety for the best melt.
- Wine: Dry white wine balances out the richness of the onions and beef broth, cutting through the richness while adding a bit of acidity. If you prefer not to use wine, you could substitute with a splash of vinegar or skip it entirely.
Expert Tips
- Patience with Onions: Don’t rush the caramelization process. The longer you cook the onions, the sweeter and more flavorful they’ll get. It’s worth the wait!
- Choosing the Right Pasta: Pick a pasta shape that will hold up well in the broth and absorb the flavors. Short pasta like penne or rotini works well because it traps the liquid inside the spirals or tubes.
- Cheese is Key: Don’t skimp on the cheese! Gruyère adds an unmistakable flavor that really makes this dish. If you’re in a rush, you could use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan, but Gruyère is non-negotiable if you’re aiming for authenticity.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead and reheated. The flavors will actually deepen overnight, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers.
Recipe Variations
If you’re in the mood to experiment, here are a few ways to put your own spin on this recipe:
- Add Protein: If you want to make it even heartier, toss in some cooked chicken or beef. Grilled chicken breast or ground beef would blend seamlessly into the dish.
- Go Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, simply swap the beef broth for vegetable broth, and the dish becomes a comforting vegetarian meal without losing any flavor.
- Spice It Up: Want a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the onions for a kick.
- Herb Variations: Swap out thyme for rosemary or tarragon for a different herbal profile. Both work great with onions and add a nice depth to the dish.
- Use a Different Cheese: While Gruyère is traditional, you could try adding a bit of sharp cheddar for a tangy bite or some fontina for a creamy melt.
Final Words
This One Pan French Onion Soup Noodles recipe brings the ultimate comfort food experience in a much more streamlined, easy-to-make way. With caramelized onions, savory beef broth, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked noodles, you’ll be transported straight to a cozy bistro in France, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity, but the depth of flavor is anything but basic.
FAQs
What Is A One Pan French Onion Soup Noodles Recipe?
A one pan French onion soup noodles recipe is a simplified version of French onion soup, where noodles are incorporated into the dish. The recipe is cooked in a single pan, making it easy to prepare and clean up afterward. It typically features caramelized onions, savory broth, and noodles, topped with melted cheese for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Can I Use Any Type Of Noodles For The One Pan French Onion Soup Noodles Recipe?
Yes, you can use a variety of noodles in the recipe, such as egg noodles, fettuccine, or even penne. The choice of noodle depends on your texture preference, but traditionally, egg noodles or any soft, quick-cooking pasta work best for this recipe.
How Do I Caramelize The Onions For This Recipe?
To caramelize onions, slice them thinly and cook them in butter or oil over medium-low heat for about 30 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The goal is to slowly break down the sugars in the onions, turning them golden brown and sweet.
What Type Of Broth Should I Use In The One Pan French Onion Soup Noodles Recipe?
For an authentic French onion soup flavor, use beef broth. However, if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well too. The broth is the base of the soup and adds much of the flavor to the dish.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Cheese?
While cheese is a traditional topping for French onion soup and adds a rich, creamy texture, you can make the recipe without it. For a dairy-free version, try adding a non-dairy cheese or skip it entirely for a lighter dish.
Can I Add Meat To The One Pan French Onion Soup Noodles Recipe?
Yes, you can add meat such as shredded chicken, beef, or even sausage to the recipe for added protein. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
How Long Will The One Pan French Onion Soup Noodles Keep In The Fridge?
The dish will keep in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. For best results, reheat gently to prevent the noodles from becoming too mushy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make the one pan French onion soup noodles ahead of time. Prepare the dish, allow it to cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a little extra broth if it seems too dry.
What Should I Serve With One Pan French Onion Soup Noodles?
This dish is hearty on its own but can be paired with a side salad, crusty bread, or a light vegetable side like roasted broccoli or green beans. A glass of red wine can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Can I Freeze The One Pan French Onion Soup Noodles?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven, adding more broth as needed to revive the texture.