What cheese works best for this pasta?

Gruyère is ideal for its nutty flavor, but sharp white cheddar or even mozzarella can work well.

Can I use chicken or vegetable stock instead of beef stock?

Absolutely. Both chicken and vegetable stock make great substitutes and still deliver deep flavor.

One-Pot Caramelized French Onion Pasta Bake

Name: One-Pot Caramelized French Onion Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Rigatoni pasta; Butter; Olive oil; Yellow onions, sliced; Garlic cloves, minced; Fresh thyme, chopped; Salt; Black pepper; Dried oregano; Dried rosemary; Cooking wine; Worcestershire sauce; Balsamic glaze or vinegar (optional); Beef stock; Water; Heavy cream, room temp; Gruyère cheese or sharp white cheddar, grated

Cozy, cheesy one-pot French onion pasta loaded with caramelized onions, herbs, and Gruyère. A comforting dinner that tastes like French onion soup in pasta form.

One-Pot Caramelized French Onion Pasta Bake 🧅🧀

If you love French onion soup, imagine it transformed into a cozy, cheesy pasta bake—welcome to One-Pot Caramelized French Onion Pasta Bake. This dish is pure comfort food, combining sweet caramelized onions, fragrant herbs, and melty Gruyère in one skillet. The best part? Everything comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. ✨

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

One-Pot Magic – Cook pasta and sauce together for fewer dishes.
French Onion Flavors – Caramelized onions add depth and sweetness.
Cheesy Comfort – Gruyère (or cheddar) gives a golden, bubbly finish.
Flexible & Adaptable – Swap stocks, adjust herbs, or make it vegetarian.

This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings, date nights, or whenever you crave a big bowl of creamy, savory pasta that feels restaurant-worthy at home.

Caramelizing the Onions – The Secret to Flavor 🍳

The key to this dish is slow-cooked caramelized onions. Don’t rush this step—it’s where all the flavor builds. Cooking them low and slow until golden ensures your pasta will taste just like a classic French onion soup.

Tips & Variations 💡

Low & Slow – Take your time with the onions; it’s worth it.
Cheese Options – Try Gruyère for authentic flavor, but cheddar or mozzarella work too.
Stock Swaps – Use beef stock for richness, or chicken/vegetable stock for a lighter touch.
Make It Vegetarian – Skip Worcestershire sauce or use a vegan alternative.

Serving Ideas 🍽️

Serve this bubbling pasta straight from the skillet with a side of crusty bread to mop up the sauce. Pair it with a simple green salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness.

Reader Love 💬

“I made this with Vidalia onions and it was amazing. Definitely making again!” – Kaitfromscratch ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Can I sub beef stock with chicken stock instead?” – notkneenah
“Wondering if adding tofu for protein would work here?” – Ernie12344
“PLS SEND ME A PLATEEE 😭😍 this looks too good.” – Lily

FAQs ❓

Can I make this without wine?
Yes! Try apple cider vinegar, white grape juice, or just add extra stock.

What cheese works best?
Gruyère for that nutty depth, but cheddar or mozzarella are great swaps.

Can I use chicken or vegetable stock instead?
Absolutely, both add flavor while keeping it lighter.

How do I make this vegetarian?
Use vegetable stock and swap Worcestershire for a vegetarian alternative.

This One-Pot Caramelized French Onion Pasta Bake is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. Cozy, gooey, and full of flavor—it’s comfort food done right. 🥘✨