Weeknights often demand quick yet satisfying meals, and this recipe for Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Pasta with Gruyere and Chicken delivers just that.  French onion pasta has all the delicious flavors of the classic French soup with all the robust benefits of a pasta dish. It’s a hearty dish combining rich flavors with minimal fuss, perfect for those evenings when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

French Onion Pasta Ingredients:

· 1 Large Onion Jjulienned)

· 1 Lb. Pasta of Choice (I Used Cavatappi)

· 8 Oz. Mushrooms (Sliced)

· 32 Oz. Beef Broth

· 1 Tsp. Fresh Thyme

· ½ Cup White Wine

· 4 Oz. Butter

· 8 Oz. Pulled Rotisserie Chicken

· 1 Tsp. Salt

· ½ Tsp. Black pepper

·½ Cup Gruyere Swiss Cheese

French Onion Pasta Method:

1. In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of a neutral oil and heat for 30 seconds.

2. Add sliced mushrooms and julienned onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes or until the onions start to get a bit of color.

3. Turn the heat down to low and continue to cook the onions for 40 minutes or until completely caramelized, stirring every 8-10 minutes.

4. Add beef broth and bring to a boil.

5. Add pasta, thyme, salt, pepper, and white wine to the pot and cook until almost all liquid is gone.

6. Add pulled chicken and butter and toss constantly until a velvety sauce is created.

7. Top with cheese and (optionally) throw it under your broiler on a low setting. Alternatively, you can simply top it with cheese and enjoy!

french onion pasta 4

 

Caramelizing Onions: Patience Pays Off

One key to this recipe is allowing the onions to fully caramelize. This process takes time, but the payoff is immense. Cooking the onions slowly over low heat for about 40 minutes transforms them, bringing out a deep sweetness and rich flavor that forms the backbone of this dish. Stirring occasionally prevents burning and ensures even caramelization, which adds an unparalleled depth to the overall flavor.

 

The Art of “Monter au Beurre”

The French culinary term “monter au beurre,” meaning “to mount with butter,” is a technique that applies perfectly here. By adding butter at the end of the cooking process and tossing it with the other ingredients, you create a luxurious, velvety sauce. The butter enriches the dish, giving it a smooth and creamy texture that clings beautifully to the pasta.

Classic Flavor Pairing: Mushrooms and Thyme

Mushrooms and thyme are a classic flavor pairing that elevates this pasta dish. The earthy, umami-rich mushrooms blend seamlessly with the aromatic, slightly minty thyme. This combination brings a sophisticated depth of flavor that complements the caramelized onions and tender chicken, making every bite a delight.

This Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Pasta with Gruyere and Chicken is more than just a meal; while it takes a decent amount of time to prepare, the amount of attention it requires is minimal, allowing you to tackle other tasks while it cooks. The blend of caramelized onions, savory mushrooms, aromatic thyme, and the rich, buttery sauce creates a dish that is comforting yet elegant, perfect for any weeknight. Enjoy this satisfying meal, knowing that the effort you put into each step pays off in delicious, heartwarming flavor.