Description
This Creamy French Onion Orzo Bake combines all the cozy flavors of classic French onion soup with creamy, cheesy orzo. Caramelized onions, rich broth, and melted Gruyère make this the ultimate comfort food side or main dish!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Onions:
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar (helps with caramelization)
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Orzo Base:
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (for richness)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Creamy Sauce:
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Step 1 – Caramelize the Onions: Heat butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and sugar. Cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 2 – Add Broth & Orzo: Once onions are caramelized, add orzo, thyme, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, and beef broth. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo begins to absorb the liquid.
- Step 3 – Stir in Cream & Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream, half of the Gruyère, and mozzarella. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Step 4 – Bake Until Golden: Top with the remaining cheese and Parmesan. Transfer skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15–20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Step 5 – Serve Hot: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme and enjoy!
Notes
💡 Pro Tip: For deeper flavor, deglaze your onions with a splash of white wine before adding the orzo. This adds a deliciously rich, French onion-style depth!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 70mg