Description

French Onion Orzo Bake combines the sweet, deeply caramelized flavors of French onion soup with tender orzo pasta in a creamy, cheesy casserole. Slow-cooked onions marry with aromatic thyme, garlic, and savory broth, then baked with Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses for a cozy, comforting meal perfect for chilly days or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 cup dry orzo pasta
2 cups beef broth, low sodium preferred
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese or Swiss cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish

Fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter with olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until deeply golden and caramelized. This slow cooking process develops rich, sweet flavor that forms the dish’s base.
Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then deglaze the pan by adding the balsamic vinegar, scraping to lift browned bits, incorporating extra depth to the flavor.
Add Orzo and Liquids: Stir in the dry orzo pasta, then pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat slightly. Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is mostly tender and the liquid nearly absorbed, resulting in a creamy texture.
Add Cheese: Stir in half of the Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses, mixing well to melt and incorporate. Then sprinkle the remaining Gruyère, mozzarella, and all the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the skillet mixture.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

Use small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini as alternatives to orzo; adjust cooking times accordingly.
This dish can be prepared ahead to the stovetop stage, refrigerated, then baked when ready.
For a vegetarian version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and ensure cheeses are vegetarian-friendly.
Freeze leftovers wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and reheat with a splash of broth or cream.
Add proteins like shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed ground beef for a heartier meal.
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms with onions to enhance umami depth.
Use gluten-free orzo or riced cauliflower for a gluten-free or low-carb variation.
Stir in leafy greens such as spinach or kale before baking for added nutrition.
Add red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop with cream or broth to loosen sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French-inspired

Keywords: French onion, orzo bake, creamy pasta casserole, caramelized onions, comfort food, vegetarian pasta bake, cheesy pasta