Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

French Onion Orzo Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 112 reviews
  • Author: Lily
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

French Onion Orzo Bake is a comforting, creamy casserole featuring slowly caramelized onions, tender orzo pasta, and a rich blend of cheeses. This dish layers savory flavors from butter, garlic, thyme, and broth, finished with a golden, bubbly cheese crust, making it an irresistible twist on classic French onion flavors in a creamy pasta bake.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo and Broth

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 4 cups beef or vegetable broth

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra for garnish

Fats

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Dairy

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Other

  • Salt, to taste
  • Optional: splash of white wine or extra broth for deglazing

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally until the onions are deeply golden and soft, which can take about 30 to 40 minutes. This slow cooking develops the sweet, rich flavor essential to the dish.
  2. Add garlic and thyme: In the last few minutes of caramelizing, stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Deglaze the pan: Pour in a splash of white wine or a little broth to lift browned bits from the pan. Scrape the bottom thoroughly with a wooden spoon to incorporate this flavorful fond into the mixture.
  4. Add orzo and broth: Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is nearly tender but still al dente.
  5. Add cream and cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream along with most of the grated Gruyère (or Swiss) and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
  6. Bake until bubbly: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Transfer the skillet (if not already oven-safe, transfer to a baking dish) into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
  7. Broil for a golden top (optional): For an extra cheesy crust, broil the bake for 2-3 minutes until the top is deeply golden and crisp. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Let rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with additional thyme or chopped parsley before serving for a fresh, fragrant finish.

Notes

  • Slow caramelization of onions is key to developing rich flavor and natural sweetness, do not rush.
  • Use beef broth for a traditional French onion flavor or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • Gruyère cheese provides a nutty, creamy melt, but Swiss cheese is a fine substitute.
  • Broiling is optional but enhances the texture and appearance with a beautifully browned cheese crust.
  • This dish can be prepared ahead by stopping before baking; cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French-inspired

Keywords: French Onion, Orzo Bake, Caramelized Onions, Creamy Pasta Casserole, Gruyère Cheese, Oven-baked

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://flavorbylily.com/french-onion-orzo-bake-recipe/