Description

This one-pot Creamy French Onion Orzo Bake combines all the flavors of classic French onion soup—caramelized onions, rich broth, and gooey cheese—with the creamy comfort of orzo pasta. It’s an easy, cozy side dish that’s perfect for holidays or weeknights and sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups orzo pasta (about 9 oz or 270g)
2 large yellow onions (about 1 lb or 500g), thinly sliced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
3/4 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred)
1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated (about 4 oz or 100g), divided
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (about 2 oz or 50g), divided
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring every few minutes, until onions are deep golden and soft, about 20-25 minutes. If onions start to stick, add a splash of broth or water.
Stir in minced garlic and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add orzo to the pan and stir to coat in the onion mixture. Toast for 2 minutes until some pieces are slightly golden.
Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes. Add more broth if needed.
Turn off heat. Stir in sour cream, half the Gruyère, and half the Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Sprinkle remaining Gruyère and Parmesan over the top. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For best results, caramelize onions slowly over medium-low heat. Grate your own cheese for optimal melting. If making ahead, assemble up to the baking step and refrigerate; bake when ready to serve. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and vegetarian Worcestershire or a splash of soy sauce. Gluten-free orzo works well. Let the bake rest before serving for best texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: French-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 600
Fat: 15
Saturated Fat: 9
Carbohydrates: 38
Fiber: 2
Protein: 10

Keywords: French onion, orzo bake, creamy pasta, one pot, side dish, comfort food, cheesy casserole, holiday side, easy recipe