A quick, savory, and ultra-cheesy twist on classic 2-minute noodles with rich French onion flavor! This dish takes the convenience of instant noodles and transforms it into something special with caramelized onions, a creamy cheesy sauce, and a touch of fresh herbs.

Ingredients

1 packet instant noodles (discard seasoning)

1 tbsp butter

1/2 small onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup beef broth

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp onion powder

1/2 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or cheddar)

1 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Salt & pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until they are golden and caramelized, about 5 minutes.

Pour in the beef broth, garlic powder, and onion powder, then simmer for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Stir in the heavy cream if using, then add half the shredded cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.

Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss to coat them evenly with the sauce.

Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and let it melt before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 1 person and takes about 10-12 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner when I’m short on time but still craving something tasty and comforting.

Variations

I often switch up the cheese depending on what I have—Gruyère gives it a nice nutty flavor, Swiss adds a mild creaminess, and cheddar gives it a sharper bite. For a vegetarian version, I swap the beef broth for vegetable broth and it still tastes amazing. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of white wine to the sauce also adds an interesting depth.

Storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I add a splash of broth or water and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the noodles from drying out. The cheese might thicken when cold but loosens up nicely when reheated.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodles?

Yes, you can use any quick-cooking noodles like ramen, rice noodles, or even spaghetti if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

Vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce works well to keep the flavor savory.

Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan butter, vegetable broth, and a plant-based cheese alternative. You might also skip the heavy cream or use coconut cream.

Is the heavy cream necessary?

No, it’s optional. I use it for extra creaminess, but the cheese and broth alone make a delicious sauce.

How do I get the onions caramelized quickly?

Keep the heat medium and stir frequently. Thinly slicing the onions helps them cook and caramelize faster.

Conclusion

This Cheesy French Onion 2-Minute Noodles recipe is my go-to for a fast, comforting meal with a gourmet twist. The blend of caramelized onions, savory broth, and melted cheese creates a rich, satisfying dish in no time. Whether I’m looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes without any fuss.

Cheesy French Onion 2-Minute Noodles

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Variations

Storage/reheating