French Onion Baked Lentils and Farro

Golden, bubbling, and full of deep savory comfort, this French Onion Baked Lentils and Farro dish brings together everything you love about a warm hug in food form. Imagine the richness of caramelized onions folded into nutty farro and earthy lentils, all topped with melty, golden gruyère that stretches with every spoonful. It’s cozy, hearty, and perfect for those nights when only something oven-baked and deeply satisfying will do.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe came from a craving for French onion soup but with a twist that felt more like a meal than a starter. I wanted something that could sit in the center of the table and command attention, yet still feel humble and homey. Enter lentils and farro, which bring in that hearty, filling goodness, and soak up all the rich broth and onion flavor like little sponges of happiness. The first time I made it, it barely made it to the dinner table before we started digging in straight from the skillet.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

French onion soup is a beloved classic in French cuisine, traditionally made with slow-cooked onions, beef broth, and a thick slice of bread with melted cheese on top. Its origins date back to Roman times but it became a staple of French comfort food in the 18th century. This version pays homage to that iconic dish but turns it into a vegetarian-friendly baked casserole that uses fiber-rich lentils and chewy farro in place of bread, all while keeping the signature flavors intact.

Why You’ll Love French Onion Baked Lentils and Farro

There’s something about the smell of caramelized onions and melted cheese that feels like a warm welcome home. Here’s why this dish is a keeper:

Versatile: Serve it as a main dish, a hearty side, or even pack it for lunch. It fits any moment.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples like lentils, farro, and onions, it’s easy on the wallet.

Quick and Easy: Most of the cooking is hands-off once it’s in the oven. Let the heat do the work.

Customizable: Add mushrooms, swap the cheese, or throw in herbs you love. It’s very forgiving.

Crowd-Pleasing: Rich, savory, and cheesy — everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep and assemble it in advance, then just bake when ready.

Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully and might even taste better the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Getting the most out of this dish comes down to a few key details:

• Caramelize low and slow: Don’t rush the onions. Let them turn deep golden to build that rich flavor base.
• Use a brothy bake: Make sure your lentils and farro are well soaked in broth before baking so they don’t dry out.
• Shred cheese fresh: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as beautifully as the freshly grated kind.
• Finish under the broiler: For that bubbly, golden cheese top, a few minutes under the broiler does wonders.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for 5 to 10 minutes after baking so the flavors settle and slices hold together.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy here — just the basics.

Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: Ideal for caramelizing onions and transferring directly to the oven.

Chef’s Knife: For slicing onions and prepping herbs.

Cutting Board: A sturdy one for all your chopping needs.

Wooden Spoon: Helps stir those onions gently as they caramelize.

Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision is key for broth, grains, and seasonings.

Grater: For fresh gruyère cheese.

Ingredients in French Onion Baked Lentils and Farro

Everything in this recipe works together to layer flavors and create comfort in every bite.

1. Dry Green or Brown Lentils: 1 cup – They hold their shape beautifully and soak up the broth.
2. Farro: 1 cup – Adds a chewy, nutty texture that pairs perfectly with the soft lentils.
3. Yellow Onions: 3 large, thinly sliced – The star of the show. Caramelized to a rich golden brown.
4. Garlic Cloves: 3, minced – Adds a savory punch to balance the sweetness of onions.
5. Vegetable Broth: 4 cups – Infuses the grains with deep flavor and moisture.
6. Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons – Used to gently caramelize the onions and build flavor.
7. Balsamic Vinegar: 1 tablespoon – Adds a touch of acidity to enhance the onion flavor.
8. Fresh Thyme: 1 teaspoon, chopped – Adds herbal brightness.
9. Bay Leaves: 2 – For a subtle layer of earthy aroma.
10. Shredded Gruyère Cheese: 1 ½ cups – Melts beautifully with a nutty, buttery finish.
11. Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste – Brings all the flavors together.
12. Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground – Adds gentle warmth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to make a few swaps? No problem.

Lentils: Use canned lentils (drained) for faster prep.

Farro: Substitute with pearl barley or brown rice.

Gruyère Cheese: Swiss or mozzarella also work well.

Vegetable Broth: Mushroom broth brings even more umami.

Fresh Thyme: Use ½ teaspoon dried thyme if needed.

Ingredient Spotlight

Gruyère Cheese: Known for its nutty, creamy taste, it’s a key player in French onion dishes and melts like a dream.

Farro: An ancient grain that adds hearty chew and a nutty richness that holds up beautifully in baked dishes.

Instructions for Making French Onion Baked Lentils and Farro

Let’s get into it — here are the steps you’ll follow to bring this cozy dish to life.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large pot or skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring often, for 25 to 30 minutes until deeply caramelized. Add garlic, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Stir in the dry lentils, farro, thyme, and bay leaves. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Transfer everything to your greased baking dish if not using an oven-safe skillet. Sprinkle the shredded gruyère evenly over the top.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
6. Finishing Touches:
   For an extra golden crust, place under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired, and serve warm.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The contrast is everything here. The tender lentils and chewy farro provide body, while the onions bring a silky, jammy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the deep savoriness of the broth. The melted gruyère on top creates a gooey, stretchy crown that adds richness and pulls it all together.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

You’ve got this — just keep these in mind:

• Use a mandoline for even onion slices if you have one.
• Stir onions regularly so they don’t stick or burn.
• Taste and adjust broth seasoning before baking.
• Add a splash of broth if the dish looks too dry after baking.

What to Avoid

These small missteps can impact your final dish, but they’re easy to avoid:

• Skipping the onion caramelization: This is where the flavor builds. Don’t rush it.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: It won’t melt as nicely and lacks the creaminess.
• Dry grains: Always ensure enough broth covers everything before baking.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 390

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is ideal for prepping ahead. You can fully assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and you can freeze it in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

How to Serve French Onion Baked Lentils and Farro

Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread to round out the meal. It also pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a glass of sparkling water with lemon. You can even serve it alongside a roast or grilled protein for a more elaborate spread.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Got leftovers? Try one of these:

• Stuffed Peppers: Use the filling to stuff bell peppers and bake with extra cheese.
• Savory Hand Pies: Wrap leftovers in puff pastry and bake until golden.
• Soup Base: Add more broth to turn it into a hearty soup.

Additional Tips

• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of soy sauce for extra depth.
• Let the dish cool slightly before serving for better texture.
• Use a deep baking dish to avoid bubbling over in the oven.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve it in a white enameled cast iron dish, sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving, and place it on a wooden board for that rustic, cozy table vibe. A few candles and a linen napkin wouldn’t hurt either.

Variations to Try

• Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms with the onions for even more umami.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and skip the broiler step.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the onion mix.
• Italian Twist: Add oregano, basil, and mozzarella.
• Crispy Topping: Add breadcrumbs or crushed croutons on top before baking.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, just reduce the broth slightly and skip the simmering step.

Q2: Is it freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Cool completely, then portion and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q3: What if I don’t have gruyère?

Swiss, fontina, or even sharp white cheddar work well.

Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, swap farro for brown rice or quinoa.

Q5: Do I need to soak the lentils or farro?

No soaking needed, just rinse them well before use.

Q6: Can I use red onions?

You can, though they’ll give a slightly different flavor and color.

Q7: What kind of dish should I bake it in?

A deep oven-safe skillet or casserole dish works best.

Q8: Is this spicy?

Not at all. Feel free to add chili flakes if you want heat.

Q9: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and increase cook time slightly.

Q10: What can I serve it with?

A fresh salad, roasted veggies, or even a light soup work great.

Conclusion

French Onion Baked Lentils and Farro is the kind of dish you’ll crave again and again. It’s cozy, hearty, full of deep savory notes, and just fancy enough to make a weeknight feel special. Whether you’re feeding your family or just treating yourself, trust me, it’s worth every bite.

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