French Onion Pasta Bake

French Onion Pasta Bake combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with hearty pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying dish. Caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted Gruyère cheese envelop pasta in a creamy sauce, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup dry white wine (optional; substitute with additional beef broth if preferred)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 12 ounces (about 340g) rigatoni or other short pasta, cooked al dente
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Caramelize the Onions:
   • In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
   • To aid in caramelization, you may add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of sugar (optional).
2. Add Aromatics:
   • Stir in the butter, allowing it to melt.
   • Add the minced garlic and thyme; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Create the Sauce:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux; cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
   • Slowly pour in the white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; simmer until the wine reduces by half.
   • Add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
   • Stir in the heavy cream; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine with Pasta:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to ensure the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
   • If the skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
   • Transfer the skillet or baking dish to the preheated oven; bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • For a golden-brown crust, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
6. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
   • Serve hot and enjoy!

This French Onion Pasta Bake offers a delightful twist on the classic soup, providing a hearty and flavorful meal that’s sure to please. The combination of caramelized onions, creamy sauce, and melted cheese makes this dish a comforting favorite for any dinner table.

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