Description
This French Onion Pasta Bake combines the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese with tender pasta for a comforting and elegant one-dish meal. Featuring a creamy beef broth and heavy cream sauce, it’s baked to bubbling perfection with a golden, cheesy crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Bake Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large pan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become deeply golden and caramelized, about 25-30 minutes. This step builds the rich flavor base of the dish.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the caramelized onions and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir and let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to reduce slightly and meld the flavors together.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the onion sauce and toss well to ensure every piece is coated. Season with salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme if using.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded Gruyère (or mozzarella) and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This pasta bake is perfect as a comforting main course.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth.
- Use Gruyère for a classic French flavor; mozzarella can be used for a milder taste.
- If you prefer a richer dish, add extra cheese or a splash more cream.
- Make sure to caramelize the onions slowly to develop deep flavor without burning.
- Fresh thyme is optional but adds a lovely herbal note.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time, assembled, and baked just before serving.
