Get ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that combines the comforting flavors of classic French onion soup and the heartiness of pasta! This French Onion Pasta Casserole is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful symphony of caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and gooey Swiss cheese that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. With just 50 minutes from prep to table, you’ll want to keep this one in your culinary repertoire. Dive into the recipe and discover how to create this irresistible casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become deeply caramelized and golden brown, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- While onions are caramelizing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until it is al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Pour beef broth into the skillet with caramelized onions. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan and let the broth simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions and broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the pasta and onion mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and top generously with shredded Swiss cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and begins to turn golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Caramelization is Key: Take your time when caramelizing the onions; the longer they cook, the sweeter and more flavorful they become. Aim for a deep golden brown color for the best results.
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like penne or rotini. This will ensure each bite is packed with flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the beef broth to simmer with the caramelized onions for a few minutes to meld the flavors together before adding the pasta.
- Customize Your Cheese: While Swiss cheese is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique twist on flavor and texture.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This will help the dish set and make serving easier.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
