Best-Ever French Onion Pasta Bake

Best-Ever French Onion Pasta Bake that combines the savory flavors of French onion soup with cheesy pasta in a baked casserole.

Ingredients:

For the pasta bake:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta shape)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Caramelize the onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, until the onions are soft, golden, and caramelized. Add the sugar during the cooking process to help with the caramelization. Once the onions are caramelized, stir in the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Make the sauce: Add the beef broth to the onions and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
4. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the onion sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Add the Gruyère cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese, and mix until the cheese has melted and everything is well combined.
5. Assemble the bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the pasta.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

This Best-Ever French Onion Pasta Bake is creamy, cheesy, and packed with that classic French onion flavor. It’s a comfort food dish that’s perfect for dinner or special occasions! Enjoy!