Best-Ever French Onion Pasta Bake šŸ§…šŸāœØ

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  1. In a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, melt theĀ butterĀ over medium heat.
  2. Add theĀ sliced onionsĀ and cook, stirring occasionally, forĀ 15ā€“20 minutesĀ until softened and golden brown.
  3. Stir in theĀ garlic,Ā sugar, andĀ salt, cooking for an additionalĀ 2ā€“3 minutesĀ until fragrant.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

  1. Pour in theĀ white wineĀ to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  2. Simmer forĀ 3ā€“5 minutesĀ until the wine reduces slightly.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

  1. Add theĀ beef broth,Ā thyme, andĀ bay leafĀ to the onions.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered forĀ 10ā€“15 minutesĀ to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

  1. While the sauce simmers, cook theĀ pastaĀ in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta, reservingĀ 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  1. Remove the bay leaf from the sauce.
  2. Toss the cooked pasta into the onion sauce, stirring to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

  1. Stir inĀ half of the shredded GruyĆØre cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.
  2. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining GruyĆØre cheese.

Step 7: Bake

  1. Preheat your oven toĀ 375Ā°F (190Ā°C).
  2. Bake the dish forĀ 10ā€“15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

  1. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
  2. Garnish withĀ chopped parsley, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Why Youā€™ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Flavorful:Ā The caramelized onions and beef broth provide a deep, savory flavor.
  • Cheesy Goodness:Ā GruyĆØre adds a creamy, nutty finish that pairs perfectly with the pasta.
  • Comfort Food Classic:Ā Combines the best of French onion soup and a hearty pasta dish.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Perfect Caramelization:Ā Be patient when cooking the onions; low and slow yields the best flavor.
  2. Customize Cheese:Ā Swap GruyĆØre for Swiss or Fontina if you prefer.
  3. Make Ahead:Ā Caramelize the onions and build the sauce in advance to save time.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate:Ā Store leftovers in an airtight container for up toĀ 3 days.
  • Reheat:Ā Warm in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

This French Onion Pasta BakeĀ is truly irresistible, combining the luxurious flavors of a classic soup with the satisfying texture of pasta. A recipe youā€™ll want to make again and again! šŸ§…šŸāœØ

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