Creamy French Onion Pasta Casserole
Creamy French Onion Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with creamy goodness and pasta. Perfect for chilly evenings, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a warm, inviting meal that brings family and friends together. With its golden, gooey cheese topping and mouthwatering aroma, this casserole not only satisfies cravings but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil salted water in a large pot for the pasta.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add sliced onions. Cook until golden brown and caramelized (15-20 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream, salt, pepper, and thyme to the onion mixture; simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with grated cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Substitute different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for varied flavor profiles. For a vegetarian version, add extra veggies such as spinach or mushrooms. Allow the casserole to rest before serving to enhance flavor.