In the heart of the Midwest, where the winters are long and the fields stretch as far as the eye can see, comfort food is more than just a meal—it's a way of life. This French onion beef and pasta casserole is a dish that brings together the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions and tender beef, all nestled in a bed of pasta. It's a recipe that harks back to simpler times, when families gathered around the kitchen table to share stories and laughter. This casserole is perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something hearty and warming. It's a dish that reminds me of my grandmother's kitchen, where the smell of onions cooking low and slow was a promise of good things to come.

This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, dressed simply with olive oil and vinegar, to balance the richness of the dish. A side of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of the savory sauce. And if you're feeling indulgent, a glass of red wine will complement the flavors wonderfully. For dessert, consider a light fruit sorbet to cleanse the palate.

Servings: 6

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions, thinly sliced
1 pound ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 cups beef broth
8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well)
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or fried French onions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 20 minutes.

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.

Add the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and onion mixture. Stir in the Swiss cheese.

Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with chopped parsley or fried French onions before serving.

For a different twist, try using Gruyère cheese instead of Swiss for a nuttier flavor. You can also add sliced mushrooms to the onion mixture for an earthy depth. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added along with the garlic. For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef and use whole wheat pasta.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove