Ingredients:
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup white wine
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- 12 oz pasta (fusilli or campanelle work well)
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt, stirring to coat the onions in the butter.
- Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes until they caramelize and turn a deep golden brown.
- Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Cook until most of the wine has evaporated, about 5 minutes.
- Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- While the broth simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Remove the bay leaf from the broth, then stir in the cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the pasta and broth in bowls, topping with shredded Gruyère cheese. For a melted, golden topping, broil briefly until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Variations:
- Cheese Alternatives: Use shredded mozzarella, fontina, or Parmesan for a different cheesy flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef broth with vegetable broth and add sautéed mushrooms for a rich texture.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with rosemary, sage, or oregano instead of thyme.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with apple cider or additional broth with a splash of vinegar for acidity.
- Meaty Addition: Add cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or bacon for extra protein.
Tips for Success:
- Caramelization Patience: Don’t rush the onions; slow cooking is key to their rich flavor.
- Choose the Right Pasta: Use pasta with ridges or curls to hold the flavorful broth.
- Gruyère Quality: Opt for high-quality Gruyère for its nutty, creamy flavor.
- Make Ahead: Caramelize onions in advance and refrigerate or freeze for quicker meal prep.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.