French Onion Beef and Pasta Casserole: Melty, Hearty, and Packed with Flavor

Introduction

If your ideal dinner includes melty cheese, rich flavor, and pasta that satisfies every craving—this French Onion Beef and Pasta Casserole is calling your name. It brings the sweet depth of caramelized onions and savory ground beef into a one-pan, oven-baked masterpiece that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy Sunday evenings. It’s everything you love about French onion soup, but turned into a creamy, cheesy pasta bake.

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Why I Love This Recipe

This casserole hits all the right notes: bold, beefy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting. Caramelizing onions takes a little time, but it builds a rich base that gives the dish restaurant-level depth. Swiss cheese adds creamy tang, while Parmesan gives it that sharp, golden topping. Best of all, it’s a full meal in one dish—protein, carbs, and soul-soothing flavor in every bite.

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Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini work great)
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or crispy fried onions, for garnish

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Ingredient Notes & Swaps

• Beef: Ground turkey or ground chicken also work well for a leaner option.
• Cheese: Gruyère can replace Swiss for a stronger, more classic French onion flavor.
• Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth and adjust salt to your taste.
• Toppings: For texture and flavor, top with crispy fried onions before serving.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 casserole dish.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced onions and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and caramelized.
3. Cook the Beef:
   • Add ground beef to the onions and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
   • Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook 1 more minute.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
   • Add Worcestershire sauce and beef broth.
   • Simmer for 5 minutes to deepen flavor and slightly reduce the liquid.
5. Cook the Pasta:
   • While the sauce simmers, cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
   • In the prepared dish, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and onion mixture.
   • Stir in shredded Swiss cheese and toss to combine.
7. Top and Bake:
   • Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
   • Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   • Top with chopped parsley or crispy fried onions just before serving.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t rush the onions: True caramelization adds unmatched flavor—worth every minute.
• Drain beef if needed: If your beef is very fatty, drain before adding broth.
• Prep ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve this hearty casserole with a fresh side or bold appetizer like:

• Dorito Casserole for a spicy, cheesy sidekick
• Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole to round out a casserole-loving spread
• Easy Turkey Wings for added Southern soul
• One-Pan Breakfast Bake if you’re turning this into a full brunch buffet
• Beer Cheese Dip to kick off the meal with something creamy and craveable

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Storage & Leftovers

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a casserole-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual servings.

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More Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re into cheesy casseroles and warm, hearty dinners, don’t miss:

• Dorito Casserole
• Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole
• One-Pan Breakfast Bake
• Easy Turkey Wings
• Beer Cheese Dip

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Final Thoughts

This French Onion Beef and Pasta Casserole is a savory twist on the beloved soup—with the bonus of pasta and a bubbly cheese topping. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor from the first forkful to the last. Whether you’re feeding a family or planning your next cozy night in, this dish hits the spot every single time.

Tried it? Snap a photo and tag @chefmaniac—we’d love to see how yours turned out! And be sure to follow for more comfort food classics and cozy kitchen favorites.