Ingredients
2 tbsp. butter
1 large onion, thinly sliced
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp. fresh thyme leaves, plus more for garnish
1 packet French onion soup mix (such as Lipton’s)
1 lb. penne pasta
2 c. beef broth
2 c. water
1/4 c. heavy cream
1 1/2 c. shredded Gruyère
Preparation
Step 1In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt butter. Add onions and caramelize, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden, 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Step 2Add garlic, thyme, and French onion soup mix to pot and stir until garlic is fragrant, 1 minute.Step 3Add penne, beef broth, and water and bring to a boil, then let simmer until penne is al dente and most liquid is absorbed (it should be saucy), 18 to 20 minutes.Step 4Add heavy cream and 1 cup gruyère and stir until cheese is melted.Step 5Serve as is, or serve like French onion soup: Heat broiler. Transfer pasta to oven-safe bowls or ramekins and top with remaining gruyère. Broil until cheese is melted, 1 to 2 minutes, then garnish with more thyme and serve immediately.
