French Onion Soup Casserole Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the onion mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in sherry, Dijon mustard, and butter.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour and half-and-half until smooth.
7. Pour the half-and-half mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Remove from heat and stir in Gruyere cheese.
9. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs. Drizzle with melted butter.
10. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Temperature: 375 degrees F
Serving Size: 6-8

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 463
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 22g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.
- Gruyere cheese can be substituted with Swiss cheese.
- Half-and-half can be substituted with whole milk.

Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the casserole for a heartier dish.
- Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms to the casserole for extra flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Use a sharp knife to thinly slice the onions for the best flavor.
- Use a good quality beef broth for the best flavor.

Storage Instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the casserole with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad.

Garnishes:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives.

Pairings:
Pair with a dry white wine or a light red wine.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the casserole is too dry, add a bit more beef broth or half-and-half.
- If the casserole is too wet, add a bit more bread crumbs.

Food Safety Advice:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly.

Food History:
French onion soup is a classic French dish that dates back to the 18th century. It was traditionally served as a first course, but has since become a popular main dish.

Flavor Profiles:
This casserole has a rich and savory flavor with a hint of sweetness from the onions.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad.

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Taste: Savory, Oniony, Rich, Comforting, Herbaceous