Comfort French Onion Pasta Casserole

COMFORT FRENCH ONION PASTA CASSEROLE
1 (16-oz.) pkg. penne pasta
2 T. butter
1 T. olive oil
2 large onions, thinly sliced
1 c. bacon, rough chop (I used turkey bacon)
2 T. minced garlic
3 sprigs fresh thyme, extra for garnish
1 oz. Pioneer French Dip Au Jus Gravy Mix
1 (10-oz.) can Campbell’s French Onion Soup
½ c. dry white wine
1 1/3 c. heavy cream or half and half
1 ½- 2 c. shredded Gruyere cheese
Smoked paprika, garnish
Salt/black pepper

1. Preheat oven 375.
2. Prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain and return to pan.
3. In large pan, heat butter and olive oil.
4. Add onion and cook until golden brown and softened (15-20 minutes.
5. Add bacon and cook until browned.
6. Add garlic and thyme and cook for 1 minute.
7. Add soup packet and can soup to the pan. Stir to mix.
8. Add wine and simmer until reduced by half.
9. Gradually add in cream and season to taste with salt and pepper.
10. Add pasta and toss to coat.
11. Place into a baking dish, sprinkle top with shredded cheese. Sprinkle with smoked paprika.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden.
13. Garnish with extra thyme sprigs.