Description
French Onion Mac & Cheese combines deeply caramelized onions with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta, inspired by classic French onion soup flavors. This indulgent comfort food is perfect for cozy dinners or as a special side dish.
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Onions
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
For the Mac & Cheese Sauce
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, for 25–30 minutes until onions are deeply caramelized. Stir in fresh thyme and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni or cavatappi according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, continuing to cook and stir until the sauce thickens. Season with the remaining salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Add the Cheeses: Stir in the Gruyère and sharp cheddar cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Onions: Add the cooked pasta and caramelized onions to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm immediately for maximum creaminess.
Notes
- For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Gruyère cheese provides the classic French onion flavor, but Swiss cheese can be substituted if preferred.
- This dish is best served immediately to retain its creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-American
