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French Onion Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.1 from 29 reviews

This French Onion Mac and Cheese is a decadent, flavorful twist on classic macaroni and cheese, combining the rich, caramelized sweetness of onions with creamy Gruyere and Parmesan cheese sauce. Baked until golden and bubbly with a crunchy breadcrumb topping and fresh thyme garnish, it's a perfect comforting side dish for 12 people.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Caramelized Onions

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
  • Kosher salt and pepper, to taste

Pasta

  • 1 pound short cut pasta (such as elbow macaroni), cooked according to package directions

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ cups milk
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
  • 12 ounces Gruyere cheese, freshly grated
  • 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Topping

  • ⅓ cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • Fresh thyme for serving

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions with a generous pinch of kosher salt. Cook, stirring often, for 10 to 15 minutes until the onions soften.
  2. Continue Cooking Onions: Reduce heat to low or medium-low and cook the onions for an additional 60 to 90 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn a deep golden brown and become caramelized. If the onions begin to burn or dry out, lower the heat or add a few splashes of water to hydrate them.
  3. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce: Once the onions are caramelized, transfer most to a plate, reserving about ¼ for topping. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and nutty smelling, forming a roux.
  5. Add Milk and Seasonings: Slowly pour the milk into the roux while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, then stir in freshly ground nutmeg.
  6. Melt the Cheese: Add nearly all the grated Gruyere and Parmesan, reserving a little for topping, into the sauce. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
  7. Combine Pasta and Onions: Stir in three quarters of the caramelized onions and the cooked pasta. Toss everything together thoroughly until well combined.
  8. Assemble and Bake: Top the mac and cheese mixture with the remaining cheese and reserved caramelized onions. Sprinkle the seasoned bread crumbs evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top. Serve hot as a rich and comforting side dish.

Notes

  • To speed up caramelization, add 1 teaspoon of sugar, honey, or maple syrup to the onions while cooking, but stir often and monitor to avoid burning.
  • This recipe yields 12 servings, perfect for a large gathering or meal prep.
  • You can use other short cut pastas like shells or cavatappi if preferred.
  • Make sure to use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
  • Seasoned bread crumbs add nice texture and flavor; plain breadcrumbs with a pinch of herbs can be substituted.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French-American

Find it online: https://recipesvibe.com/french-onion-mac-and-cheese-recipe/