French Onion Mac and Cheese Recipe

This French Onion Mac and Cheese is a sophisticated twist on a classic comfort food. Sweet, caramelized onions are folded into a creamy, Gruyere and Parmesan cheese sauce, then baked to bubbly perfection. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this French Onion Mac and Cheese:

• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, used for caramelizing the onions.
• Large Sweet Onions: 4, thinly sliced, provides the sweet and savory base of the dish.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhances the flavors of the dish.
• Short Cut Pasta: 1 pound, cooked, provides the base of the mac and cheese.
• Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons, used to create a roux for the cheese sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: ¼ cup, thickens the cheese sauce.
• Milk: 2 ½ cups, forms the base of the cheese sauce.
• Freshly Ground Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon, adds a warm and subtle spice.
• Gruyere Cheese: 12 ounces, freshly grated, adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: 4 ounces, freshly grated, adds a sharp and salty flavor.
• Seasoned Bread Crumbs: ⅓ cup, adds a crunchy topping.
• Fresh Thyme: For serving, adds a fresh and herbaceous garnish.

How to Make French Onion Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the onions soften, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low or medium-low and continue to cook, stirring often, for 60-90 minutes, until the onions are golden and caramelized.
5. If the onions start to burn, reduce the heat or add a splash of water.
6. Transfer the caramelized onions to a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil the pasta according to the package directions.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Add the butter to the skillet and melt over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until golden and fragrant.
3. Slowly stream in the milk while whisking constantly, allowing the sauce to thicken.
4. Stir in the nutmeg.
5. Stir in most of the Gruyere and Parmesan cheese (reserve some for topping) until melted.
6. Add ¾ of the caramelized onions and stir in the cooked pasta. Toss until well combined.

Step 4: Bake the Mac and Cheese

1. Top with the remaining cheese and caramelized onions.
2. Sprinkle with seasoned bread crumbs.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh thyme.
2. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Main course: Serve this mac and cheese as a hearty and satisfying main course.
• Side dish: Pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead

• You can caramelize the onions ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.
• You can also prepare the cheese sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them before baking.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating

• Reheat the mac and cheese in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

• Yes, you can use other short cut pasta shapes, such as penne, shells, or rotini.

Can I add other ingredients to the sauce?

• Yes, you can add other ingredients, such as cooked bacon, ham, or mushrooms.

Can I freeze this mac and cheese?

• Yes, you can freeze it, but the texture may change slightly after thawing.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free bread crumbs.

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