Description
This French Onion Mac and Cheese elevates classic comfort food with the rich, sweet flavors of caramelized onions. Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses create a decadent sauce, while a crispy breadcrumb topping adds texture. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound short-cut pasta (elbow, penne, etc.), cooked al dente
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
- 12 ounces Gruyère cheese, freshly grated
- 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for serving
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring often, until softened (10-15 minutes). Reduce heat to low-medium and cook, stirring frequently, until deeply caramelized (60-90 minutes). Add a splash of water if onions begin to burn.
- Shortcut: Add 1 teaspoon sugar, honey, or maple syrup to speed up caramelization.
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Make Roux: Transfer caramelized onions to a plate. Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, whisk in flour to make a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until golden and nutty.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Stir in nutmeg. Cook until thickened.
- Add Cheese and Onions: Stir in most of the Gruyère and Parmesan cheese (reserve some for topping) until melted. Add ¾ of the caramelized onions.
- Combine with Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well combined.
- Top and Bake: Top with remaining cheese, caramelized onions, and bread crumbs. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Sprinkle with fresh thyme and serve hot.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even caramelization.
- Adjust cooking time for the onions based on your desired level of caramelization.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
