Description
French Onion Macaroni with Cheese is a rich and indulgent fusion of caramelized onions and creamy mac and cheese, topped with crispy breadcrumbs for the ultimate comfort dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz macaroni or elbow pasta
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (divided)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and deeply caramelized (30-40 minutes). Stir in garlic, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the broth, scraping up browned bits. Let simmer until most of the liquid evaporates.
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Stir in Gruyère, cheddar, and half of the Parmesan. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Combine: Mix caramelized onions and cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat.
- Prepare the Topping: Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and remaining Parmesan.
- Bake: Transfer mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with the breadcrumb mixture, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For added protein, mix in crispy bacon, rotisserie chicken, or diced ham.
- Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and adding sautéed mushrooms.
- Add a spicy kick with cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
- Try different cheeses like Swiss, Fontina, or mozzarella for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French
Keywords: French onion mac and cheese, caramelized onion mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food