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French Onion Mac and Cheese

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This French Onion Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food fusion, blending the rich, caramelized depth of French onion soup with the creamy indulgence of classic mac and cheese. Featuring Gruyère, cheddar, and Parmesan, plus a savory beef broth-infused onion sauce, it’s a gourmet twist on a family favorite—perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

For the macaroni:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni (or preferred pasta)

  • Salt for boiling water

For the French onion sauce:

  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (or broth)

  • 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1/2 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the cheese sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss)

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional topping:

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  • Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and sugar. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden. Add garlic and cook 1–2 more minutes.

  • Deglaze & Simmer: Pour in wine to deglaze the pan. Add broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes. Set aside.

  • Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk. Simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted. Season to taste.

  • Combine Everything: Add pasta to cheese sauce and stir. Mix in caramelized onion mixture with all its juices.

  • Optional Topping & Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

  • Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy warm.

Notes

  • Use Swiss cheese if Gruyère is unavailable.

  • Swap beef broth for veggie broth to make it vegetarian.

  • Make ahead and bake just before serving for stress-free entertaining.

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