French Onion Mac and Cheese

When I first created this French Onion Mac and Cheese, I was looking for a way to combine two of my favorite comfort foods. The rich, savory flavor of caramelized onions mingling with creamy cheese and tender pasta is nothing short of a hug in a bowl. I remember a chilly fall evening, the aroma of onions slowly caramelizing filling my kitchen, and it felt like the perfect moment to indulge in something special. This dish not only warms the body but also warms the soul, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring alone while wrapped in a cozy blanket.

Shopping List for French Onion Mac and Cheese

Choosing the right ingredients is key to making the best French Onion Mac and Cheese. Each component plays a vital role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture. The star ingredients include sweet onions for their natural sweetness, gruyere cheese for its meltability and flavor, and pasta that binds it all together. Together, these ingredients create a delightful harmony that’s sure to please any palate.

• 3 tablespoons olive oil – Used for sautéing the onions to bring out their natural sweetness.
• 4 large sweet onions, thinly sliced – The foundation of the flavor, they caramelize beautifully.
• Kosher salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the dish to perfection.
• 1 pound short cut pasta, cooked – Acts as the base of the dish, providing substance.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – For making a roux, adding richness to the cheese sauce.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the cheese sauce for a creamy texture.
• 2 ½ cups milk – Creates the creamy base for the cheese sauce.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg – A hint of spice that complements the cheeses wonderfully.
• 12 ounces gruyere cheese, freshly grated – Adds a nutty flavor and gooey texture when melted.
• 4 ounces parmesan cheese, freshly grated – Provides a sharp contrast to the gruyere.
• ⅓ cup seasoned bread crumbs – Adds a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
• Fresh thyme, for serving – A lovely garnish that freshens up the dish.

Cooking Instructions for French Onion Mac and Cheese

Cooking this French Onion Mac and Cheese is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that feels special yet is easy to make. Let’s dive in!

1. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions along with a big pinch of kosher salt. Stir to combine, ensuring the onions are coated in the oil. This will help them soften and caramelize.
2. Cook the onions over medium heat, stirring often. After about 10 to 15 minutes, they should start to become tender. You want them to turn a beautiful golden color, becoming sweet and caramelized.
3. Once the onions are softened, reduce the heat to low or medium-low. Continue cooking the onions for an additional 60 to 90 minutes. Stir them often, and if they begin to brown too much, add a splash of water to keep them hydrated. You’re aiming for a deep caramel color.
4. While the onions are caramelizing, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. In another pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the short cut pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. When the onions reach a golden and caramelized state, transfer them to a plate. This step is important because you will want to keep them aside while making your cheese sauce.
6. In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns golden and starts to smell nutty.
7. Slowly stream in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens. This creamy base is what makes the dish so heavenly.
8. Add in the freshly ground nutmeg, then gradually stir in most of the grated gruyere cheese until it melts and combines smoothly into the sauce.
9. Stir in about three-quarters of the caramelized onions and the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until each piece of pasta is coated in that luscious cheese sauce.
10. Transfer this delicious mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and onions on top, followed by the seasoned bread crumbs for that perfect crunch.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. The top should be crispy while the inside remains creamy.
12. Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh thyme before serving. Trust me, this adds a beautiful freshness!

Helpful Hints

To make your cooking experience even smoother, here are some helpful tips for making French Onion Mac and Cheese.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish before baking. Just thaw and then bake it when you’re ready.
• Pairing: Serve with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the cheese sauce and caramelize the onions ahead of time and assemble later.
• Garnishing: Consider adding crispy onions or herbs for a different texture.

How to Serve French Onion Mac and Cheese

Serving your French Onion Mac and Cheese can transform a simple meal into something special. Here are some ideas on how to present it:

• Family Style: Serve it warm right from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style dining experience.
• Individual Portions: Portion out servings in bowls for a more elegant presentation.
• With a Salad: A side of fresh greens dressed lightly with vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• On Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for gatherings and can easily become the star of your holiday dinner table.
• Garnished: Don’t forget to sprinkle extra thyme or even some crispy fried onions on top for a flavorful touch.
• Warm Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping, making for a truly comforting meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

This French Onion Mac and Cheese is a delightful dish that combines two classic favorites into one comforting meal. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and satisfying crunch make it a standout on any table. I encourage you to try making this dish—it’s sure to become a favorite in your home, perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions!

French Onion Mac and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food, French Onion Mac and Cheese combines creamy pasta with sweet caramelized onions and gooey melted cheese. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for cozy nights or special gatherings. You won't be able to resist its rich, savory flavors—make it tonight!

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Prep Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 4 large Sweet Onions thinly sliced
• to taste Kosher Salt
• to taste Pepper
• 1 pound Short Cut Pasta cooked
• 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
• ⅓ cup Seasoned Bread Crumbs
• Fresh Thyme for serving

Equipment

• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Grater
• Baking Sheet
• Food Processor
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Large Pot

Method

 

1. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions along with a big pinch of kosher salt. Stir to combine, ensuring the onions are coated in the oil. This will help them soften and caramelize.
2. Cook the onions over medium heat, stirring often. After about 10 to 15 minutes, they should start to become tender. You want them to turn a beautiful golden color, becoming sweet and caramelized.
3. Once the onions are softened, reduce the heat to low or medium-low. Continue cooking the onions for an additional 60 to 90 minutes. Stir them often, and if they begin to brown too much, add a splash of water to keep them hydrated. You’re aiming for a deep caramel color.
4. While the onions are caramelizing, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. In another pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the short cut pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. When the onions reach a golden and caramelized state, transfer them to a plate. This step is important because you will want to keep them aside while making your cheese sauce.
6. In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns golden and starts to smell nutty.
7. Slowly stream in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens. This creamy base is what makes the dish so heavenly.
8. Add in the freshly ground nutmeg, then gradually stir in most of the grated gruyere cheese until it melts and combines smoothly into the sauce.
9. Stir in about three-quarters of the caramelized onions and the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until each piece of pasta is coated in that luscious cheese sauce.
10. Transfer this delicious mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and onions on top, followed by the seasoned bread crumbs for that perfect crunch.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. The top should be crispy while the inside remains creamy.
12. Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh thyme before serving. Trust me, this adds a beautiful freshness!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this dish before baking. Just thaw and then bake it when you’re ready.
• Tip 3: Serve with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: You can prepare the cheese sauce and caramelize the onions ahead of time and assemble later.
• Tip 5: Consider adding crispy onions or herbs for a different texture.

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Meet Maya Warren

Our main recipe developer and resident forager. My passion is cooking with what the season gives us, whether it’s wild mushrooms from the woods or fresh berries from the garden. I work with Chloe to create our main dishes and with Tessa on new flavor ideas for her bakes. I love the challenge of turning a fresh, raw ingredient into something magical.