Description
This French Onion Mac and Cheese combines the savory depth of caramelized onions with the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese. Perfect for weeknights or dinner parties!
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for caramelizing onions)
- 4 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound short-cut pasta (elbow, rotini, or shells work well)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for roux)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 2 ½ cups whole milk (for creaminess)
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (adds subtle warmth)
- 12 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated (melts beautifully)
- 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated (adds sharp flavor)
- ⅓ cup seasoned bread crumbs (for topping)
- Fresh thyme (for garnish)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Stir and cook for 10–15 minutes until softened.
- Reduce heat to low and cook for 60–90 minutes, stirring frequently, until onions are golden brown and caramelized.
- If onions stick, add a splash of water to deglaze.
- Transfer caramelized onions to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes until golden and nutty.
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, and cook until thickened.
- Stir in nutmeg, Gruyère, and Parmesan, reserving some cheese for topping. Mix until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients
- Stir ¾ of the caramelized onions into the cheese sauce.
- Add cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.
- Top with remaining cheese and caramelized onions.
- Bake the Dish
- Sprinkle bread crumbs over the top.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve
- Let cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve warm.
Notes
- Grate your own cheese for a smoother melt.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to save on cleanup.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including caramelizing onions)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet + Baking
- Cuisine: American