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Balsamic Caramelized Onion Mushroom Mac ‘n’ Cheese

Balsamic Caramelized Onion Mushroom Mac 'n' Cheese Bliss

Enjoy a creamy and flavorful Balsamic Caramelized Onion Mushroom Mac 'n' Cheese, perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni The perfect base, holding onto that creamy sauce beautifully.
For the Onions
  • 2 large onions thinly sliced; they sweeten as they caramelize, adding depth to your dish.
  • 3 tbsp olive oil divided; enhances flavor.
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar provides a tangy kick.
For the Mushrooms
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms sliced; adds umami flavor.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter the base for your roux.
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour thickens the sauce.
  • 3 cups milk full-fat for creaminess.
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded; the primary flavor contributor.
  • 1 cup cheddar jack cheese shredded; adds creaminess.
  • to taste salt essential for flavor.
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper essential for flavor.
For the Crunchy Topping
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs creates a delightful crispy layer.
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional; for garnish.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • large skillet
  • medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water for 7-8 minutes until al dente; drain and set aside.
  2. Caramelize the onions in a skillet with olive oil for 20-25 minutes, then add balsamic vinegar and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  3. Sauté the mushrooms in the same skillet with remaining olive oil for 5-6 minutes, then combine with onions.
  4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Make the cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk until thickened.
  6. Stir in shredded cheeses, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and fold in onion-mushroom mixture.
  8. Transfer to a greased baking dish and sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This dish can be made ahead and stored for easy meals. Excellent for freezing prior to baking.

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