EASY TO COOK

🧀 French Onion Mac and Cheese Recipe 🧅

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This French Onion Mac and Cheese combines the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese with the rich, savory flavor of French onion soup. It’s a decadent and flavorful twist on a classic favorite!

📋 Ingredients:

For the French Onion Mixture:

  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced 🧅
  • 3 tablespoons butter 🧈
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil 🛢️
  • 1 teaspoon sugar 🍬
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme) 🌿
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional) 🍷
  • Salt and pepper to taste 🧂

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of your choice 🍝
  • 3 tablespoons butter 🧈
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 🌾
  • 2 cups whole milk 🥛
  • 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
  • 1 1/2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded 🧀
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 🧀
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 🌿
  • Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs 🍞
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated 🧀

📝 Instructions:

1. Make the French Onion Mixture:

  1. Caramelize the onions:
  • In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, stirring occasionally. Cook the onions slowly for about 20-25 minutes, allowing them to soften and caramelize.
  1. Add sugar and thyme:
  • Once the onions start to turn golden, add the sugar, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Stir and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the onions are a deep golden brown.
  1. Deglaze with wine (optional):
  • If using wine, pour it into the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the liquid evaporates. Set the caramelized onions aside.

2. Prepare the Pasta:

  1. Cook the pasta:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

  1. Make the roux:
  • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  1. Add milk and cream:
  • Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  1. Add the cheese and Dijon mustard:
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the Gruyère and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine and Bake:

  1. Combine the pasta, onions, and sauce:
  • Add the cooked pasta and caramelized onions to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well combined.
  1. Transfer to a baking dish:
  • Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  1. Prepare the topping:
  • In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
  1. Bake:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve:

  1. Serve and enjoy:
  • Let the French Onion Mac and Cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this rich, cheesy, and flavorful twist on a classic mac and cheese dish!

⏱️ Preparation Time: 30 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 55-60 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 6-8 servings
🔥 Calories: Approximately 500-550 kcal per serving

This French Onion Mac and Cheese is the perfect combination of creamy cheese sauce, sweet caramelized onions, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special occasion! 🧅🧀🍝