French Onion Mac and Cheese
A comforting dish that combines creamy mac and cheese with the savory sweetness of caramelized onions, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer.
Ingredients
Pasta and Onions
- 8 oz macaroni pasta Use elbow macaroni for the best texture.
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced Yellow or sweet onions work well.
Cooking Fats
- 2 tablespoons butter Unsalted butter is recommended.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor.
Cheese and Sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and Gruyère) Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses.
- 2 cups milk Whole milk works best for creaminess.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Helps to thicken the cheese sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds depth to the sauce.
- to taste salt and pepper Season according to your preference.
Topping
- as needed Breadcrumbs for topping Optional, for added crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine the milk and flour over medium heat, whisking until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper, and gradually add cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Combination and Baking
- Mix the cooked macaroni and caramelized onions into the cheese sauce until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if desired.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Serving
- Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Notes
For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon or adding a touch of white wine to the onions while they caramelize. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days.