Introduction
Indulge in the comforting blend of rich flavors with this delightful French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese. Imagine the luscious, buttery aroma of caramelized onions mingling with creamy cheese and tender pasta, all baked to golden perfection. This dish marries the classic French onion soup with the beloved mac and cheese, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings. Gather your loved ones around the table and let the warm, cheesy goodness melt away the stress of the day!
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté the onions, stirring occasionally, until they become caramelized and turn a gorgeous golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
- Add the thyme and flour to the caramelized onions, stirring well to combine. Allow this mixture to cook for an additional 2 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring this robust mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Stir in the heavy cream and remove the pot from the heat. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt if necessary, tasting to ensure it’s just right.
- Meanwhile, in a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), filling your kitchen with that wonderful warmth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, rich soup mixture, Gruyère cheese, and sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed and every piece of pasta is coated in cheesy goodness.
- Transfer the creamy mixture to a greased baking dish. For a delightful crunch, top it with breadcrumbs and sprinkle on a bit more cheese if you like.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. For a lovely finishing touch, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes or Tips
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the onions after they’ve caramelized, allowing it to reduce before adding the flour. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days; simply reheat in the oven for a quick and satisfying meal!
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfect caramelized onions is patience. Cook them slowly over medium heat to release their natural sugars and develop that rich flavor. Stirring them occasionally ensures even cooking and prevents burning. Don’t rush this step; the delicious depth of flavor is worth the wait!
FAQ
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of this comforting classic.
What kind of cheese works best?
Gruyère and sharp cheddar create a fantastic flavor combination, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like fontina or mozzarella for a different twist!
Conclusion
French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese is truly the ultimate comfort food, combining the best of both worlds in a bowl. With its velvety sauce, cheesy goodness, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish will warm your heart and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas. So, gather your family and friends, serve up this satisfying meal, and watch it disappear in no time!