French Onion Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
1 lb elbow macaroni
2 large onions, thinly sliced
3 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp fresh thyme (optional)
Directions:
Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until the onions are caramelized and golden brown. Add beef broth and let simmer until reduced, about 5 minutes.
Cook Pasta: While the onions are caramelizing, cook macaroni in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Fold in the caramelized onions.
Assemble in a Baking Dish: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle with fresh thyme, if desired.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the mac and cheese for 15-20 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Allow the French Onion Mac and Cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 550 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings