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French Onion Macaroni and Cheese

Irresistible French Onion Macaroni and Cheese You’ll Love

Savor the rich flavors of French Onion Macaroni and Cheese, a comforting twist on classic mac and cheese.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: French
Calories: 700
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Cavatappi or elbow pasta This pasta shape holds the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.
For the Onions
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter Adds luxurious richness and assists in caramelizing.
  • 2 pounds Yellow or Vidalia onions Perfect for sweetness.
  • 5 sprigs Fresh thyme Imparts aromatic notes.
  • Bay leaf Optional for depth of flavor.
  • Black pepper A sprinkle of fresh cracked pepper to elevate seasoning.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour Helps thicken the sauce.
  • 4 cups Whole milk For a creamy base.
  • 16 ounces Gruyère The star cheese for rich flavor.
  • 12 ounces White Cheddar Adds to the creaminess.
For the Topping
  • 1 clove Garlic Rub on toasted bread for flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Sherry vinegar Adds a bright contrast.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • deep skillet
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

How to Make French Onion Macaroni and Cheese
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for the pasta. Butter your baking dish if baking.
  2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and thyme, cover and cook until softened.
  3. Uncover and cook until caramelized to a rich brown, adding water if they start to burn.
  4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente.
  5. Remove herb sprigs, add sherry vinegar and scrape up bits. Stir in remaining butter and flour.
  6. Gradually whisk in milk, seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in cheeses until melted.
  7. Mix in drained pasta. Pour into baking dish, top with baguette slices and reserved cheese.
  8. Bake until bubbly and golden, about 10-15 minutes. Broil for 1-2 minutes for a crispier top.
  9. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 700kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 25gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 800mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allow onions to caramelize slowly for sweetness. Keep an eye on pasta to avoid mushiness. Use beef broth for deeper flavor if desired.

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