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Serving of French onion mac and cheese with salad

French Onion Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Cozy Comfort Twist

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This baked French onion mac and cheese combines slow-caramelized onions with a creamy Gruyère-based cheese sauce and tender pasta. Pure comfort in every bite.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound short-cut pasta
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 12 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/3 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
  • Fresh thyme for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Caramelize onions in olive oil over low heat, stirring often, for 60–90 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Boil pasta until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, melt butter, whisk in flour to make a roux, cook for 2–3 minutes.
  4. Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth. Stir in nutmeg.
  5. Add shredded cheeses to the sauce and stir until melted.
  6. Fold in cooked pasta and 3/4 of the onions. Mix well.
  7. Transfer mixture to baking dish. Top with remaining onions, breadcrumbs, and extra cheese.
  8. Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  9. Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with thyme.

Notes

  • Make ahead tip: Assemble fully, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake before serving.
  • Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
  • Author: Anna
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 90 minutes
  • Category: comfort food
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
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