French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the ultimate comfort food fusion with this French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese recipe. This creamy, cheesy delight combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and savory broth with perfectly cooked pasta, topped off with a gooey layer of melted cheese. Perfect for cozy dinners, this dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
This dish combines two beloved recipes into one unforgettable meal. The sweetness of the onions balances perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese, creating a deliciously decadent experience.
A Comforting Fusion of Flavors
French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese is a beautifully comforting dish that harmoniously blends two classic favorites into one unique culinary experience. The sweet, deeply caramelized onions bring a rich depth of flavor that elevates the creamy, cheesy goodness of the mac and cheese. This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave a blend of warmth and satisfaction, offering both heartiness and rich flavors.
The combination of broth and cheese creates a delightfully creamy texture that coats each piece of pasta perfectly. As you delve into this mac and cheese version of French onion soup, you'll appreciate the savory notes from the beef broth infused with thyme and the delightful stretch of melted cheese. It's a dish that embodies the quintessence of comfort food.
Versatile and Easy to Prepare
One of the best aspects of this French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese is its versatility. You can easily customize this dish by incorporating different types of cheese based on your preference or what you have on hand. Gouda, sharp cheddar, or even a hint of blue cheese can add distinct flavors that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
The dish also allows for various add-ins, such as cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or even bacon for an extra indulgent twist. Depending on the occasion, this recipe can be a simple weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining guests, making it a great addition to your culinary repertoire.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re looking to streamline your weeknight meals, this French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese is an excellent candidate for meal prep. It stores beautifully, whether in the refrigerator or freezer. Prepare a larger batch and divide it into individual servings to reheat for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
To reheat, simply pop the dish in the oven until warmed through, or you can use the microwave for a quicker option. This adaptability not only saves time but also ensures you always have a comforting, delicious meal ready to enjoy, making it an ideal solution for busy lifestyles.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this amazing dish:
Ingredients
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start preparing your dish. Enjoy!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese:
Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring frequently, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes.
Prepare the Broth
Add the beef broth and thyme to the caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes.
Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Combine Pasta and Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the onion and broth mixture. Stir in the Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses until well mixed.
Bake the Dish
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs if desired. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese!
Tips for Perfect Caramelized Onions
Caramelizing onions can seem intimidating, but it's a simple process that produces incredible depth of flavor. To achieve the perfect caramelization, allow the onions to cook slowly over medium heat. Resist the urge to rush; patience is key. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and do not burn, resulting in rich, golden brown, sweet-tasting onions.
For an even more complex flavor profile, you might consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of sugar to the onions during the cooking process. This will enhance their sweetness and lend a beautiful color.
Serving Suggestions
This French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the mac and cheese.
For an added touch, consider garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Not only do they add a burst of color, but they also contribute a fresh flavor that rounds out this comforting dish perfectly.
Storing and Reheating Your Dish
To store leftovers, make sure the dish has completely cooled before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days, or freeze for up to two months. If freezing, consider leaving off the breadcrumb topping until you are ready to bake it again to maintain the ideal texture.
When reheating, you can add a splash of milk to restore creaminess before warming it up. Cover the dish with foil to keep the heat in, and remove the foil for the last few minutes to allow the cheese to brown beautifully. Enjoy your delicious leftovers just like the first time!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for beef broth and use plant-based cheeses.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake before serving.
French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese
Experience the ultimate comfort food fusion with this French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese recipe. This creamy, cheesy delight combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and savory broth with perfectly cooked pasta, topped off with a gooey layer of melted cheese. Perfect for cozy dinners, this dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Created by: Freya Cooper
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring frequently, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes.
Add the beef broth and thyme to the caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the onion and broth mixture. Stir in the Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses until well mixed.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs if desired. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 30g